Chicken And Vegetable Stir Fry

Name: Chicken And Vegetable Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g boneless chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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I absolutely love making Chicken And Vegetable Stir Fry because it’s a quick and colorful dish packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when I want something healthy yet delicious in no time. By using fresh vegetables and tender chicken, I can whip up a meal that’s not only satisfying but also nutritious. The best part is how customizable it is—I can switch out the veggies based on what I have on hand, ensuring nothing goes to waste while keeping it exciting!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:33:35.947Z

As I explored various stir-fry options, I found that marinating the chicken for just a short time transformed its flavor. I like using a combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, which really complements the freshness of the vegetables. After trying different combinations, I discovered that bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas create a beautiful rainbow of color and nutrients.

I've learned that a hot wok is key to achieving that perfect stir-fry texture. It keeps the chicken juicy and the vegetables crisp. I also recommend adding a splash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty finish that elevates the whole dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy vegetables that retain their crunch
A delicious balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors
Quick cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights

Selecting the Right Vegetables

When making Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry, choosing fresh, firm vegetables is key. Bell peppers add vibrant color and sweetness, while broccoli provides a satisfying crunch. Snap peas not only add texture but also a touch of sweetness that balances the savory chicken. To customize this dish, feel free to swap in your personal favorites like zucchini, carrots, or baby corn. Just make sure any vegetable you choose cooks quickly to avoid sogginess, ensuring a stir fry that’s bright and appealing.

Ensure your vegetables are cut uniformly to guarantee even cooking. Smaller pieces can cook too quickly and become mushy, whereas larger chunks may remain undercooked. Aim for bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch in size. If you’re using tougher vegetables like carrots, consider slicing them thinner or blanching them briefly before adding to the stir fry to ensure they’re tender yet crisp.

Perfecting Your Stir-Fry Technique

Using a high heat is crucial for achieving that signature stir-fry flavor. The sizzling heat causes the chicken to sear quickly, creating a caramelized surface that enhances its flavor. A large skillet or wok helps distribute heat evenly; if you overcrowd the pan, you risk steaming instead of stir-frying. If working in batches, make sure to return the chicken to the pan as it finishes cooking to heat through without losing that desirable texture.

Keep your ingredients ready and close by before you start cooking; stir-frying is fast-paced! Once the chicken is semi-cooked and no longer pink, add your vegetables. Stir-fry them just until they are glossy and bright—around 3-5 minutes. This way, they’ll retain their nutrients, color, and crunch. It's all about timing, so have a spatula on hand to keep things moving in the pan!

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine or brown rice, which soaks up the savory sauce perfectly. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice, or mix in some noodles for a heartier meal. Adding sesame seeds on top or green onions as a garnish brings out extra flavor and a lovely presentation. You can also serve it with a side of spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the stir fry’s texture. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer bags, expelling as much air as possible. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a vibrant stir fry!

Ingredients

500g boneless chicken breast, sliced
2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to wash all the vegetables thoroughly.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stir fry masterpiece!

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine sliced chicken breast with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes.

Heat the Pan

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering.

Stir-Fry the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are bright and crisp.

Final Touches

Drizzle sesame oil over the stir fry, season with salt and pepper, and toss everything together. Serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy stir fry with rice or noodles!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. Feel free to substitute any vegetables you have in your fridge!

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

The chicken breast in this recipe serves as the primary protein source, offering great flavor and texture. For a leaner option, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs, which provide a slightly richer taste. Alternatively, for a vegetarian or vegan alternative, tofu or tempeh can easily replace the chicken. Be sure to press and marinate tofu for the best flavor absorption.

Soy sauce not only provides saltiness but also enhances the umami flavor in the stir fry. If you're following a gluten-free diet, look for tamari or coconut aminos. In place of snap peas, consider snow peas or even green beans, but adjust cooking times accordingly, as some may require slightly longer to achieve that ideal crispness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stir fry turns out soggy, it's likely due to moisture from the vegetables or overcrowding the pan. Make sure to dry your vegetables thoroughly after washing, and consider batch cooking if your skillet isn't large enough. If you're worried about sogginess, consider blanching the veggies beforehand instead of including them raw in the stir fry.

For uneven cooking, ensure that your chicken slices are of uniform thickness. If they are too thick, they may take longer to cook through, while thinner slices may overcook. If you find the flavors lacking, try adding an extra splash of soy sauce or a dash of rice vinegar to enhance the overall taste. Remember, adjust according to your preference!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for a crowd. Simply increase the quantities of chicken and vegetables in a 1:1 ratio as needed. However, avoid cooking too large a batch at once. It's better to do this in two batches to maintain heat and achieve the best stir-fry texture. Each batch should be cooked separately and combined at the end to ensure everything is hot and evenly coated with sauce.

Additionally, consider meal prepping by making a double batch of the chicken and vegetable stir fry. It can be portioned and stored for later in the week. Not only does this save time during busy workdays, but it also allows you to have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go without having to cook from scratch every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the stir fry.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

While stir fry is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook them just before serving.