I remember the first time I made Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry. The smell of garlic sautéing filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to sit down for dinner. This dish is special to me because it reminds me of cozy evenings spent cooking together. Zucchini and chicken are simple ingredients, but when combined, they create a colorful and tasty meal. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. What’s great about this recipe is how it highlights fresh flavors and can be served over rice or noodles for a filling dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal while enjoying lean protein. The bright colors of the zucchini and bell pepper make it visually appealing too. Plus, you can customize it to your taste, making it a versatile favorite. If you want a dish that warms your heart and pleases your taste buds, this stir fry is the way to go.
How to Make Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper, stir-frying for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add the zucchini and soy sauce, continue to stir-fry until the zucchini is tender yet crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
How to Serve Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is best served hot. You can place it over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles to soak up all the flavors. For added freshness, consider garnishing with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. It’s a lovely dish to share with family or friends and makes for a satisfying meal.
How to Store Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
To store any leftovers, let the stir fry cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Just be sure to label it with the date.
Tips to Make Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
- Cut the vegetables and chicken into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the zucchini; you want it to stay a bit crisp.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or snow peas for more variety.
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce for extra flavor before cooking.
Variation
If you want a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the stir fry. You can also make it a vegetarian dish by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw and chop it first for even cooking.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative.
Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. However, it’s best to cook it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing
- 1 piece bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Method
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper, stir-frying for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add the zucchini and soy sauce, continue to stir-fry until the zucchini is tender yet crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles.