This Healthy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish! It brings together tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and flavorful mushrooms in a colorful mix.
What I love most is how easy it is to whip up! Just a bit of chopping and stir-frying, and dinner is done. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean protein. You can substitute with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a lovely crunch. You can replace it with yellow squash or bell peppers for additional flavor and color!
Mushrooms: I like using cremini for their rich flavor. If you can’t find them, white button mushrooms or shiitake are great alternatives.
Garlic & Ginger: These add amazing depth to the dish. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can work too! Just use less—about half a teaspoon.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce keeps the dish healthy. Tamari is a gluten-free option. Coconut aminos can be a nice substitute if you’re after a soy-free option.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but I’ve found some simple tips! First, cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure they all cook at the same time. This way, you’ll avoid undercooked or overcooked bits.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice sear!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space to brown. Cooking in batches is better if you have a lot.
- Chicken should be cooked until it’s no longer pink inside and juices run clear. A food thermometer will help—165°F (75°C) is the safe zone.
Healthy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for more flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized chunks. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and black pepper. This step helps the chicken get that great sear and flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, until they are browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn them!
4. Add the Mushrooms:
Now, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their moisture. This is where the dish starts to smell amazing!
5. Stir in the Zucchini:
Next, add the sliced zucchini and continue to stir-fry for 3-4 minutes. You want the zucchini to be tender but still a bit crisp—this will keep the dish fresh!
6. Combine Chicken with Vegetables:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the low sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir everything together to coat all the ingredients in that scrumptious sauce.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously. This will help the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
8. Finish with Green Onions:
Add the sliced green onions and toss everything together for an even distribution of flavor. This adds a lovely crunch and freshness!
9. Adjust and Serve:
Take a moment to taste the stir fry and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Once you’re satisfied, remove it from heat.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle sesame seeds over your stir fry for a nice finish! Serve this delightful dish over steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables’ texture—add firmer veggies earlier to ensure everything cooks evenly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure any other sauces you use are gluten-free as well. It’s delicious either way!
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve with This Stir Fry?
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it with a light salad or some whole-grain noodles to make it a more hearty meal!
