High Protein Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry (Fast, Flavorful, and Protein-Packed)
Samantha
This high protein shrimp and broccoli stir fry is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—lean, clean, fast, and full of flavor. With over 35g of protein per serving and minimal carbs, it’s a satisfying and guilt-free choice that fits low-carb, gluten-free, paleo, and Whole30 lifestyles. Ready in just 25 minutes, this one-pan stir fry is perfect for busy nights, post-workout meals, or make-ahead lunch prep. It’s a colorful, nutrient-dense favorite your whole family will love.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Dinner
Cuisine Asian-Inspired, Healthy
Servings 4 servings
Calories 310 kcal
- 1 lb raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 heads broccoli cut into florets
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water optional, for thickening
- Sea salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prep IngredientsRinse and pat shrimp dry. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince garlic and ginger. Step 2: Stir Fry BroccoliHeat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add broccoli and stir fry for 4–5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and set aside. Step 3: Sauté ShrimpAdd remaining oil to the pan. Toss in shrimp and season lightly with salt and pepper. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Step 4: Add SauceReturn broccoli to pan. Add garlic, ginger, coconut aminos, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly. Simmer 2–3 minutes. Step 5: Optional ThickeningIf desired, stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute to thicken the sauce. Step 6: ServeServe warm with optional toppings: sliced scallions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime.
Secret Tips for Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
1. Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before tossing the shrimp in the pan, pat them completely dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better and prevents them from steaming—giving you that irresistible golden exterior.
2. Flash-Cook the Broccoli: To keep broccoli vibrant and slightly crisp, stir fry it over high heat for no more than 3–4 minutes. Or steam it for 60 seconds before adding to the skillet for a perfectly tender-crisp texture.
3. Use a Carbon Steel or Cast Iron Skillet: If you want real stir fry flavor without a wok, a hot carbon steel or cast iron skillet mimics the heat intensity of restaurant woks and helps develop that smoky “wok hei” flavor.
4. Add the Sauce at the End: Always wait until the shrimp and broccoli are nearly done before pouring in the sauce. This keeps the flavors bold and helps prevent overcooked, soggy vegetables.
5. Double the Sauce for Rice Bowls: If you’re serving this over jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles, double the stir fry sauce. It ensures you’ve got enough to coat everything generously and adds more flavor without extra cooking time.
6. Add a Citrus Pop: Finish the dish with a quick squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving. The acid brightens everything and elevates the savory garlic-ginger sauce.
7. Marinate the Shrimp for 10 Minutes: If you’ve got a few extra minutes, toss the shrimp in a little coconut aminos, garlic, and ginger before cooking. It infuses extra flavor straight into the protein.Keyword clean_eating_shrimp_recipe, gluten_free_shrimp_recipes, healthy_shrimp_broccoli_dinner, high_protein_shrimp_recipe, low_carb_shrimp_stir_fry, low_sodium_shrimp_dinner, quick_healthy_shrimp_stirfry, shrimp_meal_prep_ideas
