Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry

Introduction

Stir-frying is one of the quickest and most flavorful ways to whip up a satisfying meal. Whether you’re pressed for time on a busy weekday or looking for a healthy dinner option, Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry hits the mark. This dish combines tender chicken with vibrant, nutrient-packed vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce that delivers a punch of flavor.

What makes stir fry such a popular choice is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you already have in your kitchen, making it both budget-friendly and waste-conscious. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques that will ensure your stir fry turns out perfect every time.

Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a reliable, go-to recipe, this Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry recipe is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal plan.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather everything you’ll need. Prepping your tools and ingredients ahead of time will make the cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry.

Kitchen Tools

1. Wok or large skillet
   A wok is the traditional tool for stir-frying, designed to distribute heat quickly and evenly. If you don’t have one, a large skillet will work just as well. Look for one with high sides to make stirring easier and prevent ingredients from spilling.
2. Tongs or spatula
   Stir-frying involves frequent tossing and turning of ingredients to ensure everything cooks evenly. Tongs or a sturdy spatula will help you achieve that perfect sear on your chicken and crispness on the vegetables without crushing them.
3. Cutting board
   You’ll need a reliable cutting board to chop your veggies and slice the chicken. Choose a sturdy one with enough space to keep your ingredients organized, especially since you’ll be cutting multiple items at once.
4. Sharp knife
   A sharp knife is key to this recipe. You’ll be slicing chicken breasts into thin pieces and chopping vegetables into bite-sized portions, so having a well-honed knife will make the job faster and safer.

Key Ingredients

Now that you have your tools ready, let’s talk about the star players in this dish. Each ingredient has a role in bringing balance, texture, and flavor to your stir fry.

1. Chicken breast
   Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They are lean, high in protein, and cook quickly, making them perfect for stir-frying. Make sure to slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly and stay tender.
2. Mixed vegetables
   One of the best things about stir fry is its flexibility with vegetables. For this recipe, we recommend a combination of:
   • Broccoli for crunch and its rich vitamin content.
   • Bell peppers (preferably red) for a hint of sweetness and vibrant color.
   • Carrots to add some earthiness and a slightly sweet note.
   • Snow peas, which offer a crisp texture and a fresh, slightly sweet taste.

Feel free to mix and match with other veggies you have on hand, like zucchini or mushrooms, to suit your preference.

3. Stir fry sauce
   The sauce brings everything together, infusing the chicken and veggies with bold flavors. A classic combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, a bit of honey for sweetness, and a dash of sesame oil for depth makes for a delicious sauce. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute soy sauce with tamari.
4. Cooking oil
   Stir-frying requires oil with a high smoke point, as the cooking temperature will be quite high. Avocado oil or sesame oil works beautifully here. Both oils impart subtle flavors without burning or breaking down under heat.

Pro Tip: Get all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves fast, and having everything prepped will prevent overcooking and keep your kitchen stress-free.

Ingredients

To make a delicious and balanced Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry, it’s essential to have the right mix of ingredients. This section will guide you through the exact quantities and offer tips on how to prep each item to ensure everything cooks evenly and tastes amazing.

Chicken and Vegetables

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  Thinly slice the chicken breasts into uniform strips. The thinner you cut them, the quicker they cook, helping them stay juicy without drying out. Cutting against the grain will also make the chicken more tender.
• 2 cups broccoli florets
  When prepping the broccoli, aim for bite-sized florets. You want them to cook evenly and retain a bit of crunch. If your florets are too large, they may remain undercooked in the center while other veggies become too soft.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  Red bell peppers add a sweet contrast to the savory stir fry. Slice them into long, thin strips to match the chicken and ensure they cook quickly. For extra visual appeal, feel free to mix different colored bell peppers (like yellow or orange) into the stir fry.
• 1 carrot, julienned
  Carrots bring a touch of natural sweetness and a great crunch. Julienne them into thin strips so they cook evenly alongside the chicken and other veggies. If you’re pressed for time, a quick cheat is to use pre-cut matchstick carrots.
• 1 cup snow peas
  Snow peas are a classic in stir fry dishes for a reason. They add a fresh, crisp texture that balances the softer vegetables. Make sure to trim the ends and remove any tough strings before tossing them in.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  Ginger provides a warm, slightly spicy kick that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile. Be sure to use fresh ginger for the best results—its bright and zesty notes cut through the richness of the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Garlic is a must for stir fry, delivering a deep, aromatic flavor. Mince it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish, adding that unmistakable savory note to every bite.

Stir Fry Sauce

The sauce is what ties the whole dish together. It adds umami, a bit of sweetness, and just enough richness without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables.

