Oh, where do I even begin with this One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry? It’s honestly one of those dishes that reigns supreme in my kitchen. Not only is it a flavorful, vibrant medley that comes together in a flash, but it also holds a treasure trove of memories for me. I first discovered this recipe during one of my whirlwind weeks at college when a friend and I decided to host a mini cooking night. With limited time and an even more limited budget, we whipped this tasty stir-fry together, and let’s just say, the leftovers didn’t last long!
Fast forward to today, and it’s still a weekly staple. I love the simplicity of making it all in one pan—hello, less dish-washing! Plus, it’s an awesome way to sneak in some veggies and keep things healthy without skimping on flavor. Trust me, this dish will have you hooked from the first bite, and it’s incredibly easy to customize. So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!
What’s in One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Ground Chicken: The star of the show! It’s lean and cooks up quickly, making it a go-to protein for a busy weeknight meal. I often opt for organic ground chicken if it’s within my budget, but any kind will do!
Broccoli: This green veggie provides not only a crunchy texture but also a wealth of nutrients like vitamins C and K. Fresh is always best, but frozen broccoli works perfectly when fresh isn’t an option.
Garlic: A couple of cloves of minced garlic add that aromatic depth. I can’t help but adore the rich, savory smell that wafts through the kitchen when it starts to sizzle!
Ginger: Fresh ginger is amazing for a bit of warmth and spice. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort if you can find it! If not, ground ginger can work in a pinch.
Soy Sauce: This salty, umami-packed liquid ties everything together. I prefer low-sodium soy sauce so I can control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil at the end really elevates this dish with a nutty aroma. It’s the kind of finishing touch that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Bell Peppers: I usually toss in whatever color bell pepper I have; they add some sweetness and color. Plus, they’re a great source of vitamin C!
Rice or Noodles: Depending on what you’re in the mood for, you can serve this stir-fry over rice or toss in some noodles to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Is One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This dish is definitely on the healthier side without sacrificing taste.
Ground Chicken: It’s a fabulous source of lean protein which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Broccoli: This green powerhouse is a superfood! Not only is it low in calories, but it also provides fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you balanced.
Garlic and Ginger: Both of these ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties and are known for boosting the immune system. I love throwing in extra garlic because, why not?
The only thing to watch out for is the sodium content—especially if you use regular soy sauce. Just be mindful, and opt for low-sodium when possible!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground chicken (organic, if possible)
– 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, minced (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
– 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (about 2 cups)
– Cooking oil for sautéing (canola, vegetable, or olive oil)
This recipe will serve about 4 people—perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week!
How to Make One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
1. Heat about 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Toss in the broccoli and bell pepper, stirring everything together. Cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
5. Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to combine everything. Let it cook for an additional minute to warm through.
6. Serve the stir-fry over rice or mix in some noodles, and enjoy!
Stir-Fry Secrets and Variations
If you want to mix things up, try swapping out the ground chicken for ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute for those meatless Mondays! Feel free to play with the vegetables; snap peas, carrots, or even zucchini can add a nice twist.
For an extra flavor kick, I sometimes sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of Sriracha can bring some spice to the table!
I can’t tell you how much I hope you give this One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry a whirl. It’s made its way into my heart (and my weekly meal rotation) and I think it might just do the same for you. Share with me how yours turns out, or any fun twists you decide to add! Happy cooking!
