This Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is colorful and packed with flavor! Juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and mushrooms come together quickly in a yummy sauce.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking. You can use thighs instead for a juicier option, or even tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch. If zucchini is not available, you can substitute it with bell peppers or snap peas for a different texture.
Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms work well, but you can swap in shiitake or even canned mushrooms if fresh ones aren’t on hand. They’ll still add a rich flavor.
Soy Sauce: If you’re gluten-free, try tamari or coconut aminos. Both work well for that savory kick without the gluten.
How Can I Perfectly Stir Fry My Ingredients?
Stir frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. First, make sure your pan is hot before adding oil. This ensures that the food doesn’t steam but instead sears nicely.
- Cook chicken in batches if your pan isn’t large enough. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Stir frequently but let the veggies have a moment to sear for best flavor.
- Always add sauces towards the end to prevent burning or too much liquid. This locks in flavors effectively.
Using these techniques and ingredient swaps can enhance your stir fry experience, making it tailored to your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal ready in about 25 minutes total. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and stir fry for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden color. After that, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced onions, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir fry for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll know it’s time for the next step!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Add the sliced zucchini and mushrooms to the pan. Keep stir frying for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still have a bit of crunch. The colors will brighten up, and it’s looking delicious!
4. Combine Everything:
Next, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Give everything a good stir to coat the chicken and veggies in the flavorful sauce.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Pour in the cornstarch slurry and mix everything well. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables. Adjust the seasoning with a bit of salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the stir fry from the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your tasty zucchini mushroom chicken stir fry!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—shrimp and tofu will cook more quickly, while beef may need a bit longer.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes. For a lower-sodium option, you can also find low-sodium soy sauce at most grocery stores.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure all the veggies remain crisp yet tender!
These tips should help you make the most of your Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry experience! Enjoy!
