Do Share Recipe

Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe That Warms the Soul

I made this easy chicken stir fry recipe last night, and it was honestly one of the best dinners I’ve whipped up in under 20 minutes. The honey and soy sauce combo added that perfect balance of sweet and savory, while the fresh veggies stayed crisp and colorful.

It’s now my go-to when I want something fast but homemade. It even reminded me of the Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe in how it quickly became a family favorite. If you’re into quick wins in the kitchen, this stir fry is for you!

Ingredients: Simple, Fresh, and Flavor-Packed

The beauty of this dish is how a few fresh ingredients can create such bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch cubes. Tender and cooks quickly—perfect for stir frying.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season lightly before cooking to enhance flavor.
2 tbsp olive oil, divided: One for cooking the chicken, one for veggies—use extra virgin for better aroma.
2 cups broccoli florets: Use fresh, not frozen, for a crisp bite.
1/2 yellow bell pepper: Cut into 1-inch pieces. Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
1/2 red bell pepper: Cut into 1-inch pieces. For contrast and more natural sweetness.
1/2 cup baby carrots, sliced: Gives a subtle crunch and color.
2 tsp minced ginger: Fresh is best for that zesty kick.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Aromatic base you don’t want to skip.

For the Stir Fry Sauce

1 tbsp corn starch: Helps thicken the sauce so it coats every bite.
2 tbsp cold water: Activates the cornstarch smoothly.
1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth: Adds a savory, rich background flavor.
3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce: Brings umami without too much salt.
1/4 cup honey: Natural sweetness balances the soy.
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Adds that authentic stir fry aroma.
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but adds a mild heat.

Note: This recipe makes about 4 servings based on the ingredients listed above.

Variations to Suit Every Taste

Want to switch it up? Here are some easy tweaks to make it your own!

Dairy-Free Friendly: This recipe is naturally dairy-free!
Sugar-Free Version: Swap honey for monk fruit syrup or sugar-free maple syrup.
Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or extra chili flakes.
Add Protein: Toss in tofu or shrimp for a fun twist.

And if you’re already in love with comfort meals like the Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe, this chicken stir fry gives you the same homemade feel—only lighter and faster!

Cooking Time

Plan your dinner with these quick times in mind:

Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes

Equipment You Need

Here’s what you’ll need to pull this together:

Large skillet or wok: For high-heat, even cooking.
Wooden spatula or silicone stirrer: For stirring the sauce and veggies.
Sharp knife: To chop chicken and veggies cleanly.
Cutting board: Prep your ingredients safely and quickly.
Mixing bowl: To whisk together your sauce ingredients.

How to Make Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Let’s break down this recipe into super easy steps so anyone can follow along!

Step 1: Make the Sauce

Start by grabbing a bowl and whisking the cornstarch with cold water. This is your thickening base. Then, pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until it’s all combined and smooth. Set aside—this sauce will tie everything together later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken in a single layer (do it in batches if needed). Season with salt and pepper, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat to medium and pour the remaining oil into the pan. Toss in the broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re just tender but still vibrant. Add garlic and ginger next—let them cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Give your sauce a quick whisk (it may have settled) and pour it over the chicken and veggies. Stir gently to combine all the goodness together.

Step 5: Simmer and Serve

Let the whole mixture come to a boil. Stir it gently and let it simmer for about a minute—this activates the cornstarch and thickens the sauce. Once thickened, remove from heat. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here’s what I learned after making this a few times—it keeps getting better!

Use fresh garlic and ginger—it makes a huge difference in flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches for a nice sear.
Keep your veggies crisp by not overcooking them.
Whisk the sauce just before pouring—it settles fast!
Add sesame seeds or green onions at the end for extra texture and taste.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

This dish is super versatile and easy to serve up in fun ways:

Over Steamed Rice: A classic go-to that soaks up the sauce.
With Noodles: Chow mein or even ramen noodles work great.
In Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb, high-flavor option.
As a Meal Prep Bowl: Make extra and pack with quinoa or brown rice for weekday lunches.

If you’ve tried cozy favorites like the Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe, you’ll love how this stir fry feels just as satisfying—but with a fresh twist!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’re eating per serving:

Calories: 343 kcal
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fat: 13g

A balanced, light, and energizing meal!

How to Store the Easy Chicken Stir Fry?

Refrigerating: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in meal-sized portions. Best used within 2 months for top flavor.
Reheating: Microwave on medium or reheat in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dish has so many winning points, here’s why I keep coming back to it:

Fast & Easy: Dinner’s ready in under 20 minutes.
Healthy & Balanced: Loaded with lean protein and veggies.
Customizable: Add your favorite flavors or veggies.
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, big flavor.
Kid-Approved: Mildly sweet sauce keeps even picky eaters happy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Don’t let these mistakes ruin your stir fry game—I’ve learned them the hard way!

Skipping the Sauce Whisk: It needs to be re-whisked before pouring in.
Overcooking Veggies: They should stay a bit crisp—not soggy.
Using Frozen Veggies: They release too much water and can make it mushy.
Crowding the Pan: It lowers the temperature and steams the chicken.
Forgetting to Taste the Sauce: Adjust sweetness or salt before pouring.

More Info for Better Experience

Want to elevate this stir fry even more? Try these ideas:

Add a fried egg on top for extra richness.
Mix in cashews or peanuts for crunch.
Try with hoisin or oyster sauce for a different flavor.
Add mushrooms or snow peas to switch up the texture.

Ben Carraoli