A 20-Minute Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Stir-Fry You’ll Actually Crave

It’s 5:30 PM. You’re tired, you’re hungry, and the last thing you want to do is spend an hour in the kitchen making a complicated meal.

We’ve all been there. That’s why having a recipe that is quick, nutritious, and genuinely delicious is an absolute game-changer.

This chicken sausage and broccoli stir-fry is exactly that. It’s a complete meal made in one pan, loaded with protein and fiber, and coated in a simple homemade sauce that will make you forget all about ordering takeout.

As a Registered Dietitian, I’m always looking for meals that tick all the boxes for health and convenience, much like I do when analyzing popular grocery store items, and this one has become a staple in my own home.

Why Is This Stir-Fry a Weeknight Hero?

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this simple stir-fry. First, it’s incredibly fast—we’re talking from fridge to table in about 20 minutes.

The cleanup is just as easy, thanks to the one-pan approach. But beyond convenience, it’s a nutritional powerhouse.

Each serving is designed to be a balanced meal, providing high-quality protein to keep you full and fiber-rich vegetables to support digestive health. The combination of protein and fiber is key for satiety, which means you’ll feel satisfied and energized long after you’ve finished eating.

Is Chicken Sausage Actually a Healthy Choice?

That’s a fair question, especially with so much talk about processed meats. The key is to be a savvy shopper.

Many modern chicken sausages are made with lean chicken, simple spices, and minimal processing, making them a fantastic source of protein. When choosing a brand, I recommend reading the label.

Look for sausages with low sodium content, no added nitrates or nitrites, and a short, recognizable ingredient list. According to health experts at the Cleveland Clinic, opting for sausages made from poultry and checking for lower saturated fat and sodium levels can make them a solid part of a healthy diet.

This recipe leverages that lean protein to help build and repair tissues and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

The Secret to Perfectly Crisp-Tender Broccoli

The biggest complaint about stir-fried broccoli is that it can turn sad and mushy. The trick to avoiding this is a simple steam-fry technique.

By adding just a couple of tablespoons of water to the hot pan and covering it immediately, you create a burst of steam that quickly cooks the broccoli to a vibrant, crisp-tender state without boiling it. This method also helps preserve its nutrients.

As the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health notes, broccoli is packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, and this gentle cooking method helps keep those benefits intact.

After a couple of minutes, you uncover the pan to let any excess water evaporate, ensuring the broccoli stays perfectly tender and ready to soak up the sauce.

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

This recipe relies on just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s your shopping list:

• Chicken Sausage: One 11-12 oz. package of pre-cooked chicken sausage. A roasted garlic or mild Italian flavor works wonderfully here.
• Broccoli: About 4-5 cups of fresh broccoli florets. You can buy pre-chopped florets to save time.
• Carrots: One cup of matchstick carrots adds a touch of sweetness and color. Shredded carrots also work, but will be softer.
• Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon for sautéing.
• For Serving: Your choice of brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.

For the Simple Stir-Fry Sauce:

• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons. You can also use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos.
• Honey: 3 tablespoons for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Fresh Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Don’t skimp on the fresh garlic!
• Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon to create that thick, glossy sauce that clings to every bite.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, added at the end for a bright, fresh finish.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Stir-Fry Success

Follow these simple steps for a perfect stir-fry every time.

1. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the minced garlic and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, letting it get nicely browned on one side without moving it.
3. Steam-Fry the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pan with the sausage. Stir once, then add 2 tablespoons of water and immediately cover the pan with a lid. Let it steam for 2-3 minutes. This is when the broccoli becomes perfectly crisp-tender.
4. Add Carrots and Sauce: Uncover the skillet and add the matchstick carrots. Sauté for one minute to soften them slightly. Then, give your sauce a final stir and pour it all over the ingredients in the pan.
5. Thicken and Serve: Stir everything continuously for 1-2 minutes as the sauce bubbles and thickens, coating the sausage and vegetables. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately over a bed of hot rice or quinoa.

Smart Ways to Serve and Store Your Stir-Fry

While this stir-fry is fantastic over a simple bed of fluffy brown rice, don’t hesitate to get creative. For a lower-carb meal, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

For a heartier option, try it with whole-wheat noodles or quinoa, which adds another layer of protein and nutrients. Leftovers are one of the best parts of this dish!

To store, let the stir-fry cool completely and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. According to food safety guidelines from the USDA, properly stored leftovers are good for up to 3-4 days.

This makes it a perfect option for meal prep—cook once and enjoy healthy lunches for the next few days.

Easy Variations to Keep Things Interesting

This recipe is a great template for whatever you have in your fridge. Here are a few dietitian-approved variations:

• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers (any color!), snap peas, mushrooms, or sliced onions would all be delicious additions. Add them with the carrots.
• Make It Spicy: Whisk 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce into your sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
• Try Different Proteins: No chicken sausage? This works great with shrimp, thinly sliced chicken breast, or even a pound of ground turkey. If you’re looking for another simple chicken meal, the easiest slow cooker BBQ chicken is another fantastic option for a busy weeknight.
• Go Nutty: Top the finished dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped cashews for a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats.

Conclusion

In the time it takes to decide on a takeout order, you can have this vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying chicken sausage and broccoli stir-fry on your dinner table. It’s more than just a quick meal; it’s a smart and delicious way to nourish your body without adding stress to your day.

Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a trusted favorite in your weeknight rotation.