Get ready to fall hard for Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry—a weeknight dinner hero you can whip up in no time! Bursting with juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a glossy, savory sauce that clings to every bite, this stir fry is endlessly customizable and so much better than takeout.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Faster than takeout: From start to finish, Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry comes together in about 25 minutes—perfect for busy nights!
- Crisp, colorful veggies: You can use whatever veggies you have in the fridge, and each one stays vibrant and just-tender thanks to quick blanching.
- Silky, flavor-packed chicken: A quick marinade guarantees ultra-juicy bites with real restaurant-style texture.
- Versatile & family-friendly: You can easily adjust the flavors, switch up the veggies, or even make it vegetarian—everyone at the table will be happy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients transform into such a stunning Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry! Each component—chicken, sauce, and those gorgeous vegetables—plays a key role in creating layers of flavor, succulence, and vibrant color.
- Chicken breast: Slice it thin for quick, even cooking; semi-freezing helps with perfect slicing!
- Shaoxing rice wine: Infuses a little complexity and tenderizes, but totally optional if you don’t have it.
- Kosher salt and baking soda: Just a pinch keeps the chicken seasoned and extra juicy.
- Cornstarch: The secret to that silky, velvet-like coating on the chicken.
- Soy sauce (regular & dark): Adds deep, savory umami—the dark soy is mainly for color, so skip if you don’t have it.
- Granulated sugar: Rounds out the savoriness with a subtle sweetness.
- Chicken bouillon powder: Optional, but intensifies the overall savoriness of the sauce.
- Toasted sesame oil: A drizzle at the end gives toasty, nutty fragrance.
- Mixed vegetables: Use a blend like broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and snow peas for lots of color and flavor.
- Garlic & ginger: Essential aromatics—don’t skip them!
- Neutral oil: For stir frying everything to glossy perfection.
Variations
One of the greatest things about Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is how endlessly adaptable it is! Swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, tailor the flavors, or make substitutions to fit any dietary needs—no stress, all flavor.
- Swap the protein: Try tofu, shrimp, pork, or even thin-sliced beef for a new twist.
- Go low-sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce, and taste as you go to keep your sauce in check.
- Add a kick: Stir in a little chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or sliced fresh chilies for gentle heat.
- Change up the veggies: Water chestnuts, baby corn, snap peas, or asparagus make fun and crunchy additions!
- Make it gluten-free: Swap tamari for soy sauce and use gluten-free cornstarch if needed.
How to Make Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
This first step is what makes your chicken incredibly tender and “velvety” like you get at your favorite Chinese restaurant! In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with water, Shaoxing wine (if using), salt, and a touch of baking soda—this mixture plumps each piece. Add cornstarch next to coat, then finish with a drizzle of oil. Stir well and set aside to marinate while you prep your other ingredients. If you’re feeling fancy, let it go overnight in the fridge for even more flavor!
Step 2: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
Mix up the magic! In a bowl, whisk together water, both soy sauces, sugar, chicken bouillon (if using), cornstarch, and sesame oil. Make sure there are no lumpy bits—this is what creates the glossy, rich sauce that ties your Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry together. Set it aside until it’s showtime.
Step 3: Blanch the Vegetables
Bring a pot of water to a boil and give your veggies a quick dip—this keeps their colors vibrant and texture crisp-tender. Sturdier veggies like carrots and broccoli go in first, while delicate snow peas or bell peppers need just a flash. Drain well and set aside. It may seem like an extra step, but it makes a gorgeous difference in your final stir fry!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a hot wok or deep sauté pan. In go the marinated chicken slices—spread them out so each piece gets contact with the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for golden edges, then flip to finish. Don’t overcrowd; work in batches if needed for truly tender, juicy chicken. Set cooked chicken aside on a plate.
Step 5: Build Flavor & Combine
Reduce heat, add a tiny splash more oil if needed, and stir fry the garlic and ginger until fragrant (don’t let them burn!). Pour in your well-blended sauce—a little at first, stirring constantly as it thickens, then the rest. When it’s bubbling and shiny, toss in the chicken and then the blanched vegetables. Stir enthusiastically so every piece is slicked with that addictive sauce. Serve your Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry piping hot with steamed rice or lo mein!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry
- Slice Like a Pro: For uniform chicken slices, pop the chicken in the freezer for 15–20 minutes to firm up before slicing—this prevents tears and helps every piece cook evenly.
