Description
This quick and flavorful Zucchini Stir Fry features tender chicken sautéed with fresh zucchini and onions, coated in a savory ginger garlic sauce with a hint of spice. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy, healthy meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 cloves minced garlic (about 1 tablespoon)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Vegetables & Garnishes
- 2 medium zucchini (or yellow squash or mix), sliced into 1/4-inch thick half moons
- 1 large red or yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped green onion (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar. Mix well and set aside while preparing other ingredients to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl or measuring cup, mix together the remaining 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, minced ginger, minced garlic, water, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Set aside.
- Prep Vegetables: Trim the ends of the zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, then slice crosswise into 1/4-inch thick half moons. Thinly slice the onion. Having all ingredients ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and its liquid. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced onion and cook until tender and beginning to brown, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Sauce and Vegetables: Give the prepared sauce a quick stir, then pour it into the skillet with the onions. Cook for 30 seconds until slightly thickened. Add the zucchini slices and cook until they just begin to soften, about 3 minutes, stirring gently to coat in sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked chicken to combine everything evenly. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onion if desired. Serve hot for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Notes
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
- Substitute yellow squash for zucchini if preferred.
- For a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes to taste.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
