Zesty Citrus Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a quick, flavorful dish, this Zesty Citrus Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is your go-to. It brings together the bright flavors of citrus with the savory goodness of a classic stir fry, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Zesty Citrus Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

The star of the show is the chicken breast, which is lean and takes on the flavors beautifully. The broccoli florets add a nice crunch and a pop of green color. Red bell pepper not only adds a sweet note but also a splash of vibrant red. Garlic and ginger are the aromatics that elevate the dish with warmth and depth. The orange juice and lemon juice blend to give the sauce its signature zesty kick, while soy sauce adds umami richness. Honey balances out the tang with a touch of sweetness. Finally, cornstarch and water are used to thicken the sauce, creating that glossy finish everyone loves.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure your chicken is sliced thinly for quick and even cooking.
  • Prep all ingredients before starting to cook — stir fry is fast-paced!
  • Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor.
  • If you like more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger.

Serving Suggestions

This stir fry is delightful over a bed of steamed rice or your favorite noodles. Consider topping it with some chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness. A squeeze of lime just before serving can also enhance the citrus notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain juicy.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos if you prefer a soy-free alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Zesty Citrus Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe Walkthrough

Begin by preparing your sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set it aside for later.

Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the pan. Season with salt and pepper, and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, pour in the remaining olive oil. Toss in the garlic and ginger, letting them sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This step is key as it infuses the oil with their flavors.

Add the broccoli florets and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them cooked but still vibrant and slightly crunchy.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the citrus sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to thicken, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once the sauce has coated everything beautifully, it's ready to serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Fresh, vibrant flavors from citrus and vegetables.
  • Quick to make — ready in under 30 minutes!
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely already have.
  • Perfectly balanced sweet and savory sauce.
  • Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and water. Mix well and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add broccoli florets and red bell pepper to the skillet, stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the citrus sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

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