There's something absolutely magical about the sizzle of fresh vegetables hitting a hot pan when making the perfect Chicken Stir Fry for a busy Tuesday evening. Last week, when I was scrambling to get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, this recipe saved the day and had my whole family asking for seconds. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and that glossy, flavorful sauce creates the most satisfying meal that feels both healthy and indulgent.
My sister always says the best chicken stir fry recipes are the ones that make you feel like a master chef even when you're using basic ingredients from your fridge. This recipe has become our family's go-to whenever we need something quick, delicious, and guaranteed to please everyone around the table.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Stir Fry
This chicken stir fry delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen without any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. What makes this chicken stir fry with vegetables special is how it balances textures and flavors perfectly - tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce that coats everything beautifully. My husband, who usually picks at vegetables, actually finishes every bite of this dish! It's one of those healthy stir fry recipes clean eating enthusiasts love because you control every ingredient and can pack in as many nutritious vegetables as you want.
The best part is how adaptable it is - use whatever vegetables you have on hand, make it into a teriyaki chicken stir fry by swapping the sauce, or add extra heat with chili flakes. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
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What You'll Need
These simple, fresh ingredients transform into something extraordinary with just the right technique and timing. The key is having everything prepped before you start cooking.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Stir Fry Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup chicken broth
Optional Extras
Snap peas for extra crunch, mushrooms for earthiness, or pineapple chunks for a sweet twist. My daughter loves when I make it into chicken and broccoli stir fry with extra broccoli and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper!
This chicken stir fry with vegetables is super easy - full steps are in the recipe card.
How to Make Chicken Stir Fry
Prep Everything First
Slice chicken into thin strips and cut all vegetables into uniform pieces. Whisk together all stir fry sauce ingredients until cornstarch is completely dissolved.
Heat Your Pan Right
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until it shimmers. High heat is crucial for that perfect stir fry texture.
Cook Chicken to Perfection
Add chicken to hot pan in single layer. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until golden, then stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
People Also Ask: What's the secret to tender stir fry chicken? Slice chicken against the grain into thin, uniform pieces and don't overcrowd the pan. High heat and quick cooking keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Add Vegetables by Cooking Time
Add harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli first, cook for 2 minutes, then add bell peppers and onions. Cook until crisp-tender.
Create the Sauce Magic
Push everything to one side of pan, add garlic and ginger to empty space. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir everything together.
Finish with Glossy Sauce
Pour sauce over everything and stir quickly until sauce thickens and coats all ingredients beautifully, about 1-2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Aliana's Top Tip
The secret to the most incredible stir fry chicken is getting your pan screaming hot and not overcrowding it.
When I first started making stir fry recipes teriyaki style, I'd dump everything in at once and end up with soggy, steamed vegetables instead of that perfect crisp-tender texture!
Cook in batches if needed, and always have your sauce mixed and ready to go before you start cooking.
Once you add that sauce, everything happens fast, so preparation is everything.
My mom taught me that the best teriyaki chicken and vegetables dishes are all about timing and high heat.
Don't be afraid of that sizzle - it's what gives you those beautiful caramelized edges and keeps everything crisp and fresh-tasting.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Transform this into a teriyaki chicken stir fry by using teriyaki sauce instead of the homemade sauce. Chicken thighs work great instead of breasts for extra flavor and juiciness. Any vegetables work - try snow peas, zucchini, or baby corn for variety. For a healthy chicken teriyaki recipe version, reduce the brown sugar and add extra ginger. You can also make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftover chicken stir fry in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in airtight containers. The vegetables will soften slightly but still taste delicious! Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. For best results, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to refresh the sauce.
What to Serve With Chicken Stir Fry
This chicken stir fry pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. My family loves it over rice noodles or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. It's also delicious with a side of pot stickers or spring rolls for a full Asian-inspired dinner. The sauce is so good, you'll want something to soak up every last drop.
FAQs About Chicken Stir Fry
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Fresh vegetables give the best texture, but you can use frozen in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well first to avoid excess water.
What's the best oil for stir frying?
Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or avocado oil work best because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors.
How do I prevent my stir fry from being watery?
Use high heat, don't overcrowd the pan, and make sure vegetables are completely dry before cooking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The prep can be done hours ahead, but stir fry is best served immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're craving more chicken stir fry recipes like this one, try my honey garlic chicken stir fry, beef and broccoli stir fry, or my famous fried rice with vegetables. Each one brings that same quick, satisfying flavor to your weeknight Dinner rotation using simple techniques that deliver restaurant-quality results.
Put your own flair on this dish? Tag me on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - your creativity could inspire someone else! Looking for more healthy chicken stir fry with vegetables ideas? Check out my quick Dinner collection for easy meals that bring the family together around the table.
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Pairing
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