This Chicken and Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry is a perfect harmony of tender, juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a rich and savory sauce. The crisp texture of the veggies combined with the umami-packed sauce makes every bite incredibly satisfying. The blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce enhances the flavors, while a hint of sesame oil adds an aromatic depth.
A quick and nutritious meal, this stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp. Serve it over a bowl of steamed rice or noodles for a comforting dish that is both healthy and delicious.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (red, yellow, or green)
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/2 cup snap peas
- 1/4 cup onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for a saucier stir-fry)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips and cook until lightly browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the garlic, ginger, and onion, stirring until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- If using chicken broth, pour it in and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is well coated.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Chicken and Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry – A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal
Chicken and Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dish that brings together lean protein, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce that ties everything together. This meal is inspired by Asian cuisine, specifically Chinese-style stir-fries, known for their balance of textures, flavors, and nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a healthy meal-prep option, this recipe is the perfect choice.
The History and Origin of Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is a cooking technique that originated in China over 2,000 years ago during the Han dynasty. It became popular due to its ability to cook food quickly while preserving its natural flavors, colors, and nutrients. Traditionally, a wok is used for stir-frying because of its high, sloping sides that allow food to be tossed and cooked evenly over high heat.
Over time, stir-frying spread across Asia and eventually became a global favorite, with different cultures adding their own twists to the dish. This Chicken and Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry follows the traditional method while incorporating a blend of fresh vegetables and a well-balanced sauce to enhance its taste.
Why This Recipe is the Best Choice
1. Quick and Easy to Make
This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy individuals or families who want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Nutritious and Balanced
- Protein-Packed: Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles.
- Vitamin-Rich Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber.
- Healthy Fats: The use of sesame oil and vegetable oil adds heart-healthy fats that enhance flavor without being overly greasy.
3. Customizable to Your Preferences
- Make it Vegan: Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
- Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a drizzle of honey.
4. Better Than Takeout
This dish delivers the bold flavors of restaurant-style stir-fry but without the added preservatives, excessive sodium, or unhealthy oils. It’s a healthier, homemade alternative that still satisfies your cravings.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
1. Quick and Easy Preparation
- Total time: Just 25 minutes
- One-pan dish, meaning fewer dishes to clean
- Ideal for weeknight dinners and meal prepping
2. Packed with Nutrients
- Lean protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein that helps build and repair muscles.
- Vitamin-rich vegetables: Bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas provide essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber.
- Healthy fats: Sesame oil and vegetable oil add beneficial fats that enhance the dish’s flavor.
3. Customizable for Different Diets
- Keto-friendly: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and replace carrots with low-carb vegetables.
- Vegan option: Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
- Spicier version: Add chili flakes or Sriracha for extra heat.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezes well for up to 2 months.
- Reheats easily in a pan or microwave, making it a great grab-and-go meal.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
1. Chicken Breast
- High in protein, low in fat
- Keeps you full and supports muscle growth
2. Broccoli
- Rich in antioxidants and fiber
- Contains vitamins K and C for immune health
3. Bell Peppers
- Adds sweetness and crunch
- High in vitamin C for skin health and immunity
4. Carrots
- Packed with beta-carotene for good vision and skin health
- Adds a natural sweetness to balance the savory flavors
5. Snap Peas
- Provides a crunchy texture and fresh flavor
- High in fiber to aid digestion
6. Garlic and Ginger
- Boosts the immune system
- Adds depth of flavor to the dish
7. Stir-Fry Sauce (Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Hoisin Sauce, Sesame Oil)
- Creates the umami-rich, savory glaze that coats every ingredient
- Provides a balance of saltiness, sweetness, and nuttiness
Cooking Tips for the Best Stir-Fry
1. Prep Everything Before Cooking
Since stir-frying happens quickly, chop all your vegetables and measure your sauce ingredients before you start.
2. Use a Hot Pan or Wok
- Medium-high heat helps create that signature stir-fry char without overcooking the ingredients.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.
3. Cook in Stages
- Start with the chicken: Cook it first, then remove it from the pan to avoid overcooking.
- Sauté garlic and ginger next: This builds the base flavor for the dish.
- Add the hardest vegetables first: Carrots and broccoli should go in before softer veggies like bell peppers and snap peas.
4. Use a Thickening Slurry
A mixture of cornstarch and water helps create a glossy sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables, giving the dish a professional, restaurant-quality finish.
5. Serve Immediately
For the best texture and flavor, serve the stir-fry straight from the pan over a bowl of rice or noodles.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry pairs well with:
🥢 Steamed Jasmine Rice – Absorbs the sauce and complements the dish’s flavors.
🍜 Stir-Fried Noodles – A great option for a noodle-based meal.
🥑 Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative for a healthier meal.
🍚 Brown Rice – Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
🌱 Side Salad with Sesame Dressing – A fresh contrast to the warm stir-fry.
Storage and Reheating Tips
📌 Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
📌 Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
📌 Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Variations to Try
🔥 Spicy Sichuan-Style Stir-Fry – Add Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil for a fiery kick.
🍯 Honey Garlic Stir-Fry – Sweeten the sauce with a drizzle of honey.
🥜 Thai-Inspired Stir-Fry – Add crushed peanuts and fresh lime juice for extra zest.
🍍 Sweet and Sour Stir-Fry – Mix in pineapple chunks and sweet chili sauce.
🥑 Teriyaki Stir-Fry – Replace the sauce with teriyaki glaze for a Japanese twist.
Why This Dish is a Great Addition to Your Recipe Collection
1️⃣ Beginner-Friendly – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and foolproof steps make it perfect for any home cook.
2️⃣ Healthy and Balanced – A perfect combination of lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and nutrient-dense sauces.
3️⃣ Better Than Takeout – Avoid excessive sodium, oils, and artificial additives while still enjoying authentic flavors.
4️⃣ Great for Families – Kids and adults alike love the savory, slightly sweet, and umami-packed taste.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry is an absolute must-try for those who love quick, healthy, and flavorful meals. With its vibrant colors, delicious sauce, and perfectly cooked chicken, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that you can enjoy any night of the week.
Give it a try and customize it to your liking – whether you want to keep it classic or experiment with bold flavors, this stir-fry is a guaranteed hit on your dinner table! 🥢🔥