Looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal that fits perfectly into your busy schedule? Chicken stir fry with vegetables and rice is a classic, vibrant dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a medley of crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a fragrant, savory sauce.
This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
The best part? You can customize the vegetables to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand, and the entire meal comes together in under 30 minutes.
Plus, the fluffy rice complements the stir fry perfectly, soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce. Let’s dive into this wholesome, colorful, and satisfying recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken stir fry with vegetables and rice is a perfect blend of convenience and nutrition. It’s:
- Quick and easy – ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and balanced – lean protein from chicken, fiber, and vitamins from fresh vegetables, plus satisfying carbs from rice.
- Highly customizable – swap in your favorite veggies or add spices to suit your palate.
- Full of flavor – a savory sauce that balances sweet, salty, and umami notes.
- Great for leftovers – tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep.
Plus, cooking this stir fry helps you get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a nutritious, homemade meal that beats takeout any day!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil with a high smoke point)
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, carrots, and sliced mushrooms)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)
Equipment
- Large wok or deep skillet – for stir frying
- Sharp chef’s knife – for slicing chicken and vegetables
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls – for marinade and sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring
- Rice cooker or pot – to cook rice
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips. Wash and chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Cook the rice: Begin cooking your rice according to package instructions, preferably jasmine or basmati for fluffy texture. This can cook while you prepare the stir fry.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and set aside.
- Heat the wok or skillet: Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high until shimmering.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken strips to the hot wok, season lightly with salt and pepper, and stir fry for 4-5 minutes until just cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
- Stir fry the vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the mixed vegetables. Stir fry for 4-6 minutes until crisp-tender but still vibrant.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken and vegetables beautifully.
- Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more soy sauce if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve: Spoon the hot stir fry over the cooked rice and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
Want to boost your stir fry’s nutrition? Add leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last minute of cooking.
- Protein swaps: Replace chicken with tofu, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef for variety.
- Vegetable options: Use whatever you have on hand – zucchini, baby corn, water chestnuts, or green beans all work wonderfully.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Spice it up: Add more chili flakes, a splash of sriracha, or fresh sliced chili peppers for heat lovers.
- Meal prep tip: Cook double the rice and double the stir fry, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Rice alternatives: Serve with cauliflower rice or quinoa for lower carb options.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 450 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fat | 10 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 700 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This chicken stir fry with vegetables and rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with some light sides to elevate the dining experience.
- Serve with a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds for a refreshing contrast.
- Complement the meal with steamed dumplings or spring rolls for an Asian-inspired feast.
- For a touch of indulgence, drizzle extra sesame oil or add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Try pairing it with an appetizer like Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite for a crowd-pleasing starter.
Conclusion
Chicken stir fry with vegetables and rice is a versatile and wholesome dish that fits beautifully into any lifestyle. Its quick preparation, vibrant flavors, and balanced nutrition make it a staple recipe for anyone seeking a satisfying homemade meal without fuss.
With endless possibilities to tweak the ingredients, sauces, and veggies, this recipe invites your creativity while guaranteeing delicious results every time.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals ahead for busy days, this stir fry delivers on taste and nutrition. Don’t forget to check out other exciting recipes like Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners to keep your menu fresh and inspiring.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Rice
Description: A quick and healthy chicken stir fry loaded with colorful vegetables served over steamed rice. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken slices and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add remaining oil to the pan and sauté garlic, ginger, onion, and carrot for 3 minutes.
- Add broccoli and bell pepper; cook for another 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce.
- Cook for 2 more minutes, mixing everything well.
- Serve the stir fry hot over cooked jasmine rice.
Nutrition: Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 45 g
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