Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is a star here. You can also use yellow squash if you can’t find zucchini. Both add a lovely crunch to the stir fry.

Mushrooms: I like button mushrooms or cremini for their mild flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try shiitake or any other favorite mushrooms you have on hand!

Chicken: Thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. If you’re looking for a shortcut, shredded rotisserie chicken can also be a great substitute.

Oyster Sauce: While it’s optional, it adds great depth. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider mushroom sauce or skip it altogether and just use extra soy sauce.

Vegetable Oil: You can use sesame oil for a toasty flavor. If you’re avoiding oil altogether, vegetable or chicken broth works to cook the ingredients.

How Do You Get the Chicken Just Right?

Cooking the chicken properly ensures it’s juicy and not dry. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat oil in the pan on medium-high. High heat is key!
• Add the chicken slices in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly.
• Don’t rush; let them cook for about 5-6 minutes until they’re white throughout. Stir only a couple of times.
• Remove them as soon as they are no longer pink, and let them rest before adding back with the veggies.

These little steps will help you achieve that perfect chicken every time!

Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

Ingredients:

For the Stir Fry:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This stir fry recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner ready in about 25 minutes! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken breast. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until it’s no longer pink in the center. Remember to stir occasionally to cook evenly. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant—just don’t let it burn!

3. Cook the Mushrooms and Zucchini:

Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Let them cook for about 4 minutes until they start to soften. Then, toss in the sliced zucchini and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes. You want them tender but still crispy for that nice texture!

4. Combine and Season:

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if you’re using it). Sprinkle in the black pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together so the chicken and veggies are coated with the sauces.

5. Thicken the Sauce:

Finally, add the cornstarch mixed with water to the pan. Give it a good stir and allow it to cook for another minute. This will thicken the sauce a bit and coat the stir fry nicely.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Serve the stir fry hot over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious and vibrant meal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Other Proteins in This Stir Fry?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly. For shrimp, cook until they’re pink and opaque, while beef should be sliced thin and cooked until brown.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftover stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Yes, feel free to customize this stir fry! Bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or carrots all work wonderfully. Just be mindful of the cooking time as firmer vegetables may need to be sautéed a bit longer.

What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?

If you’re out of soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these can differ in saltiness!