If there’s one dish that has the perfect balance of speed, flavor, and nutrition, it’s a good stir-fry. And when it comes to pairing tender, juicy chicken with the fresh bite of seasonal vegetables, nothing hits the spot quite like Chicken and Zucchini Stir-Fry.
This dish is the ultimate answer to the “What’s for dinner?” dilemma. With a handful of pantry staples, some fresh zucchini, and a few simple cooking techniques, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of recipe that works for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or even as an impressive but effortless weekend dinner for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Zucchini Stir-Fry
- Quick & Easy – From chopping board to dinner plate in just 25 minutes.
- Healthy & Balanced – Packed with lean protein, nutrient-rich zucchini, and a low-fat cooking method.
- One-Pan Wonder – Less mess, minimal cleanup.
- Customizable – Easily adapt to your taste or whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Stays delicious for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make this stir-fry taste amazing without overcomplicating the shopping list:
For the Stir-Fry:
- Chicken breast – Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking.
- Zucchini – Fresh, firm, and sliced into half-moons for the perfect bite.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for that signature stir-fry aroma.
- Ginger – Adds warmth and depth.
- Canola or vegetable oil – Neutral oil that can handle high heat.
For the Sauce:
- Soy sauce – The umami-rich backbone of the dish.
- Chicken broth – Adds body and depth to the sauce.
- Mirin – A touch of sweet complexity.
- Brown sugar – Balances the savory flavors.
- Sesame oil – Nutty and fragrant finishing touch.
- Cornstarch – To thicken the sauce to that perfect glossy coating.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps, as this will ensure an even, silky sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat a teaspoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add half the sliced chicken in a single layer, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Remove to a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add garlic and ginger. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Avoid browning them to keep the flavor delicate.
4. Build the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce into the pan. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until it begins to thicken and becomes glossy.
5. Add the Zucchini
Toss the zucchini into the skillet and stir-fry for 2 minutes. It should be tender-crisp — not mushy.
6. Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing everything together until well coated in sauce. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced scallions.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken and Zucchini Stir-Fry
- Slice chicken thinly – This ensures quick cooking and tenderness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches to maintain a golden sear.
- High heat is key – Stir-fries should cook fast to lock in freshness.
- Prep everything first – Once you start cooking, things move quickly.
Recipe Card – Quick Reference
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 4
Calories (per serving): ~280 kcal
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 500g (1 lb), thinly sliced |
| Zucchini | 2 medium, sliced |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Ginger | 1 tbsp, minced |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Mirin | 1 tbsp |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Canola oil | 3 tsp |
Serving Suggestions
- With Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic pairing.
- Over Brown Rice – For a heartier, fiber-rich option.
- With Stir-Fried Noodles – Toss with udon or soba noodles.
- As a Low-Carb Meal – Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add sriracha or chili flakes.
- Teriyaki Twist – Replace soy sauce and sugar with teriyaki sauce.
- Ginger-Scallion Style – Increase ginger and add fresh scallions at the end.
- Garlic Lover’s Version – Double the garlic and add roasted garlic paste.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat.
- Avoid freezing — zucchini loses its texture when thawed.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, they’ll be juicier and more flavorful, but slightly higher in fat.
Q: Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely — it’s great for soaking into rice or noodles.
Q: How do I keep zucchini from going soggy?
Cook quickly over high heat and avoid covering the pan.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Zucchini Stir-Fry is the kind of dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to mean bland food. It’s a beautiful combination of tender meat, fresh vegetables, and a sauce that’s as glossy as it is flavorful. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this is a dish you’ll keep coming back to again and again.
