For a fast, healthy, and tasty dinner, try this chicken stir fry recipe. This dish has tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a tasty stir fry sauce. It’s quicker than takeout and ready in just 30 minutes.
This stir fry is simple to customize, whether you’re cooking a weeknight meal or prepping for the week. Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—faster than ordering takeout!
Healthy: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
Customizable: Use your favorite veggies, sauces, or proteins.
Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or on its own.
Best Chicken for Stir Fry
For the best stir fry, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
Chicken Breast: Leaner and firmer, perfect for a lighter stir fry.
Chicken Thighs: Juicier and more flavorful, great for extra tenderness.
Rotisserie Chicken: A quick shortcut if you’re short on time!
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Stir Fry
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced into thin strips)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, sliced)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup carrots (julienned or sliced)
½ cup snap peas
½ cup mushrooms (sliced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
½ teaspoon salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Stir Fry Sauce
¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce (adds deep umami flavor)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (adds sweetness)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (for a nutty flavor)
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Make Chicken Stir Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice chicken breasts or thighs into thin strips.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, honey, and cornstarch.
Set aside.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another ½ tablespoon oil if needed.
Add garlic and ginger, then cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms.
Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
Pour in the stir fry sauce and toss everything together.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions.
Serve hot over rice, noodles, or on its own.
Best Vegetables for Stir Fry
Want to switch up the veggies? Here are some great options:
Zucchini – Adds a soft, juicy texture.
Baby Corn – Gives a mild sweetness.
Water Chestnuts – Crunchy and refreshing.
Cabbage – Adds a slight crisp and sweetness.
Spinach or Kale – Great for extra nutrients.
Protein Variations for Stir Fry
Beef Stir Fry: Use thinly sliced flank steak.
Shrimp Stir Fry: Use peeled, deveined shrimp.
Tofu Stir Fry: Cube and stir-fry for a vegetarian version.
Pork Stir Fry: Use thin pork tenderloin slices.
What to Serve with Chicken Stir Fry
Steamed Rice: Classic and simple.
Fried Rice: Adds extra flavor.
Lo Mein Noodles: Toss the stir fry with cooked noodles.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option.
Tips for the Best Chicken Stir Fry
Use a Hot Pan: Stir frying works best at high heat.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed.
Slice Chicken Thinly: Helps it cook evenly and quickly.
Keep Veggies Crisp: Don’t overcook them!
How to Store & Reheat Chicken Stir Fry
Refrigerating
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or soy sauce over medium heat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 12g
Sodium: 500mg
FAQs
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and serve with rice or gluten-free noodles.
How Do I Make It Spicy?
Add sriracha, chili flakes, or extra ginger.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Yes! Just add it at the end to heat through.
Conclusion
This chicken stir fry is the ideal weeknight meal. It’s quick, tasty, and very healthy. You can make it spicy, sweet, or extra saucy. It’s fully customizable and tastes better than takeout.