Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (1)

Jamielyn Nye
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This chicken stir fry is loaded with fresh veggies and coated in a flavorful stir-fry sauce. It’s an easy 30-minute meal better than takeout and perfect for weeknights!

If you love 30-minute meals, try my honey sesame chicken and fried rice with pineapple, too!

Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2)

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Table of Contents

  • Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
  • Key Ingredients
  • Substitutions and Variations
  • How to Make Chicken Stir Fry
  • Cooking Tips
  • 5 star review
  • Recipe FAQs
  • More Dinner Recipes
  • Chicken Stir Fry Printable Recipe

Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

A stir fry is one of my go-to weeknight dinners, along with kung pao chicken, Mongolian beef and Korean ground beef bowls. Everything cooks together in one skillet, and it’s super quick too. This and chow mein chicken are my kind of meals!

Just add in your favorite veggies and serve over Instant Pot rice or chow mein noodles. You could even keep it low-carb and serve it over steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. So many ways to make this chicken stir fry recipe perfect for you!

Key Ingredients

This easy stir fry recipe is loaded with fresh vegetables, chicken, and a delicious sweet and savory sauce that adds easy flavor to this dish!

Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (3)

Find the fullprintable recipewith specific measurements below.

  • Olive oil: This will heat up in a pan to prevent ingredients from sticking. Use sesame oil if preferred.
  • Onion and garlic: Diced onion and minced garlic will be added to the olive oil to enhance the flavors.
  • Vegetables: Chop and slice carrots, all colors of bell peppers, and broccoli floret into bite-sized pieces. These raw vegetables bring so much color, texture, and flavor to this easy stir-fry recipe.
  • Chicken: Cube your boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces that are bite-size to eat easier. This will help cook your chicken evenly.
  • Yoshida’s Gourmet Sauce: There are two types of Yoshida’s Gourmet Sauce; teriyaki and original. I used the original stir fry sauce but either one will work great for this recipe!

Substitutions and Variations

This easy chicken stir fry recipe is great as is but here are some ideas to add to stir fry for flavor. From what vegetable to put in stir fry to type of protein, create the best stir fry you love!

  • Veggies. I like to use a mix of chopped bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, however, feel free to add any extra veggies like mushrooms, onions, squash, and snow peas. Frozen chopped veggies make it easier.
  • Meat. Swap the chicken with beef or shrimp (the cooking time may vary depending on what type of meat you use). I would stay away from using chicken thighs or meat with the bone in them.
  • Sauce. Make your own homemade teriyaki sauce for the chicken and veggies or try a simple sauce with broth, low sodium soy sauce, honey and cornstarch.
  • Extras. Sometimes I’ll add in a handful of raw cashews for an added crunch or some diced pineapple for a hint of sweetness.
  • Spicy. Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the sauce for a little heat.

How to Make Chicken Stir Fry

This easy stir fry with chicken is a simple and delicious dinner! All you need are your favorite vegetables, cooked chicken, and a stir fry sauce.

Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (4)
  • Veggies. Cook vegetables in an oiled skillet (or wok pan) until tender. You want them to be tender enough to eat but still have a crunch. This usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes on medium heat. Once cooked, transfer to a plate.
  • Chicken. Add in the diced chicken and cook until the center is no longer pink about 5 to 6 minutes. Make sure to flip the meat over about halfway through so that both sides get lightly golden.
  • Sauce. Add the cooked vegetables back into the pan with the chicken, then pour in the stir-fry sauce.
  • Simmer. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens up. Then serve over rice and enjoy!

Cooking Tips

Learn all the ways to make this chicken stir fry even easier with these quick and simple tips.

