Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
If you’re craving a vibrant and satisfying meal that comes together quickly, this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. Packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce that hits every note, it’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this stir fry balances fresh textures and bold flavors effortlessly to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients strike the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor, each playing an essential role in creating the perfect stir fry experience. From the tender chicken to the colorful veggies, every element adds its own magic.
- Chicken breast (1 lb): Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a deep umami flavor and helps tenderize the chicken in the marinade.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Gives the chicken a silky coating that keeps it juicy and locks in flavor.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Ideal for high-heat cooking to stir fry everything perfectly without burning.
- Bell pepper (1, sliced): Provides vibrant color and a sweet crunch that elevates the dish.
- Broccoli florets (1 cup): Adds a satisfying bite and boosts the nutrition game with its hearty green goodness.
- Snap peas (1 cup): Bring fresh snap and a hint of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Carrot (1, thinly sliced): Offers subtle sweetness and a beautiful orange pop on the plate.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the dish with fragrant warmth and depth.
- Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced): Adds zing and a touch of brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Helps create a luscious sauce that ties all the flavors together.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings a savory-sweet umami punch that makes every bite irresistible.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the stir fry sauce.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Offers a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to add a gentle kick without overpowering the balance.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish, sprinkling these on top adds a lovely texture and nutty finish.
- Green onions (sliced): Fresh and crisp garnish that brings a bright, herbal note to the final plate.
How to Make Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing the thinly sliced chicken breast in soy sauce and cornstarch. This simple marinade is the secret to juicy chicken with a silky coating that soaks up all the delicious flavors later on.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the marinated chicken until it’s cooked through and lightly golden, then transfer it to a plate and set aside. This quick sear locks in moisture and creates a fantastic texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry these until they’re tender yet still crisp—that perfect “crunch” is what makes a great stir fry stand out.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Now, add the minced garlic and ginger to the veggies. Stir-fry for just a minute or two until their fragrance fills your kitchen — it’s one of those moments where you know the dish is coming together beautifully.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then pour in the chicken broth, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir everything well and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats every delicious morsel.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Chicken Stir Fry Recipe by scattering sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top. These simple garnishes add color, texture, and a fresh flavor kick that completes this vibrant dish.
How to Serve Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions takes this stir fry to the next level visually and flavor-wise. You can also experiment with a drizzle of extra sesame oil or a few cilantro leaves for a herby touch.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Stir Fry Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy brown rice, or even a bed of noodles. These sides soak up all the tasty sauce and make the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the stir fry in individual bowls with bright garnishes arranged neatly. For a fun twist, try wrapping the chicken and veggies in lettuce leaves for a fresh, handheld treat that’s perfect for casual dinners or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Chicken Stir Fry in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some of their crispness after thawing. Store the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve its texture. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up and re-coat the chicken and veggies evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
What cut of chicken works best for stir fry?
Chicken breast is perfect for its lean texture and ability to cook quickly. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and extra juiciness.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has just a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, which can easily be adjusted or omitted if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?
Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken and use enough oil. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the chicken to sear properly.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is truly a kitchen MVP for anyone who loves meals that are quick, flavorful, and full of fresh ingredients. Once you’ve tasted the perfect balance of tender chicken and crisp vegetables coated in that luscious sauce, you’ll want to make it again and again. So grab your wok or skillet, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious journey that promises both comfort and excitement on your plate.
Print
Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken Stir Fry that combines tender chicken breast with fresh vegetables in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. This 30-minute recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, offering a perfect balance of protein and veggies with a deliciously tangy and slightly spicy sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Sauce and Garnish
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breast with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and set aside for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cornstarch to tenderize the meat.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir-fry the bell pepper, broccoli florets, snap peas, and carrot slices for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp, maintaining a vibrant color and slight crunch.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the vegetables and continue stir-frying for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Combine and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir well to evenly coat and cook everything together for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the stir fry from heat and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles as desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chili slices.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as an alternative for juicier meat.
- Adjust vegetables based on seasonality or preference; mushrooms or baby corn work well.
- Cook vegetables to your preferred level of crispness to suit your taste.
- For gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
