This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes. Tender chicken and crisp zucchini are tossed in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey, making for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stir fry is the perfect balance of savory and sweet, with the rich umami flavors from soy sauce and oyster sauce, the hint of sweetness from honey, and the kick of heat from optional red pepper flakes. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the zucchini adds a light, fresh crunch to the dish. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that’s ready in no time—ideal for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken slices and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add garlic and zucchini to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the zucchini is tender.
- Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more color and flavor.
- Spicy Version: If you like extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the stir fry.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb meal.
- Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option, and use a vegan oyster sauce alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This stir fry can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like beef, shrimp, or turkey. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you’re using.
2. Can I use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce?
Yes, coconut aminos is a great substitute for soy sauce if you’re looking for a gluten-free or soy-free option.
3. Can I skip the oyster sauce?
Yes, you can skip the oyster sauce and substitute it with extra soy sauce or tamari for a vegan version of the dish.
4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center. You can also cut into the chicken to check.
5. Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
6. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini works best for stir-frying, but if you’re using frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water before adding it to the pan.
7. Can I add more sauce to the stir fry?
If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to double the amount of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
8. Can I add some sweetness to the dish?
If you like your stir fry sweeter, increase the honey or add a small amount of maple syrup or brown sugar to taste.
9. How do I know when the zucchini is cooked?
The zucchini should be tender and slightly crisp. Avoid overcooking it to maintain its texture and flavor.
10. Can I use a different type of pasta for serving?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or rice noodles, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender chicken, crisp zucchini, and savory sauce come together to create a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor without being heavy. Whether you serve it over rice or noodles, this stir fry will quickly become a go-to for quick, healthy dinners that everyone will love!
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Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry
This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a quick and healthy dinner option, combining tender chicken, crisp zucchini, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal. With simple ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey, this dish is packed with flavor and easy to customize to suit your preferences.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
- Add Vegetables: Add the minced garlic and sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add More Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added texture and color.
- Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb meal.
- Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use a vegan oyster sauce for a plant-based option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
