If you’re in the mood for something vibrant, nourishing, and downright delicious, Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce is about to become your weeknight hero. This one-pan wonder is bursting with crisp-tender veggies, succulent chicken, and a glossy sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and a hint of tang. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, elevated by just a handful of simple pantry staples and fresh produce. Whether you’re whipping up dinner after a long day or planning an easy crowd-pleaser, this dish never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in the simplicity of this recipe—the everyday ingredients come together to create something truly special. Every component brings its own touch, whether it’s a pop of color, a depth of umami, or just the right bit of crunch. Let’s break down why each one deserves its spot in your skillet.
- Chicken breast: Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for soaking up all the bold flavors of the sauce.
- Cornstarch: Gives the chicken that velvety, tender texture and helps the sauce cling to every bite.
- Vegetable oil: A neutral oil for high-heat stir-frying, ensuring everything cooks up golden and glossy.
- Broccoli florets: Adds a pop of green and a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the honey soy sauce.
- Red bell pepper: Sweet, juicy, and vibrant—it brings color and personality to your pan.
- Carrot: Thinly sliced for quick cooking, carrots add natural sweetness and a pleasant bite.
- Zucchini: Softens just enough while keeping that fresh, summery vibe and a touch of green.
- Garlic: A punch of aroma that infuses the whole stir fry with classic savory depth.
- Fresh ginger: Grated ginger brightens everything with a warm, peppery zing.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: The foundational wave of savory flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- Honey: Provides that irresistible sweetness, balancing the umami and acidity.
- Rice vinegar: Just a splash transforms the sauce with a gentle tang.
- Sesame oil: Adds a distinctive toasty finish that ties everything together.
- Cornstarch slurry: Ensures the sauce thickens up to that signature glossy consistency.
How to Make Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by tossing your thinly sliced chicken breast with cornstarch in a medium bowl. Not only does this simple step ensure the pieces cook up tender and juicy, but it also helps the chicken develop that irresistible light golden crust when it hits the hot pan. Be sure every strip gets a light, even coating—it’s the secret behind that classic takeout texture!
Step 2: Mix the Honey Soy Sauce
Grab a small bowl and whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and your cornstarch slurry. These few ingredients meld into a deeply flavorful sauce with a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and zingy elements. Set it aside—you’ll want it on hand for when the stir fry comes together quick!
Step 3: Stir Fry the Chicken
Heat your pan or wok over medium-high and swirl in the first tablespoon of oil. Working in batches if needed, add the chicken and stir fry for 5 to 7 minutes, turning often so that every side gets an even golden color and the chicken is cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it nearby.
Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
With the skillet still hot, splash in the remaining oil, then pile in your broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Stir fry for about 4 to 5 minutes, just until the veggies are brilliantly vibrant and still have a bit of bite. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger for a final minute—your kitchen will smell just heavenly right about now!
Step 5: Combine and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in your dazzling honey soy sauce, scraping the bowl so you don’t miss a drop. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, watching as the sauce thickens and coats each piece beautifully. That’s when you know your Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce is ready for its big debut!
How to Serve Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions or a generous shower of sesame seeds across your stir fry. If you’d like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha gives an exciting twist. These little details make every bite of the Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This stir fry is fantastic on its own but truly shines when served over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or a tangle of warm noodles. Brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice all work wonderfully. If you’re feeling extra inspired, try pairing it with a simple cucumber salad or your favorite Asian-inspired soup for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn your Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce into lettuce wraps for a fun appetizer, or pile it into meal prep containers for satisfying lunches all week? You can even tuck leftovers into a warm tortilla for a fusion wrap—don’t hesitate to get playful with your plating!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce in an airtight container right after it’s cooled. It will keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option. The flavors continue to develop, resulting in a perfectly delicious next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
To freeze, spoon the cooled stir fry into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. It will stay at its best for up to 2 months—just be aware that some vegetables may soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors remain spot on.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce in a skillet over medium heat until everything is warmed through and the sauce bubbles again. A splash of water or extra soy sauce can help revive the consistency. The microwave works in a pinch, but a quick toss on the stove keeps the veggies crisp and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe. They’ll give you a slightly richer flavor and extra juiciness. Just slice them thinly as you would the breasts and proceed as directed.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version of Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce, simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Double check your other ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
Can I use other vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is endlessly customizable. Snap peas, baby corn, mushrooms, snow peas, or even thin-sliced cabbage all work beautifully. Use what’s in season or what you have on hand for a fresh spin.
Is it possible to make this stir fry vegetarian?
You can! Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu or a mix of your favorite mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian stir fry. The Honey Soy Sauce pairs beautifully with almost any protein or veggie combination.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
If you love extra heat, add a squirt of sriracha, a sprinkle of red chili flakes, or even some finely diced fresh chili to the honey soy sauce mixture. Taste as you go to get it just right for your palate.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about tossing together this Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce—it’s quick, packed with flavor, and effortlessly adaptable to your cravings. Give it a try the next time you’re craving a colorful, crowd-pleasing meal and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Print
Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Honey Soy Sauce is a delicious and quick Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken strips are stir-fried with a colorful array of vegetables and coated in a flavorful honey soy sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Stir Fry:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 carrot (thinly sliced)
- 1 zucchini (sliced into half moons)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
Honey Soy Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Toss chicken strips with cornstarch until coated.
- Make Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry.
- Cook Chicken: Stir-fry chicken in oil until cooked; set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: Cook broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini, then add garlic and ginger.
- Combine: Return chicken to skillet, add sauce, and cook until thickened.
- Serve: Enjoy over rice or noodles, garnished as desired.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (without rice)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
