Easy Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something fresh, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes. This simple stir fry combines tender chicken, crisp zucchini, and a light garlic-ginger sauce that coats every bite beautifully. It’s flavorful without being heavy, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something satisfying but not complicated.
Whether you’re trying to use up summer zucchini or just need a quick dinner idea, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry
There are so many reasons this stir fry deserves a regular spot in your dinner rotation:
- Ready in 30 minutes or less
- Healthy and balanced with lean protein and fresh vegetables
- Light yet flavorful garlic-ginger sauce
- Great for meal prep
- Family-friendly and customizable
Unlike takeout stir fry, this homemade version isn’t overly salty or greasy. The zucchini stays tender-crisp, and the sauce lightly coats everything without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 green onions, sliced
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Substitute: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce or omit the honey if preferred.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms for a hearty plant-based option.
- Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or carrots all work well in this stir fry.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, water, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cornstarch fully dissolves. Set aside.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3 – Sauté the Zucchini
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for 3–4 minutes. Stir frequently and cook just until tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking so the zucchini doesn’t become mushy.
Step 4 – Combine and Thicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Give the sauce a quick stir (the cornstarch may settle), then pour it into the pan. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
Step 5 – Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use High Heat: Stir fry cooks quickly. Medium-high heat helps seal in juices and keeps vegetables crisp.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure proper browning.
- Slice Evenly: Uniform pieces cook more evenly.
- Keep Zucchini Crisp: Overcooked zucchini turns watery. Cook just until tender.
- Stir the Sauce Before Adding: Cornstarch settles at the bottom—always whisk again before pouring.
- Prep Everything First: Stir fry moves fast, so have ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Flavor Variations
Want to switch things up? Try one of these delicious variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Teriyaki Style: Replace the sauce with a homemade teriyaki blend.
- Garlic Lover’s Version: Double the garlic for deeper flavor.
- Sesame Flavor: Add a teaspoon of sesame oil at the end for nuttiness.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is versatile and pairs well with:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Jasmine rice
- Quinoa
- Cauliflower rice
- Rice noodles
- Whole wheat noodles
For a lower-carb option, serve it on its own or over sautéed cabbage.
You can also add a simple side salad with sesame dressing for a complete meal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. Keep in mind that zucchini may soften slightly after thawing.
Easy Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Easy Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something fresh, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes. This simple stir fry combines tender chicken, crisp zucchini, and a light garlic-ginger sauce that coats every bite beautifully. It’s flavorful without being heavy, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something satisfying but not complicated.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, water, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until fully combined.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
- Add the sliced zucchini and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Whisk the sauce again, then pour it into the pan.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
- Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top.
- Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
Notes
Use high heat for best texture. Do not overcrowd the pan. Stir the sauce before adding since cornstarch settles. Zucchini should be cooked just until tender-crisp to avoid excess moisture. Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
FAQ About Easy Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Cook as directed and portion into containers. It reheats well for lunches throughout the week.
Why did my zucchini turn watery?
Zucchini contains a lot of water. Cooking it too long or at too low of a temperature can cause it to release excess moisture. Cook quickly over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini works best for texture. Frozen zucchini may become soft and watery when cooked, but it can still be used if drained well.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be white throughout with no pink in the center. An internal temperature of 165°F ensures it is fully cooked.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. A large wok works especially well for bigger portions.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry proves that healthy dinners don’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and a fast cooking time, it’s a practical recipe you’ll turn to again and again. The fresh zucchini, savory sauce, and tender chicken come together in a balanced, flavorful meal that feels both light and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just trying to eat more vegetables, this stir fry is a reliable and delicious choice.