Weeknight Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

This easy Weeknight Chicken Stir-Fry is loaded with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce that’s perfect over a bed of rice. It’s a quick, balanced meal that’s perfect for busy evenings—packed with protein and vibrant vegetables to keep everyone satisfied!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep!
• Versatile Veggies: Use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
• Simple Ingredients: Everyday pantry staples make up the sauce.
• Perfectly Balanced: A great balance of protein, veggies, and flavorful sauce for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp ginger, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth, divided
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2 cups mixed veggies (such as broccoli, sugar snap peas, and bell peppers)
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• Cooked rice for serving
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Skillet:
   • Spray a large 12-inch skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high.
2. Cook the Chicken, Garlic, and Ginger:
   • Add the chicken pieces, minced garlic, and minced ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned.
3. Add Sauce Ingredients:
   • Pour in 3/4 cup of the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir to combine, cover, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Vegetables:
   • Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth with the cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the chicken stir-fry over cooked rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your flavorful and easy meal!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large 12-inch skillet
• Mixing bowls for cornstarch slurry
• Spoon or spatula for stirring

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve this stir-fry over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, or baby corn to the stir-fry for added flavor and texture.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to reduce the salt content.

Helpful Notes

• Cut Even Pieces: For quick and even cooking, cut the chicken and veggies into similar-sized pieces.
• Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger make a huge difference in flavor, adding depth and a bit of spice to the dish.
• Thickening the Sauce: Make sure to stir the cornstarch slurry just before adding it to the skillet for a smooth, lump-free sauce.

Tips from Chefs

• Chef J. Kenji López-Alt: “For a crispier finish, let the chicken sear undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring.”
• Chef Ming Tsai: “Add a small dash of toasted sesame oil at the end for an extra layer of flavor.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in stir-fries and add extra juiciness.

Q2: Can I make this stir-fry gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

Q3: What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
Carrots, zucchini, snap peas, and baby corn are all great options.

Q4: Can I add more sauce?
Yes, if you prefer more sauce, simply double the sauce ingredients.

Q5: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Enjoy this Delicious, Quick Weeknight Chicken Stir-Fry!

This Chicken Stir-Fry is a weeknight hero—quick, nutritious, and full of savory flavors. With crisp vegetables and a deliciously thickened sauce, it’s perfect served over rice or your favorite grain. Follow these simple steps, and enjoy a homemade, takeout-inspired dinner in no time!

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