How to Make Chicken Stir Fry: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe
Chicken stir fry is a quick, versatile, and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a nutritious meal packed with vibrant flavors. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce, this recipe is a one-pan wonder that delivers bold taste without much fuss. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make a chicken stir fry that’s as tasty as your favorite takeout, but healthier and customizable to your liking.
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Keyword: chicken, stir fry, vegetables
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 343kcal
Ingredients You’ll Need
To serve 4 people, gather the following:
For the Stir Fry:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For the Sauce:
¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (optional, for thickening)
Optional Garnishes:
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Red chili flakes
Optional Side Dish:
Cooked rice, noodles, or quinoa
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken into thin strips to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly.
Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
Pro Tip: For easier slicing, freeze the chicken for 15–20 minutes before cutting.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
Keep harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli separate from softer ones like zucchini and bell peppers, as they’ll require different cooking times.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce. Set aside.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Swirl the oil around to coat the pan evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken strips to the hot pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 6: Stir Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the broccoli and carrots first, cooking for 2–3 minutes, as they take longer to soften.
Stir in the bell peppers and zucchini, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Step 7: Combine and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, mixing it with the vegetables.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 1–2 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Remove the stir fry from heat and serve immediately over cooked rice, noodles, or quinoa.
Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or red chili flakes for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Tips for the Best Chicken Stir Fry
Use a Hot Pan: A hot skillet or wok ensures the ingredients cook quickly and develop a slight char, enhancing flavor.
Cut Ingredients Uniformly: Ensure all vegetables and chicken pieces are similar in size to promote even cooking.
Prep Everything Beforehand: Stir fry cooking moves fast, so have all your ingredients prepped and within arm’s reach.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in mushrooms, snap peas, baby corn, or any vegetables you love or have on hand.
Adjust the Spice: Add red chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chili to the sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken stir fry is not only quick and easy but also endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. With its vibrant colors, tender chicken, and bold flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
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