Chicken Stir-Fry recipe

Chicken stir-fry is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver, combining speed, flavor, and flexibility in one skillet. Crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a savory-sweet sauce come together for a dish that satisfies without the stress of complicated cooking.

This versatile meal embraces whatever ingredients are on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, or even chickpeas can shine alongside your protein of choice, making it perfect for using leftovers or creating new flavor combinations every time.

With a simple formula for the sauce and quick cooking techniques, this stir-fry balances sweet, savory, and nutty notes effortlessly. Cashews add crunch, garlic adds depth, and the result is a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish ready in under 30 minutes.

Chicken Stir-Fry Ingredients

Chicken Breast – The tender, juicy centerpiece that absorbs every hint of flavor from the sauce, creating a satisfying and protein-packed base for the stir-fry.

Broccoli – Adds crisp freshness and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the chicken while bringing a subtle earthy crunch.

Bell Pepper – Sweet, colorful, and aromatic, it brightens the skillet with natural sweetness and texture.

Garlic – Infuses the dish with savory depth, enhancing every layer of flavor with its warm, aromatic punch.

Cashews – Provide a delightful crunch and nutty richness, rounding out the dish with a satisfying textural contrast.

Soy Sauce & Honey – The dynamic duo that forms the savory-sweet glaze, marrying all the ingredients in perfect harmony.

Sesame Oil – A fragrant finishing touch that lifts the stir-fry with its signature nutty aroma.

Recipe Tips for Chicken Stir-Fry

1. Prep Ingredients Ahead – Stir-fry moves fast, so chopping vegetables and slicing chicken before you heat the pan ensures everything cooks evenly. Prepping sauces and measuring spices in advance keeps the process smooth and stress-free.
2. High Heat is Key – Cooking over high heat allows the chicken to sear quickly, locking in juices, while vegetables stay crisp and vibrant. Avoid overcrowding the pan; working in batches if needed prevents steaming instead of stir-frying.
3. Customize Your Flavors – Don’t hesitate to swap or add vegetables depending on season or preference. Carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms all work beautifully. Adjust the sauce with extra honey for sweetness or chili flakes for a subtle kick.

What to Serve with Chicken Stir-Fry

1. Steamed Jasmine or Brown Rice – Fluffy rice soaks up the savory-sweet sauce perfectly, creating a comforting base that balances the bold flavors of the stir-fry. Brown rice adds a nutty undertone and extra fiber.
2. Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice – For a lighter, protein-packed option, serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice. These alternatives absorb flavors well and offer a slightly different texture while keeping the meal wholesome.
3. Simple Green Salad – A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, saucy stir-fry. Arugula, cucumber, and shredded carrots are excellent choices for added crunch and color.

FAQ About Chicken Stir-Fry

Q1: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, tofu, or even chickpeas work wonderfully. Adjust cooking time based on the protein chosen to ensure it cooks evenly.

Q2: How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a few extra minutes or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water to achieve a richer, clingy texture.

Q3: Can I prep this stir-fry ahead of time?
Yes, chop vegetables and slice chicken in advance. Store separately and combine just before cooking to maintain freshness and texture.

Q4: What if I don’t have cashews?
Almonds, peanuts, or even sunflower seeds make excellent substitutes, adding a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

Chicken Stir-Fry

When you need a dinner that’s both quick and adaptable, a stir-fry is an ideal solution. It has the remarkable ability to elevate almost any combination of ingredients in your kitchen. Leftover rice becomes irresistible, proteins like tofu, shrimp, or beef are enhanced, and even chickpeas achieve a surprisingly satisfying texture and flavor. While stir-fries allow for tremendous flexibility, following a reliable framework ensures consistently impressive results.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 5 People

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1″ pieces
• 1 head broccoli separated into small florets
• 1 bell pepper cored, seeded, and chopped
• 2 garlic cloves finely minced
• 1/3 cup raw cashews
• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 2 tsp. toasted sesame oil
• 1 Tbsp. canola oil
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Step 1
2. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil, whisking until thoroughly blended.
3. Step 2
4. Heat canola oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and garlic, stirring continuously until the vegetables soften, approximately 5 minutes. Incorporate the chicken, cooking and tossing occasionally until evenly browned and fully cooked, about 8 minutes. Mix in the cashews and season with freshly ground black pepper.
5. Step 3
6. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking, stirring intermittently, until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly, roughly 5 minutes.

Notes

This rendition maintains the original recipe’s clarity and instructions while enhancing readability and stylistic sophistication.