Turn Leftover Leftover Chicken and Broccoli Into Dinner Tonight
A few pantry staples transform yesterday's proteins into something worth looking forward to.
Leftover chicken and broccoli sit in your fridge like a question waiting for an answer. The good news: they're the foundation of something genuinely delicious, not a compromise meal. With rice as your anchor and a handful of simple additions, you can build something that feels intentional—the kind of dinner you'd actually choose to make.
Quick Chicken and Broccoli Fried Rice
A simple, flavorful stir-fry combining leftover chicken and fresh broccoli with rice, seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and ginger for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old, cooled)
- 1 cup leftover chicken, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add diced chicken and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add rice, breaking up any clumps, and cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring.
- Pour soy sauce and water over the mixture, toss well to combine.
- Season with black pepper and salt to taste, cook for 1 minute more.
- Serve immediately while hot.
This is just one option. Want to create your own recipe?
Customize the ingredients or generate a recipe built entirely from what you already have.
Build My RecipeQuick Variations
Lighter Option
Keep portions modest and let fresh herbs and citrus brighten the dish. A squeeze of lemon or lime and plenty of green onion can make the whole thing feel spring-like and fresh.
Hearty Option
Stir in cream, butter, or a savory sauce to turn this into something more indulgent. A touch of soy sauce, sesame oil, or even a creamy garlic element transforms it into comfort food.
Vegetarian or Flexible Option
Double the broccoli and add tofu, chickpeas, or white beans for protein instead. Mushrooms also bring umami and substance when you're skipping the chicken.
Simple Substitutions
Protein Substitutes
- Shredded turkey
- Flaked salmon or white fish
- Tofu or tempeh
- Chickpeas or white beans
- Ground turkey or beef
- Shrimp
Carb Substitutes
- Cauliflower rice
- Quinoa
- Pasta or noodles
- Couscous
- Millet
- Farro
Flavor Boosters
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Sesame oil
- Fresh ginger and garlic
- Lemon or lime juice
- Coconut milk
- Hot sauce or chili flakes
Common Questions
How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?
Add it toward the end of cooking or warm it gently with the other components rather than simmering it long. If the broccoli is already soft from its first cooking, a quick toss through heat is all it needs.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes—it keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and actually tastes better as flavors meld. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
What if my leftover chicken is dry?
A flavorful sauce or a bit of broth will revive it beautifully. The rice will also absorb moisture, making the chicken feel more tender when everything comes together.