There’s something about the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables sizzling in a hot wok that instantly lifts my spirits. Picture this: the crunch of broccoli, the sweetness of bell peppers, and tender chicken, all bathed in a luscious, glossy sauce that clings to every bite. When weeknight meals start feeling repetitive, this Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables recipe swoops in like a superhero to save dinner.
Not only is it quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a favorite for both busy families and culinary enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a delightful escape from takeout, this dish ticks all the boxes. Join me in transforming ordinary ingredients into a meal that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables
- This recipe is a true time-saver, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
- The explosion of flavors from fresh vegetables and tender chicken creates a taste sensation that will delight your taste buds.
- Its versatility shines through, as you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand.
- Visually, the vibrant colors of the dish are sure to impress your family and guests, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables Ingredients
Let’s gather the essentials for this delicious dish!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of our stir-fry, providing lean protein and tenderness.
• Olive oil – helps in browning the chicken and adds healthy fat.
For the Sauce
• Low-sodium chicken broth – adds depth of flavor while keeping it lighter.
• Soy sauce – delivers that classic umami taste that makes stir-fry so addictive.
• Honey – introduces a touch of sweetness to balance savory flavors.
• Cornstarch – thickens the sauce for that glossy finish, making every bite delightful.
• Cold water – helps dissolve the cornstarch smoothly.
• Toasted sesame oil – adds a nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – give a spicy kick if you love some heat!
For the Vegetables
• Broccoli florets – provide crunch and health benefits, rich in vitamins.
• Bell peppers – their sweetness brightens up the flavor palette.
• Baby carrots – add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Snap peas – contribute a crisp texture and fresh taste.
• Green onions – sprinkle these for a burst of flavor and color.
• Onion – adds sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.
• Salt – brings all the flavors together.
• Black pepper – a finishing touch to enhance the taste.
Enjoy the process of creating this Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables marvel right in your kitchen!
How to Make Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables
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Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Then, whisk in the toasted sesame oil, low-sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Set this tasty sauce aside.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add in the cubed chicken breast, seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until browned and juicy. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium, adding the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in minced garlic and ginger, letting them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant and inviting.
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Add the Veggies: Stir in the diced onion, broccoli florets, bell peppers, sliced carrots, and half of the green onions and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp and colorful.
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Combine and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing gently with the fresh vegetables. Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce and stir gently, ensuring everything is coated in that luscious glaze.
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Thicken the Sauce: Bring the stir-fry to a boil for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to a glossy perfection that glistens with flavor.
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Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle the remaining snap peas and green onions on top as a bright garnish before serving up this delightful dish!
Optional: Serve over rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables
Fridge: Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and the vegetables crunchy.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the stir-fry for up to 2 months. Ensure cool down first, then pack in freezer-safe bags, removing air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
Room Temperature: For food safety, do not leave the stir-fry out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Enjoy it fresh and flavorful!
What to Serve with Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables?
Whether you’re elevating a cozy family dinner or impressing friends, this dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and drinks.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The fragrant, nutty flavors of jasmine rice soak up the delicious stir-fry sauce, making every bite irresistible.
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Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles bring a rich, savory element to the meal that complements the freshness of the stir-fry.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Adding a crispy texture with a crunchy, savory filling makes spring rolls a delightful appetizer for your meal.
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Sesame Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in a light sesame dressing add a fresh, crunchy contrast that pairs harmoniously with the chicken and vegetables.
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Mango Salad: The sweetness of ripe mangoes, combined with a tangy vinaigrette, brightens the meal and adds a refreshing touch to balance out the savory stir-fry.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors of the dish while providing a refreshing sip alongside the meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: Round off your dinner with a light, airy chocolate mousse for an indulgent yet satisfying sweet ending without overwhelming the palate.
Join in this culinary journey of flavors and textures, creating a well-rounded dining experience that delights every sense!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the chicken can be cubed and marinated in the sauce (cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, and other ingredients) for up to 24 hours before cooking to enhance the flavors. To maintain quality, keep the chicken and vegetables separate until you're ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply stir-fry the marinated chicken first, then add the prepped veggies, cooking until they're tender-crisp, for a meal that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!
Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create your own delightful spin on this dish!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option, packed with protein and flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, ensuring your stir-fry remains delicious without gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add Sriracha or fresh chili slices to the mix for a fiery twist that will elevate your dish to new levels.
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Crispy Addition: Toss in some water chestnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken and veggies perfectly.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped cashews or almonds at the end for a nutty crunch that enhances each bite.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the stir-fry just before serving for a lively, zesty finish.
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Teriyaki Twist: Swap the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory flavor profile that adds a unique Asian flair.
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Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to substitute any veggies according to the season, like asparagus in spring or root vegetables in fall, to keep things fresh and interesting.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables, ensure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet to prevent steaming; cook in batches if necessary for that perfect brown sear.
- To preserve the vibrant colors and nutrients of your vegetables, add them to the skillet in order of cooking time, starting with those that take longer to cook.
- Keep your heat at medium-high to achieve a great stir-fry texture and ensure a quick cooking time for the vegetables.
Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts, look for ones that are pink and firm to the touch. Avoid those with dark spots or a slimy texture, as they may not be fresh. Also, check the packaging date to ensure you're getting the freshest option available.
How do I store leftover Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container and place it in your refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables?
Very! To freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely. Next, portion it into freezer-safe bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I do if my stir-fry sauce didn't thicken properly?
If your sauce isn't thickening as desired, don't worry—it can happen to the best of us! Simply mix another teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of cold water to create a slurry. Then, add this mixture to your stir-fry while it’s simmering. Allow it to cook for an additional minute or two, and you should see the sauce begin to thicken up beautifully!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
It can be! However, if you're serving friends or family with allergies, remember that this dish contains chicken and soy sauce—which can be problematic for those with gluten sensitivities. For a gluten-free alternative, try using tamari instead of soy sauce. Also, if serving pets, avoid giving them any leftovers that contain onion or garlic, as they can be harmful to cats and dogs. Always consult with a specialist if you have concerns!
What’s the best way to reheat the stir-fry?
To reheat leftovers, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce and ensure the stir-fry remains moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your perfectly reheated Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables!
Stir-Fry Chicken and Vegetables
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Then, whisk in the toasted sesame oil, low-sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Set this tasty sauce aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add in the cubed chicken breast, seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until browned and juicy. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium, adding the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in minced garlic and ginger, letting them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant and inviting.
- Stir in the diced onion, broccoli florets, bell peppers, sliced carrots, and half of the green onions and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp and colorful.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing gently with the fresh vegetables. Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce and stir gently, ensuring everything is coated in that luscious glaze.
- Bring the stir-fry to a boil for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to a glossy perfection that glistens with flavor.
- Finally, sprinkle the remaining snap peas and green onions on top as a bright garnish before serving up this delightful dish!
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