This easy zucchini mushroom chicken stir fry is colorful and full of tasty flavors! With tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and rich mushrooms, it’s a dish that really hits the spot.
I love how quick this meal comes together—perfect for busy nights when you want something healthy and yummy. Plus, you can enjoy it over rice or noodles just for some extra fun! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds crunch and color to the dish. If you can’t find zucchini, try using summer squash or even bell peppers for a similar effect.
Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms work perfectly here, but you can substitute with shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a heartier flavor. Just slice them up like the others.
Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this stir fry, you can also use thighs for more tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try swapping in tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Sauces: Low-sodium soy sauce keeps it healthier. If you’re gluten-free, look for tamari or coconut aminos. Oyster sauce adds depth, but feel free to skip it or replace it with hoisin sauce.
How Do I Ensure My Stir Fry is Perfectly Cooked?
A great stir fry depends on cooking the ingredients quickly at high heat. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Prep everything ahead of time! Cut the chicken, veggies, and measure your sauces to keep the cooking process smooth.
- Use a large skillet or wok to allow even cooking. This helps avoid overcrowding and ensures everything gets that nice sear.
- Cook in batches if necessary. It’s better to cook the chicken in smaller portions to get that lovely browning.
- Keep the heat high and stir frequently to avoid burning. The key to a great stir fry is quick cooking!
Remember to adjust the cooking time for each ingredient. Start with the chicken, followed by mushrooms, and finish with zucchini for the best results. Happy cooking!
Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or mirin
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes for a quick, healthy meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Gather and Prepare Ingredients:
Start by slicing the chicken into thin strips, the zucchinis into half-moons, and the mushrooms into slices. Having everything prepped ahead of time makes cooking a breeze!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Give it a good stir to mix all the ingredients and set this flavorful sauce aside.
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season it lightly with salt and pepper. Stir fry for about 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and put it to the side.
4. Cook the Garlic, Ginger, and Mushrooms:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Then toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften and start to release their moisture.
5. Add Zucchini and Combine:
Now, it’s time for the zucchini! Add it to the pan and stir fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Afterward, return the cooked chicken to the pan.
6. Finish with Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and veggies in the pan. Toss everything together to coat it well, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Taste it and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. Serve this vibrant stir fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry!
FAQs for Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat it dry before slicing to ensure it cooks evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
No problem! Simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, cut into cubes or strips. You can sauté them just like the chicken until golden brown. Also, make sure to use a vegetarian oyster sauce or skip it entirely to keep it meat-free.
What Can I Serve with This Stir Fry?
This stir fry goes great over steamed rice, but you can also use quinoa, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of stir-fried greens or a fresh salad.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the dish.
