Protein-Packed Chicken Stir-Fry

Name: Protein-Packed Chicken Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

I absolutely love creating quick and healthy meals, and this Protein-Packed Chicken Stir-Fry has become a favorite in my kitchen. In just about 30 minutes, I can whip up a delicious and nutrient-dense dish featuring tender chicken and colorful vegetables. The combination of fresh ginger and garlic adds a fragrant touch that elevates the flavor while keeping everything light. Whether I’m prepping for a busy week or hosting friends, this recipe hits the spot every time!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:50:27.350Z

When I first experimented with stir-frying, I was amazed by how quickly and effortlessly I could create a wholesome meal. The key is to keep the chicken and veggies moving in the pan to ensure even cooking without losing their crunch. I also love that I can tailor the vegetables based on what I have on hand, making it a flexible and forgiving recipe.

Another aspect that really makes this dish stand out is the marinade. Using a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh ginger not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with tremendous flavor. After making this several times, I’ve found that letting the chicken marinate even for a short while—around ten minutes—yields much juicier and tastier results!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein to fuel your day
Quick cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights
Colorful vegetables add a vibrant touch and extra nutrients

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

In this Protein-Packed Chicken Stir-Fry, the choice of vegetables is crucial. Not only do they bring color to the dish, but each vegetable also serves a specific purpose. For instance, adding bell peppers contributes a sweet crunch, while broccoli florets create a heartiness and snap that balances the tender chicken. If you prefer a different crunch or flavor profile, consider substituting asparagus or zucchini, which can be cooked in a similar timeframe and provide their own unique twist to the dish.

Another key ingredient in this stir-fry is the marinade. The soy sauce not only adds saltiness but also enhances the umami flavor of the chicken. Sesame oil enriches this marinade with a nutty depth that complements the freshness of the ginger and garlic. If you're looking to reduce sodium, a low-sodium soy sauce can be used, or alternatively, coconut aminos can provide a similar taste with less salt.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

When cooking the chicken, make sure your skillet or wok is properly heated before adding the meat. This initial high heat helps to sear the chicken, creating golden edges and maximizing flavor. Aim for a temperature where the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke—this ensures your chicken browns nicely without overcooking. If you notice the chicken sticking, it may be a sign that the pan isn’t hot enough yet.

Stir-frying relies heavily on quick cooking times at high heat, so be prepared to keep everything moving. Encourage even cooking by using a spatula to flip the ingredients every 30 seconds. This technique not only helps maintain the vibrant color of the vegetables but also ensures they remain crisp-tender, preventing them from becoming mushy. Remember, the goal is to cook until the vegetables are bright and slightly tender while still retaining their color.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious stir-fry:

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Make sure to prep all your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stir-fry:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Toss in the sliced bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender but crisp.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over rice or quinoa.

Enjoy your colorful and protein-packed meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables based on what you have available. You can also add some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick!

Storage and Meal Prep

This stir-fry is perfect for meal prepping! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, store the chicken and vegetables separately from the rice or quinoa. When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium heat to restore that desirable stir-fry texture, rather than using the microwave, which can make the vegetables limp.

If you're considering freezing the dish, the best approach is to freeze the chicken and vegetables in portions prior to cooking. Prepare a single batch of the marinade and toss it with the raw components, storing them in freezer-safe bags. When you're ready to cook, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then proceed with the recipe as written, adjusting cooking times as needed.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Protein-Packed Chicken Stir-Fry, consider garnishing it with toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions before serving. These toppings enhance the texture and add a burst of flavor that ties the dish together. For an added crunch, you might also sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.

This dish can also serve as a base for other ingredients you have on hand. Adding nuts like cashews or peanuts can introduce healthy fats and additional protein. Alternatively, serve your chicken stir-fry over a bed of leafy greens for a light and fresh take, transforming it into a refreshing salad that’s perfect for warmer days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before slicing and marinating.

→ What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.

→ Is it possible to meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! Just store the stir-fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms are great additions or substitutes!