Making a quick and satisfying dinner on busy weeknights can feel daunting, but Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken is a go-to recipe that’s easy to whip up. I vividly remember the first time I attempted a stir fry; the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the aroma of the ginger and garlic mingling in the air brought a warmth to my kitchen that felt almost magical. This dish is a wholesome combination of tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all enveloped in a flavorful teriyaki sauce that keeps me coming back for more.
What makes Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken truly special is its versatility and speed. You can have a delectable meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those times when you crave something quick yet satisfying.
Why you’ll love Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken
- Quick to prepare: It’s ready in about 20 minutes, making it a weeknight hero.
- Flavor-packed: The garlic, ginger, and teriyaki sauce create a delicious umami explosion.
- Customizable: You can easily switch out proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand.
- Healthy: This dish is loaded with veggies, making it a nutritious choice.
- Budget-friendly: Using simple ingredients, it’s easy on the wallet without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Ingredient notes & substitutions
Using chicken breast keeps this dish lean, but you can also swap it for chicken thighs or tofu for a vegetarian option. Feel free to mix up the veggies; snap peas, zucchini, or bell peppers work well too. Opt for low-sodium teriyaki sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
How to make Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken
Cooking this dish is as easy as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for a delicious, homemade stir fry:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken slices and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the teriyaki sauce, stirring to coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Pro Tip: To ensure all your ingredients cook evenly, cut the chicken and veggies into uniform pieces.
How to serve Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken
Serving this dish is part of the fun! Ladle the stir fry over a bowl of fluffy cooked rice, and for a pop of freshness, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or sliced green onions. You can also serve it alongside spring rolls or Asian-inspired salads for a complete meal.
How to store Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. This dish can also be frozen, but for optimal texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Tips & troubleshooting
- Dry chicken: If you overcook the chicken, it may become dry. Monitor the cooking time closely.
- Bland flavors: If your stir fry lacks flavor, try adding a splash more teriyaki sauce or a dash of soy sauce.
- Soggy vegetables: To keep your veggies crisp, avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure high heat when stir-frying.
- Sticky rice: If your rice is too sticky, try rinsing it before cooking to remove excess starch.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Change the protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for different flavors and textures.
- Vary the veggies: Replace the mixed vegetables with whatever you have—snow peas, mushrooms, or bok choy work beautifully.
- Add spice: For a kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha in the teriyaki sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Just add them directly to the stir fry—there’s no need to thaw. They’ll be ready once heated through.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular teriyaki sauce to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?
You can create a simple homemade version by combining soy sauce, honey, and a bit of rice vinegar—mix to taste for a quick alternative.
With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation, Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking!
Stir Fry Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken slices and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the teriyaki sauce, stirring to coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.