If you’re craving a delicious, wholesome meal that comes together in a flash, look no further than this Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce that dances with sesame notes. Whether you’re pressed for time or just want a vibrant, healthy dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes to prepare and share with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to creating the bold flavors, satisfying textures, and colorful presentation that make this stir fry a standout. Each item brings something important to the table, from the juicy chicken to the crunchy veggies and the rich sesame essence.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce, making it silky and flavorful.
- ¼ cup tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos): Provides the salty umami backbone of this dish with a gluten-free option.
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry (optional): A subtle flavor booster that brings a touch of sophistication, but you can skip it if you like.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the savory with a hint of sweetness to round out the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses the stir fry with its distinctive nutty aroma and richness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar): Offers a gentle tang that brightens all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder): Thickens the sauce for that perfect clingy texture.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil: Ideal for stir frying thanks to its high smoke point and mild taste.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces): The lean protein star of the dish that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning that enhances every bite.
- 1 red bell pepper (deseeded and chopped): Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch.
- 1 small carrot (thinly sliced): Brings subtle sweetness and a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides a hearty, nutritious green with great texture.
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped): Lends a mild, savory foundation to the vegetable medley.
- 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger: Injects zesty warmth and freshness.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Delivers bold savory punch and aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Toasted garnish that adds crunch and nuttiness.
- 1 green onion (sliced): Fresh topping for a burst of mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Sauce
Start off this Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe by combining the chicken broth, tamari soy sauce, dry sherry, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Whisking these together creates a luscious sauce that will coat every ingredient perfectly, melding sweet, savory, and tangy flavors into one delicious bite.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Perfection
Heat one tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer and season them generously with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown color, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring carefully to ensure even cooking. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside; you’ll bring all the flavors back together later.
Step 3: Sauté Vibrant Vegetables
Using the same pan and juices left from the chicken, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the red bell pepper, onion, carrot, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry these until they’re just tender but still retain their delightful crunch, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes. The colors will brighten, adding a fresh energy to your dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as to your palate.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Aromatics, and Sauce
Return the browned chicken to the pan, and add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Stir everything together for about 30 seconds until those fragrant aromatics release their magic. Then pour in your prepared sauce, mixing well. Keep stir-frying for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats every piece, locking in moisture and creating a glossy finish that shouts irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Get Ready to Enjoy
Just before serving, sprinkle the dish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. These final touches add texture and a fresh burst of flavor that truly elevates this Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe to restaurant-quality levels, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the sesame seeds and green onions as a garnish not only enhances the flavor but also gives your stir fry a lovely visual appeal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat, or a drizzle of extra sesame oil to deepen the aroma before serving.
Side Dishes
This Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. You could also serve it alongside noodles for a comforting twist. Steamed or lightly pickled vegetables can add more crunch and freshness on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and family-friendly presentation, serve the stir fry in lettuce cups, letting each person create their own wrap. Another idea is to top it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You could even portion it into meal prep bowls for an inviting, grab-and-go lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe in an airtight container and pop it into the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days and keeps the flavors intact, making it a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, this stir fry freezes well. Cool it completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags. When frozen, it maintains great texture and flavor for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a pan over medium heat to preserve the crispness of the vegetables and prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth helps loosen the sauce. Alternatively, a quick microwave reheat works too, just cover to keep the steam in and stir halfway through heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully, adding slightly richer flavor and staying juicy. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces like the breast and cook until fully browned.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to swap or add veggies like snap peas, mushrooms, baby corn, or zucchini. The great thing about this recipe is its flexibility to suit what you love or what’s on hand.
Is the dry sherry necessary?
Not at all. The dry sherry is optional and simply adds a subtle extra layer of flavor. If you don’t have it, don’t worry—the sauce will still be delicious without it.
How spicy is this stir fry?
This recipe as written is mild and family-friendly. You can easily add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to give it a kick if you prefer more heat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos as the soy sauce substitute and make sure any other ingredients like the sherry or broth are gluten-free versions. This keeps the dish safe for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic. It’s quick, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish to keep on your weekly rotation. Brighten your dinner table with the vibrant colors and irresistible aromas, and enjoy every delicious, satisfying bite!
Print
Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables and Sesame Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Chicken Stir Fry featuring tender chicken breast pieces and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce made with tamari, honey, and sesame oil. This quick and easy stir fry is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, delivering a balanced mix of protein and veggies with bold Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 red bell pepper (deseeded and chopped)
- 1 small carrot (thinly sliced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion (sliced)
Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, tamari soy sauce, dry sherry (if using), honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cornstarch or arrowroot powder until smooth. Set the sauce mixture aside while preparing the other ingredients.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the red bell pepper, chopped onion, sliced carrot, and broccoli florets along with any juices left from the chicken. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Combine and finish stir-fry: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds to let the flavors meld. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish the stir fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick, delicious chicken stir fry!
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and verify the sherry is gluten-free or omit it.
- Dry sherry is optional but adds depth of flavor; substitute with a splash of rice wine or water if preferred.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- Feel free to swap vegetables based on what you have on hand – snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn work well.
- Make sure to cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced chili when cooking the vegetables.
