Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Quick weeknight dinners are a lifesaver, aren’t they? For my family, this Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry has become a true weeknight champion. Honestly, from prep to plate, it’s on the table in under 30 minutes, which is a huge win when everyone is hungry and time is short. The vibrant colors from the vegetables, the savory-sweet teriyaki glaze on the tender chicken, and the satisfying crunch – it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that even my pickiest eaters devour. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. We’ve tried it with different veggies, added a touch of spice, and even swapped the chicken for shrimp – each time it’s a hit. If you’re searching for a fast, flavorful, and family-friendly meal that’s also surprisingly healthy, look no further. This Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is about to become your new go-to recipe.

Ingredients for Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

To create this delicious and speedy stir-fry, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Chicken Breast (1.5 lbs): The star protein of our dish. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cutting and quick cooking. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but breast is leaner and faster.
• Broccoli Florets (1 large head): Adds a beautiful green color and a boost of fiber and nutrients. Choose fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and flavor. You can also substitute with frozen florets, just thaw them slightly before stir-frying.
• Bell Peppers (2, assorted colors): Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers not only add vibrant colors but also a sweet, crisp bite. They are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants. Feel free to use any color combination you prefer.
• Carrots (2 medium): Sliced carrots contribute sweetness and a satisfying crunch. They are also a great source of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A in the body. Peel and slice them thinly for even cooking in the stir-fry.
• Onion (1 medium): Yellow or white onion provides a foundational savory flavor to the stir-fry. It caramelizes beautifully and adds depth to the overall taste.
• Garlic (3-4 cloves): Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic flavor that enhances any stir-fry. Mince it finely to release its flavors quickly.
• Ginger (1 inch piece): Fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty kick and a distinct Asian flavor profile. Peel and mince it finely or grate it for best results.
• Soy Sauce (1/4 cup): Forms the base of our teriyaki-style sauce, adding umami and saltiness. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content of the dish.
• Brown Sugar (1/4 cup): Provides sweetness and helps to create a glossy, caramelized glaze in the teriyaki sauce. Light or dark brown sugar will work.
• Rice Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and savory flavors of the sauce. It also tenderizes the chicken slightly.
• Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon): Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and authentic Asian flavor to the stir-fry. A little goes a long way, so just a tablespoon is enough.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Used as a thickening agent to create a luscious, glossy teriyaki sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables beautifully.
• Water (2 tablespoons): Helps to dissolve the cornstarch and create the sauce consistency.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons): For stir-frying. Vegetable oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for stir-frying at high heat. Canola oil or peanut oil are also good options.
• Sesame Seeds (for garnish, optional): Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and visual appeal as a garnish.
• Cooked Rice or Noodles (for serving): Serve your stir-fry over your choice of cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine) or noodles (egg noodles, ramen, or udon).

Instructions for Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create your delicious Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This ensures quick and even cooking in the stir-fry. Place the cubed chicken in a medium bowl.
2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. This homemade teriyaki sauce is the key to the dish’s flavor.
3. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the cubed chicken in the bowl. Toss to coat the chicken pieces evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator if you have more time. Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken. Reserve the remaining teriyaki sauce for later.
4. Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Wash and chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Slice the bell peppers into strips and thinly slice the carrots. Slice the onion into thin wedges or half-moons. Having all your vegetables prepped and ready to go will make the stir-frying process quick and efficient.
5. Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth and there are no lumps. This cornstarch slurry will thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish.
6. Heat the Wok or Skillet: Heat a large wok or a large skillet over medium-high to high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up until it’s shimmering hot. This high heat is crucial for stir-frying to ensure the vegetables and chicken cook quickly and develop a slightly crispy texture.
7. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot wok or skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Stir-fry the chicken for 3-5 minutes, or until it is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the cooked chicken from the wok and set aside.
8. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the sliced onions and carrots to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften slightly. Then, add the broccoli florets and bell pepper strips. Continue to stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender – cooked through but still retaining a slight crunch. Don’t overcook the vegetables, as you want them to have some texture.
9. Combine and Glaze: Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the stir-fried vegetables. Pour the remaining teriyaki sauce (the portion you reserved earlier) over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together to combine.
10. Thicken the Sauce: Pour the cornstarch slurry into the wok. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, coating the chicken and vegetables evenly. The cornstarch will quickly thicken the sauce as it heats up.
11. Simmer and Finish: Let the stir-fry simmer for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to reduce slightly if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a pinch of salt or a dash of soy sauce to taste.
12. Serve Immediately: Remove the Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry from the heat and serve it immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired, for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your quick, delicious, and healthy meal!

Nutrition Facts for Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

This Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a general overview of the nutrition facts per serving (estimated, based on 4 servings and typical ingredient amounts):

• Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups of stir-fry (excluding rice or noodles). This is a generous and satisfying portion size for a main meal.
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories per serving. This can vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients used, portion sizes, and the type of rice or noodles served with it. This calorie range makes it a moderately calorie-dense meal, suitable for a balanced diet.
• Protein: Approximately 40-50 grams of protein per serving. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, making this dish excellent for muscle building and satiety. Protein helps you feel fuller for longer and is essential for various bodily functions.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams of carbohydrates per serving. This comes primarily from the vegetables, brown sugar in the sauce, and any rice or noodles served with it. The carbohydrates provide energy for the body.
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams of fat per serving. This includes healthy fats from sesame oil and vegetable oil, as well as some fat from the chicken. Fat is also important for energy and nutrient absorption.