  • Dice evenly. Make sure to cut the chicken and vegetables into similar-sized pieces so that they cook evenly in the skillet.
  • Cook veggies first. If you’re adding in lots of vegetables, it’s best to cook the veggies first. Then set them aside on a plate while the chicken cooks. This way the pan won’t be overcrowded.Once the chicken is done, toss the vegetables back in with the sauce.
  • Don’t overcook. You want to cook the vegetables until they’re tender, but still have a crunch. If you cook them too long, they’ll become mushy when simmering in the sauce.
  • Rice. If you’re making rice on the stove, start it prior to cooking the chicken. It takes about 20 minutes to make, so you want it to be done around the same time as the stir fry is done.
  • Topping it off. Sprinkle sesame seeds, bean sprouts, peanuts or chopped green onions on top of the stir fry chicken when you are ready to serve.
  • What to serve with stir fry. This dish tastes delicious served over coconut rice, fried rice, cooked quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Don’t forget a side of homemade egg rollsor cream cheese wontons!

5 star review

“I made this stir fry and my family loved it 💖”

-Karen
Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (5)

Recipe FAQs

What are three important steps in a good stir-fry?

Using a wok works the best and heating it at a high temperature. Make sure the chicken and vegetables have room to be cooked so that they are not overcrowded in the pan. Lastly, make sure that your chicken is not overcooked.

How to cook this easy stir fry recipe with frozen veggies?

If you are not able to use fresh vegetables, frozen vegetables work well too. You do not need to thaw the frozen vegetables before adding them to the skillet. Just add them directly to the heated skillet and begin cooking. They tend to cook quicker and maybe a little more soft compared to fresh vegetables.

Why is my chicken rubbery and chewy?

This usually means that your chicken was overcooked. The protein fibers have lost their elasticity and create a rubbery texture on the outside and inside. Using a meat thermometer does help if you are worried about overcooking or undercooking your chicken.

How to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing leftovers as the vegetables will become mushy when thawed.

Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (6)

More chicken breast recipes to try include chicken and broccoli stir fry, sheet pan chicken and veggies and sweet and sour chicken.

More Dinner Recipes

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Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (11)

Chicken Stir Fry

4.96 from 46 votes

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Author: Jamielyn Nye

This chicken stir fry is loaded with fresh veggies and coated in a flavorful stir-fry sauce. It's an easy 30-minute meal better than takeout and perfect for weeknights!

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 20 minutes mins

Total Time: 30 minutes mins

Servings: 5

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Ingredients

  • 1-2 Tablespoons olive oil (more if needed)
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup carrots (chopped)
  • 3 bell peppers (chopped, I used 1 red, 1 orange, 1 yellow)
  • 1 head broccoli (chopped)
  • 1 pound chicken (cut into 1 inch pieces)
  • cup Yoshida’s Gourmet Sauce (more as needed)

Optional: sliced mushrooms, snap peas, bok choy or any extra veggies you want to throw in

    For serving: Rice

      Instructions

      • If serving with rice, start cooking it prior to beginning the chicken since it will take the longest to cook.

      • Place the olive oil in a large skillet or wok pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for a couple of minutes. Add the vegetables and garlic to the pan and cook until tender (5-10 minutes). Place the veggies on a plate.

      • Add more olive oil if needed. Then add the chicken to the pan, flipping once the bottom is lightly browned. Salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the center is no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.

      • Once the chicken is cooked, add the vegetables and sauce to the pan. Let simmer for about 5 minutes over medium heat, or until the sauce has thickened.

      • Serve over rice or noodles.

      Notes

      Homemade stir fry sauce: Whisk together 1/4 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup lite soy sauce, 3 Tablespoons honey and 1 Tablespoon corn starch. Add a few red crushed red pepper flakes if desired for a little heat.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 352kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 794mg | Potassium: 808mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 7395IU | Vitamin C: 202.6mg | Calcium: 81mg | Iron: 2.1mg

      Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

      Course: Main Dish

      Cuisine: Chinese

      Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

      Categorized as: 30 Minute Meals, 30 Minute Meals, Asian, Chicken, Dairy-Free, Dinner, Meal Prep, One Pot, One Pot, Stovetop

      Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (12)

      Jamielyn Nye is the founder and recipe creator at I Heart Naptime. She is also the author of the I Heart Naptime Cookbook. Here you will find easy family-friendly recipes for every occasion.