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  Soy sauce is the base of the stir fry sauce, providing that essential salty, umami flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, tamari works perfectly and delivers a similar taste.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  Oyster sauce brings a slight sweetness and depth to the sauce. If you’re avoiding seafood, there are vegetarian oyster sauces made from mushrooms that work just as well.
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option)
  A small amount of sweetness is key to balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce and the richness of the oyster sauce. Honey adds a subtle sweetness, but if you prefer a vegan or refined sugar-free version, maple syrup or agave will do the trick.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  Sesame oil adds a nutty depth that enhances the overall flavor. Be careful not to use too much, as sesame oil can easily overpower the other ingredients. A little goes a long way!
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. This will give the sauce a glossy, restaurant-style finish that clings beautifully to the chicken and veggies.

Note: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. Some people enjoy a little more heat—if that’s you, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to spice it up!

Instructions

Cooking a stir fry is all about timing and preparation. Since everything happens quickly once the heat is on, it’s important to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start. This section will walk you through the steps, ensuring your Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry turns out perfectly.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you even turn on the stove, you need to get all your ingredients prepped and organized.

1. Slice the chicken
   Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin strips, roughly the width of a finger. The key is to cut the chicken evenly so it cooks quickly and uniformly. If the pieces are too thick, they might take longer to cook, resulting in overcooked vegetables later on.
2. Chop the vegetables
   Cut your broccoli into bite-sized florets, slice the bell pepper into thin strips, julienne the carrot, and trim the ends of your snow peas. Be consistent with the size of your vegetables to ensure they all cook evenly.
3. Mince the garlic and ginger
   For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and ginger. Mince them finely so they release their aromas and flavors more evenly during the cooking process. A microplane or garlic press can speed this up if you want a finer texture.
4. Mix the stir fry sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and sesame oil. If you want a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water, then add it to the sauce mixture. Set it aside; you’ll be adding it at the very end.

Pro Tip: Stir fry moves fast, so keep everything within arm’s reach. Have your chicken, veggies, and sauce lined up next to the stove before turning on the heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now that everything is prepped, it’s time to start cooking Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry.

1. Heat the oil
   Place your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add a tablespoon of cooking oil (avocado or sesame oil works well). You’ll know the oil is ready when it starts to shimmer slightly.
2. Add the chicken
   Carefully add your sliced chicken to the hot oil. Spread the pieces out in a single layer so each piece makes direct contact with the pan, which helps them cook evenly. Stir occasionally with tongs or a spatula, allowing the chicken to brown on all sides.
3. Cook until golden
   Stir-fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes. The goal is to cook the chicken all the way through while getting a nice, golden-brown sear on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. You’ll add it back in later.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, you’ll now stir-fry the vegetables.

1. Add more oil
   If the pan seems a bit dry after cooking the chicken, add another tablespoon of oil. Let it heat up for a few seconds before adding your vegetables.
2. Start with the hard vegetables
   Begin with the broccoli and carrots, as they take longer to cook. Stir-fry them for about 2 minutes, tossing frequently so they soften without losing their crunch. The high heat should give them a slightly charred edge without burning them.
3. Add softer vegetables
   After the harder vegetables have had a chance to soften slightly, add the bell peppers and snow peas. These cook much faster, so they only need about 1-2 minutes in the pan. Toss everything together so the vegetables are evenly coated in oil and are slightly tender but still crisp.
4. Add garlic and ginger
   Once the vegetables are almost done, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir constantly to prevent them from burning, allowing them to release their fragrant aroma. This will take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step 4: Combine and Sauce It

Now that the vegetables are cooked and fragrant, it’s time to bring the dish together.

1. Return the chicken to the pan
   Add the cooked chicken back into the wok with the vegetables. Stir everything together so the chicken reheats and the flavors start to meld.
2. Pour in the sauce
   Give your stir fry sauce another quick whisk, then pour it into the pan. Stir everything together quickly so the sauce coats the chicken and veggies evenly. If you’re using cornstarch, the sauce should start to thicken almost immediately.
3. Toss until well-coated
   Keep stirring and tossing the ingredients for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and everything is well-coated. The vegetables should still have some bite to them, and the chicken should be moist and flavorful.

Optional Step: For a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch dissolved in water. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of water or chicken broth can help loosen it.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is perfectly cooked, it’s time to plate your stir fry.

1. Serve hot
   Spoon your stir fry over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a heartier meal. If you’re cutting back on carbs, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
2. Garnish
   For a bit of extra flavor and texture, sprinkle some sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top just before serving. You could also drizzle a little extra sesame oil if you like a stronger nutty flavor.

