🥦 Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry – Full Recipe

Introduction

Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry is one of those dependable, go-to meals that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, healthy enough to feel good about serving, and versatile enough to adapt to whatever vegetables you have in your fridge.

This dish is all about balance—tender, juicy chicken paired with crisp, colorful vegetables coated in a savory sauce that’s slightly sweet, slightly salty, and deeply satisfying. The beauty of stir-fry lies in its speed. High heat locks in flavor while preserving the vegetables’ natural crunch and vibrant color.

Unlike heavy takeout options, homemade stir-fry allows you to control the ingredients, salt levels, and cooking oils. You get a fresher taste and a lighter finish without sacrificing richness. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

The key to a great stir-fry is preparation. Since the cooking process is quick, all ingredients should be chopped, measured, and ready before the pan hits the heat. Once everything is prepped, it’s simply a matter of cooking in stages to build layers of flavor.

Whether served over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own for a low-carb option, this chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a complete, satisfying meal in one pan.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin

2 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons soy sauce (divided)

2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 cup broccoli florets

1 cup snap peas

1 carrot, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)

1 tablespoon honey

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Sesame seeds for garnish

Preparation :
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, toss sliced chicken with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Let sit for 10 minutes. This tenderizes the chicken and helps create a silky texture.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey, chicken broth, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add remaining oil to the pan. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds. Add broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return chicken to the pan. Pour sauce over mixture and stir well.

Step 7: Simmer

Cook for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning

Taste and add salt or pepper if needed.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve hot.

Variation

🌶 1. Spicy Stir-Fry
Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce.

🥬 2. Extra Greens Version
Add spinach or bok choy at the end.

🍍 3. Sweet & Savory
Add pineapple chunks.

🍜 4. Noodle Stir-Fry
Toss with cooked noodles instead of rice.

🥥 5. Coconut Twist
Add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.

COOKING Note :

Use high heat for authentic stir-fry texture.

Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.

Prep all ingredients before starting.

Serving Suggestions :

Serve over steamed white rice

Pair with brown rice for extra fiber

Serve with fried rice

Enjoy over lo mein noodles

Serve on its own for low-carb meal

Tips :

Slice chicken against the grain.

Use fresh ginger for best flavor.

Don’t overcook vegetables.

Add sauce at the end to prevent sogginess.

Store leftovers up to 3 days.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information :

(Approximate per serving)
Calories: ~350
Protein: ~35 g
Sodium: ~620 mg

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, thighs stay extra juicy.

2. Can I make this ahead?

Best served fresh, but reheats well.

3. Can I freeze stir-fry?

Yes, but vegetables may soften when thawed.

4. What vegetables work best?

Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots are ideal.

5. How do I thicken the sauce more?

Add a small cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner that fits into any busy schedule. Packed with lean protein and vibrant vegetables, it delivers bold taste and satisfying texture in every bite. Easy to customize and simple to prepare, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again for fresh, homemade flavor in under 30 minutes.

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