If you’re looking for a flavorful, colorful, and nutritious dish that comes together quickly, this easy Chicken Stir Fry with vegetables is the perfect choice. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a delicious homemade sauce, it’s a satisfying meal the whole family will love. This recipe serves 4 and is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead of time.
1. Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup baby carrots, sliced
- 2 tsp minced ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Stir Fry Sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until fully dissolved. Stir in the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set the sauce aside.
Step 2. Cook the Chicken
Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets, sliced baby carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4. Combine Chicken, Vegetables, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir the sauce once more and pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and everything is heated through.
Step 5. Serve
Serve the honey chicken stir fry hot, ideally over steamed rice, brown rice, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
2. Tips for Perfect Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables
Prep Everything Before Cooking
Stir fry recipes move fast, so have all your ingredients chopped and measured before you start cooking to avoid burning or overcooking.
Use High Heat for Best Texture
Cooking over high heat helps sear the chicken and vegetables quickly, keeping them juicy inside and crispy outside.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
For an even sear, cook the chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding causes steaming rather than stir frying.
Customize the Spice Level
Adjust the red pepper flakes in the sauce to suit your heat preference. Add more for a kick or leave them out for a milder dish.
Stir the Sauce Before Adding
Cornstarch tends to settle at the bottom, so always give the sauce a good stir right before pouring it into the skillet.
3. Some Variations You Can Try
Swap the Protein
Try using shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef instead of chicken for a different but equally delicious stir fry.
Add More Veggies
Zucchini, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn are great additions to increase the nutritional value and texture variety.
Make It Gluten-Free
Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Go Low-Carb
Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Add Nuts for Crunch
Toss in some roasted cashews or peanuts at the end for added crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
4. What to Eat With Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables
Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice
These fragrant rice varieties balance the sweet and savory flavors of the stir fry perfectly and soak up the delicious sauce.
Brown Rice or Quinoa
For a healthier, fiber-rich base, pair your stir fry with hearty brown rice or protein-packed quinoa.
Noodles
Serve over lo mein or rice noodles to make it a noodle bowl the whole family will enjoy.
Add a light soup on the side to complement the richness of the stir fry and create a more complete meal.
Asian-style Salad
A fresh salad made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the warm stir fry.
This easy Chicken Stir Fry with vegetables is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that brings together sweet, savory, and spicy elements in a balanced way. With lean chicken, fresh veggies, and a flavorful honey garlic sauce, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
