There’s something so satisfying about a one-pan meal, don’t you think? This One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is one of my go-to dinners when I’m in a hurry but craving something hearty and nutritious. I absolutely love whipping this up, especially after a long day at work, when the thought of a complicated meal feels more overwhelming than appealing.
This dish brings back memories of my college days when I would experiment with different recipes, trying to impress my friends with my “chef” skills. Spoiler alert: they were all impressed (or at least pretended to be)! What makes this stir-fry unique is its vibrant flavors combined with the simplicity of preparation. Plus, the tender chicken paired with crunchy broccoli is a match made in heaven!
What’s in One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Ground Chicken: This lean meat is the star of the dish, providing a good source of protein. I often go for organic ground chicken whenever I can. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully.
Broccoli: Not only does broccoli add a beautiful pop of color, but it’s also packed with vitamins K and C. Buy fresh broccoli if you can, but frozen works in a pinch!
Soy Sauce: A key ingredient for infusing that savory flavor into the dish. I typically use low-sodium soy sauce to keep things healthier.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger give a punchy, aromatic backdrop to this stir-fry. I can’t stress enough how fresh these ingredients make a difference!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor and enhances the stir-fry’s overall aroma. I prefer toasted sesame oil as it has a richer taste.
Bell Peppers: I love tossing colorful bell peppers into the mix for their crunch and sweetness. Red, yellow, or orange, whatever you have on hand!
Green Onions: These not only garnish the dish beautifully but also add a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements everything else.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the stir-fry on a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. I usually opt for brown rice for added fiber!
Is One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only delicious but also quite healthy.
Ground Chicken: It’s a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Opting for lean ground chicken helps keep the fat content in check.
Broccoli: This superfood boosts your immune system and provides antioxidants. It’s also great for digestion due to its fiber content.
Garlic and Ginger: Both of these ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties, and ginger can help with digestion. Who knew something so tasty could also be so good for you?
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of how much soy sauce you use. You can always dilute it with a little water or add extra spices instead.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 3 green onions, chopped
– 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
This recipe serves about 4 people.
How to Make One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
1. Begin by heating a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil and let it warm up.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s browned and no longer pink.
4. Once the chicken is cooked through, add the broccoli and sliced bell pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, continuing to stir for another minute until everything is well-coated.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and give it one last toss.
Elevate Your Stir-Fry Game!
– Feel free to add other veggies like snap peas or carrots for a colorful medley.
– Want a little heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce when cooking.
– If you’re not a fan of ground chicken, this recipe works just as well with ground turkey or even tofu for a plant-based twist.
I hope you give this One-Pan Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry a try! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, and I can almost guarantee your family will be asking for seconds. Let me know how it turns out or if you come up with any fun variations! Happy cooking!