Nutrition Score

One of the best things about this Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry is how well it fits into a balanced, healthy eating plan. With lean protein from the chicken and plenty of fiber and vitamins from the mixed vegetables, this dish isn’t just tasty—it’s also nourishing. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:

• Calories: 320 kcal
  This is a moderate calorie count for a dinner, making it suitable for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, filling meal without overdoing it on the calorie front.
• Protein: 32g
  The chicken in this stir fry delivers a significant amount of lean protein, making it an excellent option for those looking to boost their protein intake. Protein helps with muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Carbohydrates: 22g
  This stir fry is naturally lower in carbs compared to heavier meals like pasta dishes or casseroles. Most of the carbohydrates come from the vegetables, which also bring along a lot of vitamins and fiber.
• Fat: 10g
  The fats in this recipe come from the cooking oil and sesame oil used in the sauce. By choosing a healthy, high-smoke-point oil like avocado oil and limiting the use of sesame oil to just a teaspoon, you get the benefits of healthy fats without excess.
• Fiber: 4g
  Fiber is crucial for digestion, and the vegetables in this stir fry—especially the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots—add a good amount of it. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar and keeps you feeling satisfied after your meal.

Health Benefits of Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry Ingredients

1. Chicken
   As a lean source of protein, chicken helps support muscle health and boosts metabolism. Since it’s low in fat and high in essential nutrients like niacin and selenium, it’s a great protein choice for this dish.
2. Broccoli
   Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and various antioxidants. It’s known to support the immune system and aid digestion, making it a powerhouse veggie to include in your stir fry.
3. Bell Peppers
   Loaded with vitamin C, bell peppers also provide a healthy dose of antioxidants that promote eye health and skin vitality. Their natural sweetness complements the savory sauce in this recipe.
4. Carrots
   Carrots are known for their high beta-carotene content, which supports vision health. They also bring a slight sweetness and crunch to balance the flavors.
5. Snow Peas
   These add a delicate, crisp texture and provide a good source of vitamins A and C, while also contributing to your fiber intake.

By combining these ingredients, you’re not just creating a flavorful meal—you’re also putting together something that fuels your body with the nutrients it needs to function well.

Serving and Storage

One of the great advantages of stir fry dishes is how easy they are to serve, store, and reheat. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or planning meals in advance, this dish works well for both fresh servings and leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

This stir fry is best enjoyed piping hot, straight from the wok. For a more filling meal, serve it over a base that complements the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

1. Rice
   Jasmine or brown rice pairs beautifully with stir fry, absorbing the sauce and offering a satisfying, slightly chewy texture. If you’re trying to keep things on the lighter side, opt for brown rice for its higher fiber content.
2. Quinoa
   For a more protein-rich option, serve your stir fry over quinoa. Quinoa’s nutty flavor and light texture work well with the umami-rich stir fry sauce.
3. Noodles
   If you’re craving something heartier, try serving the stir fry over noodles—rice noodles or soba noodles are excellent choices. They soak up the sauce while adding their own satisfying chew.
4. Low-carb options
   For those watching their carbohydrate intake, consider using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Both are fantastic lower-carb alternatives that still provide a base for the stir fry without overpowering the flavors of the dish.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (or if you’re meal prepping for the week), the good news is that this stir fry stores very well.

• Refrigerator storage
  Once the stir fry has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, store the chicken and vegetables separately from the base (rice, noodles, etc.) to prevent any sogginess.
• Freezing leftovers
  If you’re planning to freeze portions for later use, place the cooked stir fry in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can store stir fry in the freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture, then warm it in a pan.

Pro Tip: Avoid freezing stir fry with noodles or rice. They can become mushy when reheated. It’s best to freeze just the chicken and vegetable mix, then cook fresh rice or noodles when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, it’s important to preserve the flavors and texture as much as possible. Here’s how:

1. Skillet reheat
   Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the stir fry and cook, stirring often, until heated through. This method helps retain the original texture and ensures everything is evenly warmed.
2. Microwave reheat
   If you’re short on time, the microwave is a quick alternative. Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round until fully warmed. Be careful not to overheat, as the veggies may become mushy.

Variations of Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry

One of the best aspects of stir fry dishes is how adaptable they are. You can tweak the recipe to fit your personal taste, dietary preferences, or simply what you have available in your fridge. Here are a few ways you can switch things up to keep your stir fry interesting and tailored to your preferences.

1. Spicy Stir Fry

If you love your meals with a kick, transforming this stir fry into a spicy version is incredibly easy.

• Add chili: Toss in some fresh chili slices or sprinkle in red pepper flakes while stir-frying the chicken. For a deeper, more layered heat, consider adding a spoonful of Sriracha or chili-garlic sauce to the stir fry sauce mix.
• Kick up the sauce: If you prefer a more intense, smoky flavor, try using a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or Sambal Oelek for a more pungent, savory heat that sticks to the chicken and vegetables.