- Perfectly Glossy Sauce: Always whisk your sauce ingredients thoroughly before pouring into the wok, especially if it’s been sitting—cornstarch settles fast!
- Stir Fry in Batches: Overcrowding the pan will steam the chicken and veggies, so work in batches for the best color and texture.
- Veggie Timing: Add heartier veggies (like broccoli and carrots) to boiling water first, and tender ones (like snow peas or bell peppers) closer to the end to keep everything crisp and vibrant.
How to Serve Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry
Garnishes
Give your Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry a final flourish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, a handful of thinly sliced scallions, or even fresh cilantro. If you like heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil really wakes up the flavors!
Side Dishes
This stir fry is a natural alongside a fluffy bowl of jasmine rice or a tangle of lo mein noodles. For extra crunch and contrast, serve with a quick cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings—whatever your family loves best!
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling your stir fry into mini lettuce cups for an appetizer party, serving over brown rice for extra nutrition, or even layering atop crispy noodles for a fun, textural twist. Individual bowls with extra sauce on the side and chopsticks make for an especially inviting presentation of Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool everything to room temperature before storing to maintain the best texture and freshness in your Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry.
Freezing
Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry actually freezes quite nicely! Let the stir fry cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. For best quality, use within 2 months. Note that delicate veggies may soften slightly once thawed, but the flavors will still shine.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently in a wok or skillet over medium-low heat, stirring in a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and keep the veggies vibrant. Microwave works in a pinch—use short bursts and stir occasionally to heat evenly.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen vegetables in Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain the vegetables well (microwaving works), then quickly blanch or stir fry to remove any extra moisture before adding to the sauce. This helps prevent your stir fry from getting soggy.
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What’s the best way to slice the chicken for stir fry?
Semi-freezing the chicken breast for about 15–20 minutes makes it easy to slice thinly and evenly against the grain. Thin slices ensure quick, juicy cooking—no tough pieces!
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Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Whisk the sauce together and refrigerate in a jar for up to 3 days. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as the cornstarch will settle at the bottom.
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Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry?
Definitely! Swap the chicken with firm tofu or even tempeh—just pat them dry, cube, and sauté until golden. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and you’ll still get that irresistibly glossy sauce coating those vegetables!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re on the hunt for a speedy weeknight dinner or a vibrant way to brighten up your table, Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry brings everyone together. I hope you’ll give this recipe a spot in your regular rotation—you’ll be amazed by how satisfying, adaptable, and downright delicious it is. Dig in and enjoy every flavorful bite!
PrintChicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stir Fry
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry. Tender marinated chicken stir-fried with a colorful mix of vegetables in a flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the marinated chicken:
- 20 ounces skinless boneless chicken breast cut into 1/4 inch slices (about 2 chicken breasts)
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt (fine salt is okay too)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil is fine)
For the stir fry sauce:
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 1/2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional for color)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For the rest of the dish:
- 1 pound mixed vegetables of your choice cut into desired size (We used broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, mushrooms, and snow peas.)
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced (about 2-3 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon ginger peeled and minced (about 1 inch knob)
- Oil as needed for cooking (any neutral oil)
Instructions
- To marinate the chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast, water, Shaoxing rice wine, salt, and baking soda. Mix until the chicken has absorbed most of the liquid. Add the cornstarch and mix until the chicken is well coated. Finish the marinade by adding the oil. Set aside to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients until well mixed.
- Blanch the vegetables: Cook the mixed vegetables in boiling water until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Make the chicken with mixed vegetables: Stir fry marinated chicken until cooked through. Add garlic and ginger, then pour in the sauce. Simmer until thickened, then add the vegetables. Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Notes
- Freeze the chicken for easier cutting.
- If using frozen vegetables, blanch and drain them before use.
- Regular soy sauce is recommended over low-sodium varieties for this recipe.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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