Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry Recipe
This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish combining tender chicken thigh pieces with fresh zucchini in a savory soy-based sauce enhanced by garlic and oyster sauce. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it offers a balanced mix of protein and vegetables with an easy stir-fry technique that locks in vibrant flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless chicken thigh, cut bite sized
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup light soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar (optional)
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise and then sliced
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- Ground black pepper, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with cornstarch, light soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), rice wine vinegar (if using), and smashed garlic. Mix well to coat all pieces thoroughly and set aside to marinate for 30 minutes.
- Heat the Cooking Oil: Place a pan or wok over medium-high heat and add the cooking oil. Let the oil heat until it shimmers, ensuring it is hot enough for stir frying.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken and all the marinade liquid into the hot pan. Stir fry continuously for about 2 minutes or until the chicken loses its translucency. Immediately remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a large plate or bowl, reserving the sauce in the pan.
- Stir Fry the Zucchini: If the pan seems dry, add a small amount of additional cooking oil. Add the sliced zucchini to the pan and stir fry for about 5 minutes, or until the zucchini is starting to become tender but still retains some slight crunch.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the pan with the zucchini. Add the oyster sauce and, if desired, sprinkle with ground black pepper. Stir fry everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
- Serve: Remove the stir fry from heat and transfer to serving dishes. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
- You can substitute chicken breast if preferred, but cooking time might vary slightly.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Adjust sugar or honey quantity based on your desired sweetness.
- Adding fresh chili or chili flakes can provide a spicy kick.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Keywords: Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry, Asian Stir Fry, Quick Chicken Dinner, Healthy Stir Fry, Easy Weeknight Meal
Find it online: https://busyrecipe.com/chicken-zucchini-stir-fry-recipe/