This Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a colorful meal that’s quick to whip up! Juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and mushrooms come together in a tasty mix everyone will love.
I appreciate how this dish is perfect for busy nights. Just toss everything in a pan, and you’ve got a delicious dinner ready in no time! Plus, it’s healthy—win-win! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis give a nice crunch and mild flavor. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash or even bell peppers can work as great substitutes!
Mushrooms: I prefer using cremini for a richer taste, but white button mushrooms are just fine. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, consider using more zucchini or even snap peas for a different texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this stir fry, but feel free to use chicken thighs for more flavor. Tofu or tempeh are good alternatives if you’re going for a vegetarian option.
Garlic and Ginger: These add fantastic depth to the dish. If you’re short on fresh, you can swap in garlic powder or ginger paste, although the fresh versions pack more punch!
How Can You Make Sure Your Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking the chicken just right is crucial for a tender stir fry. Here’s how:
- Cut the chicken into thin strips to help it cook quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it can steam the chicken instead of frying it. If needed, cook in batches.
- Cook on medium-high heat and avoid overcooking, which usually takes just 4-5 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
This way, your chicken will be juicy and full of flavor! Also, letting it rest a few minutes after cooking will help it retain moisture.
Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water or chicken broth (to loosen sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (scallions), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy stir fry will take about 10-15 minutes of preparation time and 10 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by slicing the zucchinis into half-moons, and the mushrooms, onion, and chicken into thin strips. Having everything ready will make cooking quick and easy!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, seasoning them lightly with black pepper. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Throw in the minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and sliced onion. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until you can smell the garlic and the onions are beginning to soften.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini to the pan. Stir-fry these together for about 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still have a little crunch.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using), followed by the water or chicken broth, black pepper, and sugar or honey. Toss everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s all cooked through, remove the stir fry from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a lovely finish. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Enjoy your vibrant and wholesome Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Stir Fry?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed first. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator or by using the microwave’s defrost setting. Pat it dry before cooking to help achieve a good sear.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this stir fry vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. You may also want to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for more texture and flavor.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This stir fry is super versatile! You can add bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or broccoli to the mix for additional color and nutrition. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary for different vegetables, so add them according to their cooking needs.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