This spicy variation pairs beautifully with a side of cooling cucumber salad or a drizzle of cooling yogurt sauce to balance the heat.

2. Low-Carb Stir Fry

For those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake, this stir fry can easily be adapted to fit into a low-carb diet without sacrificing flavor.

• Swap the base: Instead of serving your stir fry over rice or noodles, try using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Both options provide a lighter base while maintaining the textural contrast that makes stir fry dishes so satisfying.
• Increase the veggies: You can also increase the volume of vegetables in the dish to make it heartier without relying on starches. Adding more broccoli, bell peppers, or even bok choy can help bulk up the dish while keeping the carb count low.

If you’re following a keto diet, consider adding a splash of coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a slightly sweeter, low-carb option that aligns with ketogenic requirements.

3. Vegan Stir Fry

If you’re opting for a plant-based diet or simply want to enjoy a meatless meal, you can easily make this stir fry vegan-friendly.

• Swap out the chicken: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Tofu, when pressed and cubed, can be stir-fried until golden and crispy, providing a wonderful contrast to the softer vegetables. Tempeh, on the other hand, offers a nutty flavor and more bite, perfect for adding texture to the dish.
• Substitute the oyster sauce: Oyster sauce is often used in traditional stir fry sauces for its depth and slight sweetness. For a vegan option, use mushroom-based oyster sauce or skip it altogether and add a little extra soy sauce or tamari for umami.

A vegan stir fry can be just as filling and delicious, especially when you pile on fiber-rich vegetables like shiitake mushrooms, zucchini, and snap peas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’re new to stir-frying or just looking to perfect your technique, these common questions and their detailed answers will help guide you toward success.

1. Do you stir-fry chicken or vegetables first?

When cooking stir fry, it’s best to cook the chicken first and then the vegetables. Here’s why:
Chicken, especially thin slices, requires more time to cook through compared to most vegetables. By cooking it first, you ensure that it reaches the right temperature without overcooking or drying out. Once it’s browned and cooked, you can remove it from the pan and cook the vegetables separately. This method also allows the vegetables to maintain their crunch, as they take less time to cook. After the veggies are done, add the chicken back in at the end to combine all the flavors.

2. What are the three rules of stir-frying?

There are a few core principles that guarantee a great stir fry:

1. High heat
   Stir-frying relies on high heat to quickly cook ingredients while retaining their texture and flavor. Make sure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the ingredients.
2. Evenly sliced ingredients
   Cutting everything into uniform pieces ensures that they all cook at the same rate. Whether it’s chicken, carrots, or peppers, consistency in size is key.
3. Stir constantly
   Stir-frying is a fast cooking method, and you need to keep the ingredients moving in the pan to prevent burning. Regularly tossing and stirring ensures even cooking and helps distribute the sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables.

3. What are the seven common ingredients in a stir-fry?

While stir fry recipes can vary greatly, there are a few ingredients that are frequently used in most stir-fry dishes:

1. Protein: Chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh.
2. Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, or zucchini.
3. Garlic: Adds a strong, aromatic flavor.
4. Ginger: Provides a warm, slightly spicy kick.
5. Soy Sauce: A staple in most stir fry sauces for its savory umami flavor.
6. Oil: High-smoke-point oils like sesame, avocado, or peanut oil for cooking.
7. Rice or noodles: Traditionally served with rice, but noodles are also a popular base for stir-fried dishes.

4. What is the secret to a good stir-fry?

The secret to a great stir-fry lies in preparation. Stir fry cooking moves quickly, so the key to success is to have everything prepped in advance. This includes slicing the chicken and vegetables, mixing the sauce, and having your tools ready. The other trick is to use high heat and minimal cooking time, which helps lock in the flavor and maintain the crunch of the vegetables.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of stir-frying doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry recipe is both approachable and endlessly customizable. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious, flavorful, and quick to prepare.

By following the simple steps laid out here, you can enjoy a delicious meal that’s packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a sauce that’s savory, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying. Experiment with different ingredients, add your personal twists, and make it your own. The beauty of stir fry is its adaptability—every time you make it, you can create a slightly different version based on your mood or what’s in your pantry.

So grab your wok, prep those fresh ingredients, and enjoy a homemade stir fry that beats any takeout—both in taste and nutrition.

Explore More Stir Fry Recipes

Looking for more quick and tasty stir fry ideas? Check out our other recipes that use fresh, vibrant ingredients and come together in no time. You might enjoy our Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry for a lighter option.

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