When it comes to quick, flavorful, and satisfying meals, stir fries are a fantastic choice. But what if you’re not in the mood for a vegetable-packed dish?
Whether you’re a vegetable skeptic, on a low-fiber diet, or simply craving something different, a chicken stir fry recipe with no vegetables can be just as delicious and fulfilling. This recipe focuses on juicy, tender chicken cooked to perfection with a savory sauce that packs incredible flavor without relying on the usual stir fry veggies.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a straightforward protein-rich meal that’s easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great base recipe that can be customized with your favorite seasonings or paired with side dishes to suit your taste.
Ready to dive into a simple yet mouthwatering chicken stir fry that skips the veggies but keeps all the taste? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken stir fry recipe is a game-changer for anyone wanting a classic Asian-inspired dish without the fuss of chopping and cooking vegetables. It’s a perfect balance of tender chicken and a rich, umami-packed sauce that comes together quickly in one pan.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Simple ingredients: No complicated or hard-to-find sauces—just pantry staples.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or alongside noodles.
- Protein-packed: A great option if you want a filling meal without the carbs or veggies.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite spices or add-ins.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Sharp knife for slicing chicken
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl for sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin, bite-sized strips. This ensures quick and even cooking.
- Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and set aside.
- Heat the pan: Place your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it warm up until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Cook the chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the pan in a single layer. Let it sear without moving for 2 minutes, then stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat every piece.
- Thicken the sauce: Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir, then pour it into the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Final touches: Remove from heat. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your chicken stir fry hot with rice, noodles, or on its own.
Tips & Variations
“The key to a great stir fry is high heat and quick cooking. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to get that beautiful sear.”
- Use chicken thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Add aromatics: For extra flavor, throw in sliced green onions or a splash of sesame oil at the end.
- Spice it up: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Swap sauces: If you don’t have oyster sauce, hoisin or fish sauce can be good alternatives—just adjust quantities to taste.
- Skip the cornstarch: If you prefer a lighter sauce, just omit the slurry and simmer the sauce a little longer to reduce it.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 35g |
Fat | 9g |
Carbohydrates | 8g |
Sugar | 5g |
Sodium | 900mg |
Serving Suggestions
This chicken stir fry shines best when served hot and fresh. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Pair with simple egg noodles or rice noodles for a comforting bowl.
- For a low-carb option, enjoy it alongside cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles.
- Try it with a side of Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals to add a fresh contrast.
- For dessert, check out the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious to round out your meal beautifully.
Conclusion
This no-vegetable chicken stir fry is a fantastic recipe for anyone craving a quick, tasty, and protein-rich meal without the fuss of chopping and cooking vegetables. The combination of tender chicken and a savory, slightly sweet sauce creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe is adaptable, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. Give it a try as a solo meal or paired with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes to complement it, like the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken Stir Fry Recipe No Vegetables
Description: A quick and flavorful chicken stir fry without any vegetables. Perfect for a simple, protein-packed meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 green onion, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Mix cornstarch with water and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir for 30 seconds.
- Add chicken slices and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
- Pour in cornstarch mixture and cook until sauce thickens.
- Drizzle sesame oil and mix well.
- Garnish with sliced green onion if desired and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 8 g
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