      More about Jamielyn Nye

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      Add a comment

      46 comments

        • Abby
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (17)

        So delicious and quick to make. The whole family loved it. Will make again.

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime Community

          I’m glad you liked the stir fry Abby!

          • Reply
        • Doreen T
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (18)

        Simple to make and delicious. I honestly can’t believe my picky 14 year old not only asked for seconds, but asked me to make it again! WIN!

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime Community

          That’s amazing Doreen! So glad you and your family enjoyed the recipe :)

          • Reply
        • Jen
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (19)

        I made this for dinner. Even though fresh veggies take forever to wash clean and slice, it was a good recipe. The flavor was very mild but good. I will jazz it up next time now that I’ve made once to get the feel of the recipe. I will cook my rice in a chicken broth next time for added flavor too.

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime Community

          Chicken broth is a great idea Jen! I’m glad you enjoyed the stir fry :)

          • Reply
        • Natalie B. Rayla
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (20)

        Thank you for this recipe..my family like it very much..so delicious..

        • Reply
        • Darren
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (21)

        It’s the most basic recipe I’ve seen which starts from the fundamentals and I see myself building it up over time. I couldn’t find any sauce in the shop but bought sweet and sour sauce which contains half of the fresh ingredients but I’m still going to use the core ingredients and add a bit of the sauce and will try to source some stir fry sauce.

        • Reply
        • Lora

        Which sauce of the Yoshida’s Gourmet sauce are you suppose to use for this recipe. Original or teriyaki?

        • Reply
          • Jamielyn Nye

          I typically use the original, but either will work :)

          • Reply
        • Sandy C
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (22)

        Yummy! I used a leftover sauce from a previous Chinese recipe but it was oh so good! Quick and easy too!

        • Reply
          • Taylor @ I Heart Naptime

          Sounds delicious! Glad it worked out great for you, Sandy :)

          • Reply
        • Karen
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (23)

        I made this stir fry and my family loved it 💖

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime

          So happy to hear it was a success, Karen!

          • Reply
        • Ashley
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (24)

        So easy and delicious. My family loves anything with an Asian flare. Will add this to monthly meal plan.

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime

          Glad they loved it! :)

          • Reply
        • Raquel
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (25)

        This was really good and easy to make! I did end up adding a little bit extra sauce for more flavor

        • Reply
        • Jen
        • Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (26)

        Love how easy this is to get on the table! Perfect way to change up our boring chicken dinner routine.

        • Reply

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      Chicken Stir Fry Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

      FAQs

      What are the 3 rules of stir-frying? ›

      Food & Dining

      The first is to cook your protein and your vegetable separately, and combine them only after both are fully cooked. A second rule of thumb for stir-frying: Choose one vegetable per stir-fry. Finally, always remember to add liquid only after everything is more or less finished cooking.

      How to make the ultimate stir-fry? ›

      How to make a stir-fry
      1. Prepare all the ingredients before turning on the heat. ...
      2. Slice meat and vegetables for maximum surface area. ...
      3. Use a wok or cast-iron pan. ...
      4. The aromatics should be cooked low and slow. ...
      5. But the stir fry needs to be cooked fast and hot. ...
      6. Add ingredients according to cook time. ...
      7. Stir your ingredients often.
      Jan 25, 2024

      Is stir-fry healthy to lose weight? ›

      Yes, stir fry vegetables are a great option for weight loss. Stir-frying is a low-calorie cooking method that helps to retain the nutrients in the vegetables while also providing a delicious and flavourful meal. The key to making a healthy stir fry is to use fresh vegetables and lean proteins.

      What not to put in stir-fry? ›

      Using the Wrong Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or peanut oil, to prevent burning. Olive oil, for instance, might not be suitable for high-heat stir-frying. Adding Too Much Sauce: While sauce adds flavor, using too much can make the stir-fry soggy.

