Craving a quick and delicious homemade dinner that’s packed with flavor? This Chicken Stir-Fry comes together in under 30 minutes and is loaded with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce that’s better than takeout. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stir-fry is a true weeknight hero—quick, flavorful, and totally customizable! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or love bold flavors, it’s a winner.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Packed with Flavor: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and a little kick of spice.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Completely Customizable: Swap in your favorite proteins or veggies.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced thin
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but recommended!)
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the chicken sit in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Cut Evenly: Slice chicken and veggies evenly for consistent cooking.
- Hot Pan is Key: Stir-fry over high heat to maintain crisp veggies and juicy chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add sliced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the remaining oil, then toss in garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Veggies: Stir in the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and cornstarch slurry. Pour over the stir-fry.
- Coat & Finish: Stir everything together until well coated and the sauce thickens.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot over rice or noodles and enjoy!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to keep a good sear on the chicken.
- Adjust the Sauce: Like it saucier? Double the sauce ingredients!
- Make it Spicy: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for heat.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Protein Swaps: Try shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Mushroom, snap peas, or baby corn make great additions.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or peanuts on top!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot pan for the best texture.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
The cornstarch slurry works great! Just let it simmer for a minute after adding to thicken up beautifully.
Can I freeze it?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Thaw and reheat in a pan for best results.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless chicken, sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan; cook chicken until golden. Remove.
- Add remaining oil, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
- Add veggies and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Return chicken to pan.
- Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, cornstarch slurry; pour over stir-fry.
- Stir until sauce thickens. Serve over rice or noodles.
Did you try this recipe? Share your delicious creation on Instagram and tag me @TheKitchensAid! I’d love to see your take on this stir-fry magic. Happy cooking!
