This easy stir fry combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and mushrooms for a tasty meal. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for busy nights!
I love how colorful this dish is! Plus, it takes less time to cook than it does to decide what to watch on TV. Serve it over rice or noodles, and you’re all set! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch to the stir fry. If they’re unavailable, yellow squash or even bell peppers can be good alternatives.
Mushrooms: I prefer button or cremini mushrooms for their mild flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, consider using snap peas or broccoli for a different texture.
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is easy to cook and light. If you’re looking for a change, try using chicken thighs for more flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Sauces: Soy sauce is essential for umami flavor. You can use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. If you want a gluten-free alternative, try tamari. The oyster sauce can be left out if you’re keeping it vegetarian.
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is important for a good stir fry. Here are my top tips:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if your pan is small. This helps it brown rather than steam.
- Cook on medium-high heat and allow the chicken to sear properly, which takes about 5-7 minutes. When it’s golden on the outside and no longer pink inside, it’s done!
Following these steps will give you tender, flavorful chicken that fits perfectly in your stir fry!
Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 8 oz (about 225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs like green onions or pea shoots for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes to whip up this delicious stir fry. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for now.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and the thinly sliced onion (if you’re using it). Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and zucchinis to the pan. Stir-fry these for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender while still keeping a little crunch.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ginger. If you like, add a bit of honey or brown sugar to balance the flavors. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes until well mixed and heated through.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your stir fry a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Maybe a little more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if you desire.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Take the pan off the heat. If you’d like, garnish your dish with fresh herbs like green onions or pea shoots before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your stir fry hot over steamed rice, noodles, or just enjoy it on its own. This meal is quick, fresh, and absolutely delicious!
Happy cooking! 🍽️✨
Can I Substitute the Chicken for a Different Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp, tofu, or even beef as alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp cooks quickly in just a few minutes, while beef may take a bit longer to reach the desired doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No worries! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make This Stir Fry Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu and omit the oyster sauce, using more soy sauce or a vegetarian stir fry sauce. You can also add more veggies for extra flavor and nutrition!
