If you’re craving a wholesome, colorful meal that comes together quickly and feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and perfectly steamed broccoli, all paired with fluffy white rice, it balances comfort and nutrition effortlessly. This dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a dance of flavors and textures that’s satisfying from the very first bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with a loved one, this recipe will become your go-to weeknight favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s vibrant, tasty, and satisfying. The simplicity of each item highlights fresh flavors without overwhelming your taste buds.
- 150g chicken breast: Lean and tender, it’s the star protein that soaks up all those wonderful seasonings.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds a burst of color and natural sweetness to brighten up the stir-fry.
- 1 carrot: Thinly sliced for a subtle crunch and mild, sweet earthiness.
- 1 tsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and vegetables without overpowering them.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives just the right garlic punch to infuse the dish with comforting aroma.
- Dried herbs or Italian seasoning: Adds depth and a touch of herbal freshness to balance the flavors.
- 1 cup uncooked white rice: The perfect fluffy base to soak up all the delicious juices.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Steamed to bright green perfection, adding nutrition and a slight crunch.
How to Make Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fluffy Rice
Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water until it runs clear; this step removes excess starch to keep your rice light and fluffy. Then, combine the rinsed rice with water and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring it to a boil, cover tightly, then reduce the heat to simmer gently for about 12 to 15 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid! This quiet cooking stage is what makes your rice beautifully tender and perfectly separated.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the rice simmers, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast strips and let them cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes until they begin to turn golden on one side. Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juicy. This flavorful base sets the tone for the entire stir-fry.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Into the skillet with chicken, add thinly sliced carrots and red bell pepper along with garlic powder, dried herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together vigorously for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly but remain crisp and vibrant. This step adds contrast in texture and a fresh pop of sweetness that ties the dish together.
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
While your stir-fry finishes, place fresh broccoli florets in a steamer basket set over boiling water. Cover and steam for 4 to 5 minutes until the broccoli turns a bright, appetizing green and is just tender. Steaming preserves the broccoli’s nutrients and creates a pleasing bite that balances the stir-fry.
Step 5: Plate and Serve
Finally, plate your golden chicken and vegetable stir-fry alongside a mound of fluffy white rice, adding the steamed broccoli on the side. The vibrant colors and inviting textures make it a meal that looks as good as it tastes. This Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh green onions for an attractive finish that adds subtle crunch and additional flavor layers to your Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe.
Side Dishes
While this dish is complete on its own, a crisp cucumber salad or a simple miso soup can complement its warmth and textural contrast, elevating your meal experience with minimal extra effort.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the stir-fry in individual bowls with the rice molded into neat domes using small bowls. Drizzle a little soy sauce or a homemade chili garlic sauce around the plate edges to wow your guests visually and gastronomically when sharing the Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The freshness and flavors remain mostly intact, making next-day meals just as delightful.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. Portion the stir-fry and rice separately into freezer-safe bags or containers. For best texture, consume within 2 months. To thaw, leave overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave them, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice fluffy and the chicken moist. Stir occasionally to warm evenly without drying out the vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, though it requires a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust cooking accordingly for the best fluffy results.
What can I substitute for garlic powder?
Fresh minced garlic works wonderfully too—just sauté it briefly with the chicken to release its aroma. If you want a milder taste, garlic powder is easier to control.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe is perfect for prepping ahead. It reheats well and keeps you fueled with wholesome ingredients throughout the week.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn to mix things up. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep veggies crisp-tender.
How do I keep the chicken tender?
Cook chicken over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan so it sears nicely instead of steaming. Also, cutting it into uniform thin strips helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something incredibly comforting and flavorful. It’s easy enough to whip up any night but impressive enough to share. Give it a try and let it become a staple in your kitchen — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Broccoli & Fluffy Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and healthy Chicken Stir-Fry served with steamed broccoli and fluffy white rice. This nutritious dish combines tender chicken breast, crisp bell peppers, and carrots, all stir-fried with aromatic garlic and herbs for a flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 150g chicken breast, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Rice
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- Water (amount as per rice cooking instructions, approx. 2 cups)
- Salt, to taste
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Dried herbs or Italian seasoning, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 12-15 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, red bell pepper, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the chicken. Stir-fry everything together for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still retain some bite.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the stir-fry cooks, place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket set over boiling water. Cover and steam for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender but not mushy.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and vegetable stir-fry alongside the fluffy white rice and steamed broccoli for a balanced and wholesome meal.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking when cooking chicken and vegetables.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Ensure broccoli is steamed just until tender to keep its vibrant color and crunch.