      What is the secret ingredient in stir-fry? ›

      According to Food & Wine, ketchup is the ultimate way to take the flavor of homemade stir fry up a level, thanks to its sweet and sour flavor profile. It just might be the easiest cooking hack to elevate your home cooking to that of your favorite take-out.

      When should you add soy sauce in stir-fry? ›

      Heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok, then fry the chilli and garlic for 1 min. Add the veg and toss to coat in the oil. Fry for 2-3 mins, then add the soy and chilli sauce, mixing well. Cook for 2-3 mins more until the veg are tender.

      Should I add soy sauce to stir-fry? ›

      Soy sauce, sesame oil, a bit of vinegar, or store-bought stir-fry sauces are easy to add to the dish and most stir-fry recipes will include a suggested mixture of liquid. If you don't really have a sauce planned, a bit of bottled soy sauce and some diced garlic or ginger will make a nice basic stir-fry sauce.

      When should I add sauce to stir-fry? ›

      Add liquid only after everything finishes cooking. Once the protein cooks through, add sauce to the pan, and heat through. Drizzle sauce down the sides of the pan with a ladle. If using tofu, simmer for several minutes in sauce before adding veggies.

      What goes first in stir-fry? ›

      Stir-fry onions first, then add hard vegetables such as carrot and broccoli. Quick-cooking vegetables, such as snow peas, leafy greens and bean sprouts, should be added towards the end of cooking. If using vegies that have a combination of both textures, such as gai laan, add the stems first and the leaves later.

      How to improve chicken stir-fry? ›

      8 Secrets for a Better Chicken Stir-Fry
      1. Have everything prepped. ...
      2. Cut everything properly. ...
      3. Consider using boneless chicken thighs. ...
      4. Dry all ingredients. ...
      5. Consider marinating the chicken. ...
      6. Use a large wok or a very large skillet. ...
      7. Get your pan nice and hot. ...
      8. Sear the chicken.
      May 17, 2021

      What spices to use in stir-fry? ›

      Best Herbs And Spices For Stir Fry
      1. Ginger. Ginger root is one of the most popular spices used in stir frys. ...
      2. Cumin. Cumin has an intense aroma with warm, earthy flavours and tart undertones. ...
      3. Galangal. ...
      4. Chilli. ...
      5. Turmeric. ...
      6. Coriander. ...
      7. Mint. ...
      8. Basil.

      What is unhealthy about stir-fry? ›

      Take-out stir-fries tend to be loaded with sodium and may be high in refined carbs like rice and noodles. Making them at home will give you more control over the ingredients so you can enjoy a healthier stir-fry.

      What is the best oil for stir-frying? ›

      So many different oils, the good news is you can stick with what you know – canola is great! The best oils for stir frys are the oils with the higher smoke points. These tend to be the “thinner” oils such as peanut, grapeseed or canola.

      Is chicken stir fry good for you? ›

      Each serving of chicken and veggies is only around 170 calories with only 4 grams of fat! We chose to wrap the stir fry up in tortillas and make healthy fajitas which was a great decision. Me and the boyfriend enjoyed a perfect lunch with just the right amount of leftovers to bring to work the next day.

      What are the elements of a good stir-fry? ›

      A great stir-fry typically consists of four important components: protein, vegetables, aromatics, and sauce. Standard stir-fry starts with one pound of protein and two pounds of vegetables, and a basic stir-fry sauce (recipe below). You can add aromatics or herbs to change the flavor profile of your dish.

      What are the principles of stir-frying? ›

      The principle behind making a stir fry is to cook your ingredients quickly in a small amount of very hot oil. To keep frying it as fast as possible, it's important to properly prepare all your ingredients. So before you turn up the heat, we recommend you: Marinade any meat, fish or tofu in your choice of sauce.

      How do you keep stir-fry from getting soggy? ›

      Stir fry cooks fast and hot so make sure you are using your heaviest frying pan or wok and are stirring continuously. Don't overload your wok as the ingredients will become soggy. You can cook things in batches if necessary, for example, you can cook the protein first and set it aside to add back in later.

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