Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is both healthy and full of flavor. The marinade gives the chicken a savory, slightly sweet taste, while the zucchini adds a fresh crunch. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Plus, it’s versatile—easily adjustable to fit your personal taste. Whether served with rice or noodles, this stir fry is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Marinade:

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

  • ¼ cup light soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey)

  • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar (optional)

• Stir Fry:

  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed

  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil

  • 1 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise and then sliced

  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

  • Ground black pepper, optional

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken to the marinade and mix well. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to marinate.

2. Heat the cooking oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat.

3. Add the garlic and chicken, including the marinade sauce. Stir fry for about 2 minutes or until the chicken is no longer translucent. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate or bowl, keeping the sauce in the pan.

4. If necessary, add a little more cooking oil to the pan. Add the zucchini and stir fry for about 5 minutes or until the zucchini starts to become tender.

5. Return the chicken to the pan, then add the oyster sauce and ground black pepper (if using). Stir fry for another 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the zucchini is tender.

6. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 30 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Swap the protein: You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu to suit different dietary preferences.

• Add extra vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more variety and nutrition.

• Gluten-free option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

• Spicy twist: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, or microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

1. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make the Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry spicier, you can add red pepper flakes, fresh chili slices, or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the dish.

2. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, so the flavor and texture might differ slightly.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and zucchini in advance, but it’s best to stir fry everything just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

4. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe to get the right texture. However, if you must use frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be no longer pink in the center, and the juices should run clear. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

6. Can I substitute the oyster sauce?

Yes, you can substitute oyster sauce with a vegetarian alternative, like mushroom sauce or hoisin sauce, if you prefer a non-seafood option.

7. How long should I marinate the chicken?

The chicken should be marinated for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. You can marinate it for up to 2 hours if you want a more intense taste.

8. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can replace zucchini with other stir-fry vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by swapping out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and ensuring the oyster sauce you use is gluten-free.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something healthy and satisfying. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you serve it over rice or noodles, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.