This Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a colorful and tasty dish! With juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and mushrooms, it’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights.
I love how everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are great for this dish due to their mild flavor and crunch. If zucchinis are not available, you can substitute them with bell peppers or snap peas for a different texture!
Mushrooms: I like using cremini mushrooms for their earthy taste, but white mushrooms are a good choice too. If you need a punch of flavor, shiitake mushrooms could be an exciting option!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well for lean protein. Feel free to swap it out for chicken thighs for richer flavor, or use tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce can be a healthier alternative. If you’re gluten-free, try tamari or coconut aminos. They’ll provide a similar taste without the gluten!
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the dish, but you can skip it or use a vegetarian stir-fry sauce as an alternative if needed.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken evenly is key for a great stir fry! Start by slicing it thinly. This helps it cook quickly and evenly. Here are some tips:
- Heat the oil until it shimmers before adding chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and has a nice golden color, about 5-6 minutes.
This method ensures juicy and flavorful chicken that complements the veggies perfectly!
Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or water
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious stir fry takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at a meal ready in about 30-35 minutes! Quick and easy for a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips to the hot oil, sprinkling them lightly with salt and pepper. SautĂ© the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and has a nice golden color. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they are fragrant, bringing out their delicious flavors!
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for approximately 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their moisture. This enhances their savory taste!
4. Add Zucchini:
Next, incorporate the zucchini slices into the pan. Stir-fry them for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still have a nice crunch. We want the vibrant green color and the health benefits to shine!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Now, return the cooked chicken back to the pan. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), rice vinegar, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything nicely. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken the sauce a bit.
6. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Once you’re happy with the flavor, remove the pan from the heat.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Spoon the stir fry onto plates and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. This stir fry is fantastic served hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your wholesome and vibrant meal!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they are tender but still crisp.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce (if using) is gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors without worrying about gluten!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can chop the vegetables and slice the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, it will come together in no time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of soy sauce or water if needed to bring back moisture.
