Quick and Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Weeknight dinner doesn’t have to mean frozen pizza or overly complicated recipes that leave your kitchen a mess. Enter the ultimate lifesaver for busy parents and home cooks alike—Quick and Easy Chicken Stir Fry.

This flavorful, healthy dish is fast to whip up, easy to customize, and perfect for packing in those veggies without compromising on taste. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or just someone trying to get dinner on the table before the kids rebel, this stir fry is about to become your new best friend.

What you’ll get in this post:

• A foolproof chicken stir fry recipe
• Substitution ideas to fit different diets and pantry supplies
• Tips and tricks for maximum flavor and perfect textures

Time to dust off that skillet—your new favorite dinner awaits!

Print

Ingredients for Quick and Easy Chicken Stir Fry

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish. Don’t worry if you’re missing an ingredient; we’ve got substitutions covered!

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips

(Substitute with tofu, shrimp, or beef for variety)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

(Swap for tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free options)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil

(Use olive oil or avocado oil if not on hand)

• 4 cups of mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)

(Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge!)

Stir Fry Sauce

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp oyster sauce (optional but recommended for depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (can substitute with maple syrup for a healthier option)
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water

Optional Accompaniments

• Steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or cauliflower rice (Choose your carb companion!)
• Sesame seeds and chopped scallions (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking chicken stir fry is easier than you might think—here’s how to do it like a pro in under 30 minutes. Follow these steps to create a delicious, flavorful dish that’s better than takeout!

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

A good stir fry moves quickly, so preparation is the secret to success! Make sure to slice your chicken thinly against the grain for even cooking and tender pieces. Chop your veggies into bite-sized pieces that will cook quickly—some great options include bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms. Mince the garlic finely and grate the ginger using a microplane or small grater. Have these ready before you even turn on the stove to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken (Optional for Extra Flavor)

For juicier, more flavorful chicken, marinate it before cooking. Combine the sliced chicken strips with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a bowl. Toss well to coat evenly and let it sit for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the sauce. The soy sauce adds umami flavor, while the cornstarch helps to create a silky, glossy texture during cooking. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but it’s worth the extra effort when possible.

Step 3: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

The sauce is the heart of any stir fry, and it’s incredibly easy to make! In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey (or brown sugar for a slightly richer flavor), grated ginger, minced garlic, and 1/4 cup of chicken broth. If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or salinity to suit your preference—this step ensures your stir fry is perfectly balanced.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. A wok is ideal for stir frying because its shape helps distribute heat evenly and allows you to toss the ingredients easily, but a large skillet will also work. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 5: Stir Fry the Vegetables

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the same skillet. Once the oil is hot, toss in your chopped veggies and stir fry for 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking, and aim for tender-crisp vegetables that retain a bit of their crunch. If you’re using harder vegetables like carrots or broccoli, start with those first and add softer veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms a minute or two later. This staggered cooking ensures everything is cooked to perfection.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the stir fry sauce evenly over everything and toss well to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to heat everything through and allow the sauce to thicken slightly. The sauce will cling to the chicken and veggies, creating a glossy, flavorful coating. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and add it to the skillet, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Your chicken stir fry is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a pop of color and extra flavor. If you like some crunch, sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews on top. Pair your stir fry with a refreshing side like cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup to complete the meal.

With this step-by-step guide, you can whip up a delicious chicken stir fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Stir Fry

Get the best results with these simple but effective tips:

• Cut Evenly: Uniformly slice your chicken and veggies for consistent cooking.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat ensures quick cooking and vibrant, crunchy veggies.
• Don’t Overload the Pan: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Marination Matters (Optional): A quick marinade boosts flavor and keeps the chicken tender.
• Customize the Veggies: Use seasonal produce or clean out your fridge! Green beans, zucchini, or mushrooms work beautifully too.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this chicken stir fry with any of the following to complete your meal:

• Classic Steamed Rice for a traditional approach.
• Quinoa for a protein-packed addition.
• Cauliflower Rice for a low-carb option.
• Noodles (like soba or udon) for a fun twist.

For variety, try swapping chicken with shrimp or tofu occasionally. You can also add some chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick!

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you’re looking at per serving of Quick and Easy Chicken Stir Fry (approx. 4 servings):

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g
• Fat: 15-25g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sodium: 500-700mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

A Healthy, Easy Dinner You’ll Love

There you have it—Quick and Easy Chicken Stir Fry that’s as flavorful as it is practical. This dish not only simplifies weeknight dinners but also provides a wholesome meal that your family will love.

Whether you’re cooking for picky kids or spicing up date night, this recipe is endlessly customizable to suit your needs. Give it a try and see for yourself just how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality stir fry to your own kitchen.

Have a tip or twist on this classic recipe? Share it in the comments below!