Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is not only packed with flavor, but it also comes together in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a recipe I hold dear because it’s simple yet satisfying, making it ideal for any occasion—from casual family dinners to fun gatherings with friends.

The best part? You can customize this dish according to your taste or what you have on hand. With juicy chicken breast and vibrant mixed vegetables, all tossed in a savory brown sauce, this stir fry is bound to become a favorite on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of chicken and colorful veggies makes it appealing to kids and adults alike!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and nutrients, this stir fry is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal.
• Delicious Flavor: The savory sauce complements the tender chicken and fresh veggies beautifully, making each bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. This Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry relies on fresh produce and pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime!

For the Chicken

• 20 ounces skinless boneless chicken breast (cut into ¼ inch slices)
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice apple vinegar (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil is fine)
• ¾ cup water
• 2½ tablespoons regular soy sauce
• 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional for color)

For Stir-Frying

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 pound mixed vegetables of your choice
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (peeled and minced)
• Oil (as needed for cooking)

Variations

One of the best things about this stir fry is how flexible it is! You can easily tailor it to fit your preferences or what you have available. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp, tofu, or even beef instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Change up the veggies: Use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand—bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas work wonderfully!
• Add some heat: If you like a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
• Make it saucier: Increase the amount of soy sauce or add a splash of vegetable broth for an extra saucy stir fry.

How to Make Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together water, vinegar (if using), salt, baking soda, and cornstarch. Add the sliced chicken breast and toss until well-coated. Letting the chicken marinate helps tenderize it while enhancing its flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, combine water, soy sauce, sugar, bouillon powder (if using), and dark soy sauce. Mixing these ingredients creates a flavorful base that will coat all your ingredients beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they turn golden brown and are cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Cooking them in batches if necessary ensures they sear nicely rather than steam.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant before adding your mixed vegetables. Stir-frying them together brings out their natural flavors while keeping them crisp!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour in your prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together until well-coated and heated through—about 2-3 minutes. This step allows all those delicious flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and drizzle with toasted sesame oil before serving. Enjoy this delightful Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry with egg fried rice or shrimp lo mein for a complete meal that everyone will rave about!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

Getting the perfect stir fry can seem tricky, but with a few pro tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal in no time!

• Cut chicken evenly: Slicing the chicken into uniform pieces ensures that they cook at the same rate, resulting in juicy, tender bites without any overcooked parts.
• Prep your ingredients ahead: Having all your vegetables chopped and sauces ready to go before you start cooking makes the process quicker and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the sizzle!
• Use high heat: Cooking on high heat helps to achieve that beautiful char and sear. This not only adds flavor but also keeps veggies crisp and vibrant!
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your pan is too full, the chicken and vegetables will steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets that lovely stir-fried texture.
• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables! Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or even bok choy can add great taste and nutrition while keeping it colorful.

How to Serve Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

Serving Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and a lovely crunch.
• Chopped green onions: Freshly sliced green onions not only enhance the dish visually but also provide a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Cilantro: A few sprigs of cilantro can bring an aromatic note that elevates the overall taste experience.

Side Dishes

• Egg Fried Rice: This classic side is fluffy and flavorful, complementing the stir fry perfectly while making for a satisfying meal.
• Shrimp Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with shrimp bring a delightful chewiness that balances the crispness of your stir fry.
• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, steamed jasmine rice is an excellent base for soaking up all those tasty sauces from your stir fry.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with crunchy greens can provide a nice contrast to the warm stir fry, adding freshness and texture to your meal.

Enjoy preparing this vibrant Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry! It’s sure to become a beloved weeknight staple in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is not just a quick meal; it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch at the start of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stir fry to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the stir fry cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry.

Can I use other vegetables in my Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to use whatever mixed vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas all work wonderfully!

How can I make my Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry healthier?

To make your stir fry even healthier, consider using less sugar or opting for low-sodium soy sauce. You can also add more veggies for extra fiber and nutrients.

Can I prepare Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just follow the storage tips above to keep it fresh throughout the week.

What should I serve with my Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry?

This dish pairs perfectly with egg fried rice or shrimp lo mein. You could also serve it over quinoa or whole grain noodles for a healthier twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes for an easy yet satisfying meal any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family and friends, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking!