Easy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients & Substitutions

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is what gives this dish its crunch and flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you can substitute yellow squash or even green beans for a different twist.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it lean. For a change, use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.

Oil: Vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for stir-frying. Olive oil works too, though it can have a lower smoke point. You could try sesame oil for a slightly nutty flavor!

Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger add a lovely aroma. If you’re short on time, garlic powder and ground ginger can substitute, but fresh is always better for taste.

Bell Pepper: The red bell pepper adds color and sweetness. Feel free to omit it or switch it up with broccoli, snap peas, or any veggie you have on hand.

How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?

The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Here’s how to do it:

• Slice the chicken thinly to help it cook quickly and evenly.
• Ensure your oil is hot before adding the chicken—this helps it sear instead of steam.
• Cook for just 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until there’s no pink in the center.
• If using chicken thighs, they may need an extra minute or two due to their thickness.

Keeping these tips in mind will help you get juicy, flavorful chicken in your stir fry every time! Have fun cooking! 🍽️

Easy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Stir Fry:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional for color)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for sauce thickening)

For Garnish:

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This easy stir fry takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking the dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-6 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and slightly browned. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened. You’ll love the aroma!

3. Add the Vegetables:

Next, add the zucchini slices and the optional bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until everything is tender but still crisp. This is where your stir fry gets its fresh flavor!

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and grated ginger. Stir everything well to combine and let the flavors mix together.

5. Thicken the Sauce:

If you like a thicker sauce, make the cornstarch slurry by mixing it with water. Add this mixture to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and veggies.

6. Final Touches:

Give the stir fry a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It’s all about getting it just right for your palate!

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the stir fry from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if you’d like. Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Enjoy your quick and healthy Easy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry! It’s a delicious way to eat your veggies!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry

Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Stir Fry?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile—feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand, like broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on which veggies you choose.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of soy sauce or water to prevent it from drying out.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! To make this stir fry gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that any other sauces you use are labeled gluten-free. It’ll be just as delicious!

What Can I Serve with This Stir Fry?

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. For a low-carb option, you could also serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad.