Before we dive into the delicious details of chicken vegetable stir fry, let’s talk about the perfect sides to enhance your meal. Fluffy and fragrant jasmine rice absorbs all the savory sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. For a healthier twist, nutty brown rice adds depth with its chewy texture.
Quinoa, packed with protein, offers a slightly crunchy alternative that complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer noodles, options like chow mein or rice noodles make for a hearty, satisfying pairing. To lighten things up, a fresh salad with a tangy dressing provides the perfect contrast to the stir fry’s rich flavors.
Now, let’s get into the heart of this recipe!
Nothing beats the convenience of a one-pan meal, right? When I think about quick, hearty dinners, chicken vegetable stir fry tops the list. It harmonizes flavors, fuels your body, and doesn’t require sensing endless dishes.
A colorful medley of vegetables mingling with tender chicken makes for a vibrant dinner you can whip up in no time.
Whether you’ve had a long day or just want to impress someone special, this dish is a winner. It’s from my collection of easy health-conscious recipes that not only tickle the taste buds but also pack a nutritional punch.
What is Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry?
Chicken vegetable stir fry is a quick cooking method that originated from Asia, characterized by high heat, minimal oil, and fast movement.
You’ll find tender chicken pieces mixed with a variety of vegetables, all cooked in a light sauce. The vegetables retain their crunchiness while absorbing great flavors.
What’s so great about this dish is the simplicity. Each ingredient shines. You have the protein from the chicken and a myriad of colors from the veggies, which add essential nutrients. It’s a one-stop meal that’s not just for dinner, either.
Leftovers can be a meal for lunch, and if you’re like me, you love the idea of a prep-ahead meal that keeps on giving.
How Does It Taste Like?
Picture this: the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables, the tenderness of perfectly cooked chicken, and a savory sauce that makes each bite better than the last. The garlic imparts warmth, while ginger adds a little zing that dances on your palate.
Plus, a splash of soy sauce brings that umami flavor that adds complexity.
If you enjoy a touch of heat, you can always sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Each flavor component comes together beautifully, making this dish not just food, but an experience.
Why You’ll Love This?
Here are some reasons this chicken vegetable stir fry will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals:
Quick and Easy: You can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes. That’s less time than it takes to order takeout!
Healthy: With lean protein and vibrant vegetables, it’s loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Customizable: Switch up the veggies or protein based on what you have or what you love. There’s no wrong combination.
Flavorful: It’s packed with flavor thanks to the spices and sauces.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week. It stays tasty in the fridge.
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need for a delicious chicken vegetable stir fry:
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 6 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dry sherry wine
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds and quartered
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped into chunks
- 1 cup broccoli florets, separated into smaller pieces
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 6 green onions, sliced
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Don’t rush! A sharp knife can save you time and effort. In a bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well coated. This will give it a nice skin when cooked.
Step 2: Heat the Oils
In a large wok or non-stick skillet, heat the sesame oil and canola oil over medium-high heat. You want the oils shimmering but not smoking. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces into the hot oil in a single layer. Allow it to sizzle without stirring for about 3-4 minutes. This method can give you a better sear. Then, stir until browned and no longer pink, about another 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Easy so far, right?
Step 4: Cook the Aromatics
Add a touch more oil if necessary, then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; you want savory, not bitter.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Throw in the zucchini, green bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they are vibrant and just tender. They should keep a little crunch.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sherry. Stir everything to combine. This will create a flavorful sauce, coating all the ingredients. Allow it all to bubble for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Add Green Onions
Finally, toss in sliced green onions. They add freshness at the end and a pop of color. Remove from the heat.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately, preferably hot over steamed rice or noodles. Don’t forget to look at the vibrant colors, each bite is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Tips On Making Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry
Here are some handy tips for perfecting your stir fry:
- Prep Ingredients Beforehand: It’s quick, and everything cooks really fast. Get those veggies chopped and chicken cubed before starting.
- Use High Heat: This helps to cook everything quickly and evenly while retaining the crunchiness of the vegetables.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try adding hoisin or oyster sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy the stir fry immediately for the best taste and texture. Leftovers are great, but the first bite is unbeatable.
How Do You Store This Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry?
Storing leftovers is simple:
- Refrigerate: Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, a microwave works perfectly. Stir well to ensure even heating.
- Freeze: Want to keep it longer? Freeze the stir fry. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer bags or containers, where it can last for about a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry?
Got a few different ingredients on hand? Here are some substitutions you can try:
- Chicken: Shrimp or Tofu. Both are excellent alternatives. Shrimp cooks quickly, and tofu absorbs the surrounding flavors well.
- Vegetables: Snow Peas. They offer a sweet crunch. Toss them in towards the end to keep their vibrant color.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari. This works perfectly for a gluten-free version and provides similar savory depth.
- Sesame Oil: Peanut Oil. It has a slightly different flavor but still gives a nice finish to the dish.
- Green Onions: Chives or Shallots. Both can add a fresh touch. Use as a same size for best results.
Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
Equipment
- sharp knife
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 6 oz boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 tbsp ginger grated
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dry sherry wine
- 1 medium zucchini sliced into rounds and quartered
- 1 large green bell pepper chopped into chunks
- 1 cup broccoli florets separated into smaller pieces
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 6 green onions sliced
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Don’t rush! A sharp knife can save you time and effort. In a bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well coated. This will give it a nice skin when cooked.
- In a large wok or non-stick skillet, heat the sesame oil and canola oil over medium-high heat. You want the oils shimmering but not smoking. This is where the magic begins!
- Add the chicken pieces into the hot oil in a single layer. Allow it to sizzle without stirring for about 3-4 minutes. This method can give you a better sear. Then, stir until browned and no longer pink, about another 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Easy so far, right?
- Add a touch more oil if necessary, then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; you want savory, not bitter.
- Throw in the zucchini, green bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they are vibrant and just tender. They should keep a little crunch.
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sherry. Stir everything to combine. This will create a flavorful sauce, coating all the ingredients. Allow it all to bubble for about 2-3 minutes.
- Finally, toss in sliced green onions. They add freshness at the end and a pop of color. Remove from the heat.
- Serve immediately, preferably hot over steamed rice or noodles. Don’t forget to look at the vibrant colors, each bite is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Notes
- Prep Ingredients Beforehand: It’s quick, and everything cooks really fast. Get those veggies chopped and chicken cubed before starting.
- Use High Heat: This helps to cook everything quickly and evenly while retaining the crunchiness of the vegetables.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try adding hoisin or oyster sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy the stir fry immediately for the best taste and texture. Leftovers are great, but the first bite is unbeatable.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In closing, chicken vegetable stir fry is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to better weeknight meals. It’s healthy, quick, and absolutely delicious. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with rice, the flavors blend beautifully, proving that simplicity can be exceptionally rewarding.
It’s favored by health-conscious individuals and busy families alike. With this guide, you can create a dish that suits your lifestyle and puts a smile on everyone’s faces. So, roll up those sleeves and give it a try. I promise it’ll be worth it!
