Mary Berry’s Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a wholesome, quick-cook dinner that harmoniously blends tender slices of chicken breast with the crisp vibrancy of broccoli florets, all tossed in a subtly savory and slightly sweet sauce. Unlike traditional stir-fries that may require complex layering of spices or ingredients, Mary’s version is stripped down just enough to remain comforting and accessible while still delivering a delightful depth of flavor.
This dish is not only fast and fresh – perfect for weeknight cooking – but also a balanced meal in its own right. It pairs lean protein with fiber-rich vegetables, and the light sauce brings everything together without overpowering the natural flavors. It’s a dish that feels both hearty and healthful, and it carries that hallmark of Mary Berry’s recipes: unfussy yet thoroughly enjoyable.
Mary Berry’s Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Let’s talk about the good stuff – the ingredients. They’re straightforward, pantry-friendly, and beautifully come together to create something more than the sum of their parts.
Main Ingredients
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts – thinly sliced; lean and tender, these cook quickly and absorb flavor well.
- 1 large head of broccoli – broken into florets; it adds a gorgeous green pop and stays slightly crunchy.
- 1 red bell pepper – sliced into strips; adds color and a hint of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for stir-frying; light and neutral.
- 2 garlic cloves – finely chopped or minced; a flavor base that can’t be skipped.
- 1 small piece of fresh ginger (about 1 inch) – peeled and finely grated; brings that signature zing.
For The Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – salty, umami-rich base.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – deepens the savory notes and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon runny honey – balances the saltiness with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – adds a warm, nutty finish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – mixed with a splash of water to thicken the sauce.
Optional Garnishes
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Chopped spring onions
- A wedge of lime
Equipment Needed
No need for fancy tools or high-end gadgets here! Just a few kitchen essentials:
- Wok or large non-stick frying pan – for that high-heat, quick-cook magic.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the chicken and chopping veg precisely.
- Chopping board – always important to use one for meat and another for veg, to avoid cross-contamination.
- Mixing bowl – to toss the chicken in seasoning or sauce if needed.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and flipping ingredients gently but effectively.
- Small bowl – to mix the cornstarch slurry.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Here’s how to bring this dish to life step by step.
Step 1: Prep Everything First (Mise En Place!)
Begin by slicing the chicken thinly against the grain – this ensures tenderness. Cut the broccoli into even florets, slice the red pepper into strips, and mince both the garlic and ginger. Stir fries are fast, so have all your ingredients ready to go.
Step 2: Make The Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and sesame oil. In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a tablespoon or so of water to create a slurry. You’ll add this later to thicken the sauce and give it that silky texture.
Step 3: Cook The Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and just cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry The Veggies
Add the remaining oil to the same pan. Throw in the garlic, ginger, broccoli, and red pepper. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. You want the vegetables to be brightly colored and slightly tender, but still with a crunch. If needed, splash in a little water and cover for a minute to help steam the broccoli through.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and mix well. Let it bubble for a minute, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats everything in the pan.
Step 6: Garnish And Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds, chopped spring onions, or a spritz of lime juice for brightness. This dish goes wonderfully over steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or even a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
Tips And Tricks
Want to elevate your stir fry even more? Here are some helpful tips:
- Slice the chicken thinly and evenly – thinner pieces cook faster and more uniformly.
- Blanch the broccoli briefly before stir-frying if you want it extra tender – a quick dip in boiling water helps soften it.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding lowers the heat and leads to soggy instead of seared.
- Use high heat – stir fry is all about quick, high-heat cooking that seals in flavor.
- Customize the veggies – carrots, snap peas, or baby corn also work well here.
- Marinate the chicken briefly in a splash of soy sauce and cornstarch for even more tenderness and flavor.
- Go gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check that your oyster sauce is GF.
Mary Berry’s Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is more than just a quick dinner – it’s a celebration of simplicity done right. With its medley of fresh, vibrant veggies and juicy chicken in a glossy, flavorful sauce, this dish checks every box: healthy, comforting, fast, and fabulous. Whether you’re cooking for family on a busy weekday or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this stir fry is a sure-fire crowd pleaser that doesn’t skimp on taste or style.
So grab your wok, prep your veg, and let the sizzle begin – dinner is about to be deliciously done in under 30 minutes!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry
Mary Berry’s Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is already a delightful dish, celebrated for its balance of savory, tender chicken with crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a glossy, garlicky sauce. However, one of the beauties of stir fry is its versatility. You can play with flavors, textures, and ingredients to suit your mood, what’s in your fridge, or specific dietary needs. Let’s explore some inspired variations:
1. Swap The Protein
Chicken is lean and mild, making it a natural fit-but don’t stop there.
- Beef: Thin slices of flank steak or sirloin make for a heartier twist. Just be sure to marinate the beef briefly with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a touch of oil for tenderness.
