Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is a flavorful, colorful, and wholesome meal that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It combines tender slices of chicken with a vibrant mix of vegetables, all coated in a savory stir-fry sauce. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner yet versatile enough to be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes

• Balanced meal with lean protein and nutritious vegetables

• Easily customizable based on what you have on hand

• Deliciously savory with hints of sweetness and umami

• Pairs perfectly with rice or noodles

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless, thinly sliced

• Vegetable oil

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh ginger, minced

• Mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini)

• Soy sauce

• Oyster sauce

• Sesame oil

• Cornstarch

• Chicken broth or water

• Sugar

Directions

1. In a small bowl, marinate the sliced chicken with a teaspoon each of soy sauce and cornstarch. Set aside for 10 minutes.

2. In another bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chicken broth (or water), and a teaspoon of cornstarch to make the stir-fry sauce.

3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger until fragrant.

5. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3–5 minutes or until just tender.

6. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.

7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken for beef, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh

• Use seasonal or frozen vegetables depending on availability

• Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version

• Substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and brown sugar for a similar flavor

• For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken tender in a stir fry?

To keep the chicken tender, marinate it briefly with soy sauce and cornstarch. Stir-frying on high heat for a short period also helps prevent overcooking.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just thaw and drain them well before adding to the pan to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best type of soy sauce to use?

Regular soy sauce works well, but low-sodium soy sauce is a good option if you’re watching your salt intake.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Stir-fry just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What other sauces can I use if I don’t have oyster sauce?

Hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce with a bit of brown sugar makes a good substitute for oyster sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

The basic recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce if you prefer heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your pan is large enough or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and steaming the ingredients.

How can I make this lower in sodium?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

What kind of oil is best for stir-frying?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for stir-frying.

What should I serve with this stir fry?

It pairs well with steamed rice, jasmine rice, brown rice, or stir-fried noodles.

Conclusion

Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is a go-to recipe for a delicious, healthy, and fast meal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple in any kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a nutritious homemade takeout alternative, this recipe delivers on all fronts.