This Easy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a quick meal packed with tender chicken and fresh zucchini. It’s vibrant and colorful, making it a feast for both the eyes and your tummy!
I love how everything cooks in one pan. It’s super simple, and cleanup is a breeze! Plus, you can toss in any veggies you have on hand. Use whatever you like—no judgment here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This veggie is tender and absorbs flavors well. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash or bell peppers for a colorful twist.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to, but you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier result. Tofu or tempeh works well for a vegetarian option!
Soy Sauce: I use regular soy sauce, but if you need it gluten-free, tamari is fantastic. Coconut aminos is a nice alternative for those avoiding soy altogether.
Oyster Sauce: This is optional, but it adds depth to the flavor. You can skip it, or use hoisin sauce for sweetness instead.
What’s the Best Way to Stir-Fry Without Burning Anything?
Stir-frying is a quick cooking method, so having everything prepped ahead helps. Here are some tips:
- Use a large pan or wok to avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming rather than frying.
- Keep the heat high, but watch closely; stir frequently to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Cook proteins first, remove them, then cook veggies quickly to keep them crisp!
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a beautifully cooked stir fry every time!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For The Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnishes:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 25 minutes to a tasty dinner on the table. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Season them with a bit of salt and pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir for about 30 seconds until you can smell the fabulous aroma.
4. Cook the Zucchini and Squash:
Now, toss in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until they are tender yet still slightly crisp. This keeps them flavorful and vibrant!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Stir gently to mix everything together. Then, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), honey, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything to coat in the sauce and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top before serving. You can enjoy this stir fry on its own, or serve it over warm steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Enjoy your healthy and flavorful Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but be aware they may have a softer texture when cooked. If using frozen, add them directly to the pan but keep the cooking time slightly longer to ensure they’re heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives to chicken, try using tofu, shrimp, or beef. Make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly: tofu should be cooked until golden, while shrimp will only need a few minutes until opaque.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or heat quickly in a skillet over medium heat.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
