Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

One evening, after a long workday and an empty fridge except for a few veggies and some chicken, I tossed everything into a hot skillet with a quick sauce made from pantry staples. I wasn’t expecting much—just dinner on the table. But that improvised meal turned out to be a hit. Since then, chicken stir fry has been my weeknight hero.

If you’re new to cooking, this Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe variation is your perfect starting point. It’s easy, fast, and full of colorful, nutritious ingredients. You won’t need fancy tools or complicated techniques—just a skillet, a few simple ingredients, and 30 minutes.

Why This Recipe is Special

This easy sheet pan dinner-style stir fry is more than just a time-saver—it’s flexible, flavorful, and healthy. It’s packed with lean protein and vibrant vegetables, and the light honey-soy sauce gives a sweet-savory balance that even picky eaters love.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge or trying to sneak more veggies into your meals, this dish has your back.

Ingredients and Preparation

Chicken Breast
Lean, tender, and high in protein. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but chicken thighs work if you prefer juicier, darker meat.

Salt and Pepper
Basic seasoning to enhance the meat’s natural flavor. Always season your protein before cooking.

Olive Oil
Used to sauté the meat and vegetables. It also brings a mild, slightly fruity flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil.

Broccoli Florets
Add a crisp texture and loads of fiber and vitamins. Frozen broccoli works in a pinch—just thaw it first.

Red and Yellow Bell Peppers
These add color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness. Feel free to swap in green peppers, onions, or sugar snap peas.

Carrots
They bring sweetness and a tender-crisp bite. Shredded or sliced both work great.

Ground Ginger and Minced Garlic
These aromatic powerhouses form the flavor base. Fresh garlic and ginger are ideal, but ground versions work when you’re in a rush.

Cornstarch
Used to thicken the stir fry sauce to a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.

Chicken Broth
Adds depth to the sauce. Vegetable broth or even water with a splash of bouillon can be used as alternatives.

Soy Sauce
A key player in delivering umami. Choose low-sodium for a healthier twist. Tamari or coconut aminos work well for gluten-free options.

Honey
Balances the saltiness with just the right amount of sweetness. Maple syrup or agave are good alternatives.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Start by making your sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch, chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. Set it aside—this will be your stir fry’s secret weapon.

Step 2 Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown and fully cooked (around 5 minutes). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3 In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining oil. Toss in your chopped broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender but still crisp.

Step 4 Add the ground ginger and minced garlic to the pan. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—this step unlocks a ton of flavor.

Step 5 Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in your stir fry sauce, stirring everything together until the chicken and veggies are coated evenly.

Step 6 Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it cook for 1 minute to thicken the sauce. The cornstarch will give it that classic glossy finish.

Step 7 Serve hot over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an optional garnish.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Don’t overcook the vegetables—they should be slightly crisp for the best texture. Overcooked veggies get mushy and lose their vibrant color.

Cut everything before you start cooking. Stir fry moves quickly, so having your ingredients prepped and ready is key.

If your chicken browns too quickly, reduce the heat and add a splash of water to prevent burning.

No garlic or ginger? Garlic powder and ground ginger are fine substitutes—just use half the amount.

Wok vs. skillet: A wok is traditional, but a large skillet works just as well. Make sure it’s hot before adding anything.

Serving Suggestions

This stir fry shines when served over:

• White rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice for a classic base.
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
• Noodles like ramen, rice noodles, or even linguine for a fun change.

Add a side of fried wontons or steamed dumplings for a takeout-style experience at home.

Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave in 1-minute bursts, or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is the kind of recipe that turns first-time cooks into confident home chefs. It’s quick, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable—exactly what a beginner needs. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you make any fun substitutions or add your favorite veggies? Drop a comment and let me know how your version turned out. Let’s make dinner time easier, one stir fry at a time.

FAQ About Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

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