Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Carrots – A Sweet & Savory Weeknight Winner

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If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and wholesome meal to add to your weeknight rotation, this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Carrots is the answer. Packed with lean protein, vibrant veggies, and a glossy, flavor-packed sauce, this dish is both nourishing and irresistibly tasty.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent looking for nutritious meals the whole family will love, or a food lover craving a better-than-takeout experience at home, this stir-fry is made for you. It’s fast, flexible, and better yet—prepared in just one pan. Plus, the sticky-sweet garlic sauce is good enough to bottle!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • One Pan = Less Cleanup – Everything cooks in one skillet or wok.
  • Healthy but Satisfying – High in protein, full of fiber, and low in unnecessary calories.
  • Naturally Gluten-Free Option – Just swap soy sauce for tamari.
  • Kid-Friendly Flavor – The honey garlic sauce is mild, sweet, and deliciously savory.
  • Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or proteins!

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced 🍗
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying) 🫒
  • Salt & black pepper to taste 🧂

For the Stir-Fry Vegetables:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets 🥦
  • 1 large carrot, thinly sliced or julienned 🥕
  • 1 bell pepper (optional), sliced 🫑
  • 1/2 onion, sliced (optional) 🧅

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp honey 🍯
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce) 🌾

For Garnishing:

  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Green onions, chopped (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed 🔪

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Mixing bowls (small and medium)
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Rice cooker or pot (if serving with rice)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper. Add it to the hot pan and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

2️⃣ Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary. Toss in the broccoli, carrots, and any optional veggies like bell pepper and onion. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until they are vibrant and tender-crisp—just the way stir-fried vegetables should be.

3️⃣ Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

While your vegetables cook, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil (if using), and minced garlic in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Add the slurry to your sauce to help it thicken when heated.

4️⃣ Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken and veggies.

5️⃣ Serve & Garnish

Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Recipe Notes & Tips 💡

  • Slicing Chicken Thinly – The thinner the chicken, the faster it cooks. Use a sharp knife and slice against the grain for tenderness.
  • Vegan Version? – Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and maple syrup instead of honey.
  • No Broccoli? – Substitute with snap peas, green beans, or zucchini.
  • Rice or Noodles? – Both work well. For a low-carb version, try cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles.
  • Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months, though the veggies may soften upon reheating.

To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Perfect Pairings 🍽️

Food Pairings:

  • Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice
  • Garlic Fried Rice
  • Lo Mein Noodles or Udon
  • Crispy Spring Rolls or Dumplings on the side

Drink Pairings:

  • Chilled Jasmine Tea or Iced Green Tea for a light, refreshing touch
  • A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
  • Sparkling water with lemon or lime

FAQs About Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Frozen stir-fry mixes work great in a pinch. Just be sure to sauté them a bit longer to remove excess moisture.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Both chicken breast and chicken thighs work well. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely! If you love extra saucy stir-fries or want more to drizzle over your rice, double the sauce ingredients and adjust the cornstarch slurry as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure your vinegar and cornstarch are certified gluten-free.

Can I prep this ahead?

Definitely. Slice your chicken and veggies in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. The sauce can also be mixed a day ahead.

Final Thoughts: Why You Need This Recipe in Your Life

If you’re craving a comforting, homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout, this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Carrots is it. It’s quick, versatile, and hits every note of sweet, savory, and umami with every bite. Plus, you’ll feel great knowing exactly what’s going into your dinner.

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