- Prawns/Shrimp: For a lighter, seafood-forward version, use peeled prawns. They cook incredibly fast and soak up stir fry sauces beautifully.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian-friendly version, opt for firm tofu. Press it well, cube it, and pan-fry until golden before tossing into the sauce.
- Tempeh or Seitan: These plant-based proteins offer an earthy, umami-rich alternative for vegan diets.
2. Add Colorful Veggies
While broccoli is the star, adding more vegetables can create a rainbow on your plate and boost nutrition.
- Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, and orange peppers not only add sweetness but also visual appeal.
- Snap Peas or Snow Peas: These bring a delightful crunch and fresh, grassy note.
- Mushrooms: Sliced shiitake, cremini, or even button mushrooms deepen the umami flavor.
- Carrots: Julienne or thinly slice for a pop of color and gentle sweetness.
- Baby Corn or Bamboo Shoots: For a more Chinese-style twist.
3. Change The Sauce Profile
Mary Berry’s version leans on a classic soy-garlic base, but sauces are where creativity truly shines.
- Add Oyster Sauce or Hoisin: These provide sweetness and a rich, dark complexity.
- Kick it Up with Chili: A spoonful of chili garlic sauce or sliced fresh red chilies gives the dish a spicy punch.
- Lemon or Orange Zest: For a citrusy lift, especially lovely in spring and summer.
- Ginger: Fresh grated ginger adds a zingy brightness that cuts through the richness.
4. Go Nuts (Literally)
A scattering of cashews or peanuts at the end adds crunch, protein, and a toasty flavor that complements the dish brilliantly.
5. Change The Base
Traditionally served over rice, but why not experiment?
- Egg Noodles or Rice Noodles: A perfect way to make it feel like a takeout treat.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option.
- Quinoa: Adds a nutty flavor and extra protein.
Storing Leftovers
Have some stir fry left? Good news: Mary Berry’s Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry stores quite well, making it a great candidate for meal prep.
Refrigerating
- How to Store: Let the stir fry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- How Long It Lasts: It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Pro Tip: Store rice separately if possible to prevent sogginess.
Reheating
- Stovetop: The best method-reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Quick and convenient, though the broccoli may soften further. Reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
- Avoid: Reheating multiple times. Only reheat the portion you plan to eat.
Freezing
You can freeze it, but note that broccoli tends to lose its texture. If freezing:
- Use freezer-safe containers.
- Label with the date.
- Use within 1 month for best texture and flavor.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry?
This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairing it thoughtfully can elevate your meal into a feast.
1. Rice And Grains
- Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy-perfect to soak up that flavorful sauce.
- Brown Rice: For a more fibrous, nutty counterpoint.
- Fried Rice: Make a simple egg fried rice with leftover rice, scallions, and soy sauce.
- Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness is divine with savory stir fry.
2. Noodles
- Egg Noodles or Udon: Their chewy texture pairs beautifully with saucy stir fry.
- Glass Noodles: For a lighter, gluten-free option.
3. Soups And Sides
- Miso Soup or Hot and Sour Soup: A warming appetizer to begin your meal.
- Spring Rolls or Potstickers: These offer a crisp texture contrast and a little indulgence on the side.
- Asian Slaw: Crunchy and refreshing, made with shredded cabbage, carrots, sesame seeds, and a rice vinegar dressing.
- Steamed Dumplings: Soft and satisfying, with a savory dipping sauce.
4. Salads And Fresh Sides
- Cucumber Salad with Rice Vinegar: Cool and crisp, perfect to offset the warmth of the stir fry.
- Kimchi or Pickled Veggies: A tangy contrast that cuts through richness.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is not just a recipe-it’s a canvas. It brings together the best of quick-cooking, healthy comfort food, and it’s endlessly customizable to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or just what you have on hand. Whether you’re throwing it together after work, dressing it up for a dinner party, or repurposing leftovers for lunch, this dish delivers on every front: flavor, ease, and satisfaction.
With a few clever variations, smart storage strategies, and tasty accompaniments, you can transform a simple stir fry into a culinary centerpiece of your weekly rotation. So get out your wok (or skillet), grab those fresh ingredients, and let Mary Berry’s timeless style inspire your next great home-cooked meal.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry?
To make Mary Berry’s chicken and broccoli stir fry, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a variety of vegetables like carrots, onions, and bell peppers. The dish also includes a sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey for sweetness. You can add sesame oil for extra flavor and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped spring onions.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry?
The preparation and cooking time for Mary Berry’s chicken and broccoli stir fry is relatively quick. It should take about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients, and another 15-20 minutes to cook the dish, depending on the size of the chicken pieces and how tender you prefer your vegetables. Altogether, you can expect the entire meal to be ready in about 30-40 minutes.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s chicken and broccoli stir fry ahead of time. However, stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the tenderness of the chicken. If you need to prep in advance, you can chop the vegetables, slice the chicken, and prepare the sauce earlier in the day. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the dish moist.
