Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a light and tasty dish that comes together quickly with tender strips of chicken and crisp zucchini slices. The mix of fresh veggies and lean protein makes it a perfect go-to meal when you want something healthy but still full of flavor. The zucchini adds a nice crunch that balances beautifully with the juicy chicken pieces, all wrapped up in a simple, flavorful sauce.
I love making this stir fry because it’s so flexible—sometimes I throw in a handful of garlic or chili flakes for a little extra kick, and other times I keep it mild for a comforting dinner. It’s one of those meals you can easily tweak depending on what you have in your kitchen, and it always turns out great. Plus, it cooks fast, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want dinner ready fast without a lot of fuss.
My favorite way to enjoy this dish is over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, which soaks up all the tasty sauce. It’s a meal that feels fresh and light, but still satisfying, and it never fails to get a thumbs-up from everyone at the table. Whenever I make it, I always find myself wanting just one more bite—there’s something about the combination of chicken and zucchini that just clicks every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein, but thighs work well too if you want juicier meat. You can also swap for tofu or tempeh to make it vegetarian.
Zucchini: It adds a fresh crunch and mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash is a great substitute with a similar texture.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium to control saltiness. For gluten-free, tamari or coconut aminos work well without losing the salty taste.
Honey or Brown Sugar: This balances the sauce with a touch of sweetness. Maple syrup or agave can be used for a vegan alternative.
How Do You Keep Chicken Tender and Veggies Crisp in a Stir Fry?
The key is to cook chicken and veggies separately and not overcook either.
- Cook chicken strips on medium-high heat until just done, about 5-7 minutes, then remove to prevent dryness.
- Sauté garlic and ginger briefly—their flavors release quickly and can burn if left too long.
- Cook zucchini and bell pepper until crisp-tender, about 4-5 minutes; this keeps their texture fresh.
- When adding sauce and chicken back, stir gently and cook only 2-3 minutes to meld flavors without overcooking.
These steps help keep your stir fry balanced with tender chicken and bright veggies every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – I recommend this because it heats evenly and makes stir-frying easier.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – they help you chop everything quickly and safely.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keep your sauce ingredients accurate and balanced.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – perfect for tossing the ingredients without breaking them apart.
- Serving dish – to present your stir fry beautifully once it’s ready.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of sesame oil or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- Include sliced mushrooms, snap peas, or shredded carrots to vary the veggies and add color.
- Use a different protein like shrimp, firm tofu, or beef strips, depending on your preference or what’s in your fridge.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or add hot sauce if you like more heat with your meal.
How to Make Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced (optional)
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp red chili flakes or to taste (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Salt to taste
Time You’ll Need
This delicious stir fry takes about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 10-15 minutes cooking the chicken and veggies for a quick, tasty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), red chili flakes, and black pepper. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook them until they’re golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant and lovely.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the sliced zucchini and diced red bell pepper to the pan. Stir occasionally and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften but remain crisp and fresh.
5. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Return the chicken to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and veggies. Add the water or chicken broth and stir everything together. Let it cook another 2-3 minutes so the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients beautifully.
6. Final Touches and Serving:
Taste your stir fry and add salt or more pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles.
Enjoy your tasty, healthy, and colorful Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Stir Fry?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for faster thawing. Pat dry to remove excess moisture for better searing.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables for Zucchini?
Definitely! Yellow squash, bell peppers, snap peas, or sliced mushrooms work great. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the veggie’s texture to keep them crisp-tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! Increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Fresh sliced chili peppers or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper also add extra heat if you like things spicy.