Note: These are estimated values and can vary. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. This stir-fry is generally a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially if you load it up with a variety of colorful vegetables.

Preparation Time for Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

One of the best things about this Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is how fast it comes together. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking time:

• Prep Time: Approximately 20 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, onion), mincing garlic and ginger, cubing the chicken, and mixing the teriyaki sauce and cornstarch slurry. Efficient knife skills will help you speed up the prep time.
• Cook Time: Approximately 15 minutes. This includes stir-frying the chicken, stir-frying the vegetables, combining everything, and thickening the sauce. Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that preserves the texture and nutrients of the ingredients.
• Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes. From start to finish, you can have this flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in just over half an hour. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy and delicious dinner in a hurry.

This quick preparation time makes it a fantastic option for weeknight meals, last-minute dinner plans, or anyone who wants a flavorful and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The efficiency of stir-frying ensures that you get a delicious and nutritious meal in a short amount of time.

How to Serve Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

This versatile stir-fry can be served in a variety of delicious ways. Here are some popular and tasty serving suggestions:

• Over Rice:
  • White Rice: Classic and simple, white rice provides a neutral base that soaks up the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier and nuttier option, serve over brown rice. Brown rice adds fiber and a slightly chewier texture.
  • Jasmine Rice: Fragrant jasmine rice complements the Asian flavors of the stir-fry with its delicate aroma and slightly sticky texture.
  • Quinoa: For a protein-packed and gluten-free alternative, quinoa is an excellent choice. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and a good source of nutrients.
• With Noodles:
  • Egg Noodles: Wide or thin egg noodles are a classic pairing with stir-fries. They are soft, absorbent, and delicious with teriyaki sauce.
  • Ramen Noodles: Quick-cooking ramen noodles are a convenient and budget-friendly option. They are springy and soak up the sauce well.
  • Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy udon noodles provide a substantial and satisfying base for the stir-fry.
  • Lo Mein Noodles: Pre-cooked lo mein noodles can be quickly tossed with the stir-fry for a restaurant-style experience.
• As a Lighter Meal:
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb and grain-free option, serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice. It’s a healthy and light alternative.
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Another low-carb and vegetable-rich option. Zucchini noodles add a fresh and slightly crunchy element.
• Add Side Dishes:
  • Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: Serve with crispy spring rolls or egg rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
  • Miso Soup: A light and flavorful miso soup makes a great appetizer before the stir-fry.
  • Edamame: Steamed edamame pods are a healthy and fun side dish to enjoy while waiting for the stir-fry.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness and balance to the meal.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different bases and side dishes to find your favorite combination!

Additional Tips for Perfect Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

To elevate your Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry to the next level, consider these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Marinate for Deeper Flavor: While 15-30 minutes of marinating is good, if you have more time, marinating the chicken for up to a few hours in the refrigerator will result in even more flavorful and tender chicken. The longer it marinates, the more the teriyaki flavors will penetrate the meat.
2. Prep Everything in Advance: Stir-frying is a fast cooking method, so having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking is crucial. Chop your vegetables, mince your garlic and ginger, and mix your sauce beforehand. This will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
3. High Heat is Key: Stir-frying requires high heat to cook the ingredients quickly and create that desirable slightly charred and crispy texture. Make sure your wok or skillet is properly heated before adding the oil and ingredients. Don’t be afraid to turn up the heat!
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and cause the chicken and vegetables to steam instead of stir-fry. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything cooks properly and gets nicely browned.
5. Cut Vegetables Evenly: Cut your vegetables into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly in the stir-fry. This will prevent some vegetables from being overcooked while others are still raw.
6. Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Freshly minced garlic and ginger are essential for the best flavor in stir-fries. They provide a much brighter and more aromatic flavor compared to powdered versions.
7. Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness: Taste your teriyaki sauce and adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more brown sugar. If you want it saltier, add a touch more soy sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
8. Garnish for Flavor and Presentation: Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and visual appeal. Chopped green onions or cilantro can also add freshness and a pop of color to your finished dish. A squeeze of lime juice at the end can brighten up the flavors.

By following these tips, you can ensure your Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful and satisfying every time you make it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Here are some common questions people ask about making Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry, along with helpful answers:

Q1: Can I use frozen vegetables in this stir-fry?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen vegetables for convenience. Frozen broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots work well. Thaw them slightly before stir-frying to remove excess water and ensure they cook properly. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as frozen vegetables can sometimes release more moisture.

Q2: Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp, beef (thinly sliced steak), pork (cubed or sliced), or even tofu (firm or extra-firm, pressed and cubed). Adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the protein you choose. Shrimp cooks very quickly, while beef and pork might need a bit longer than chicken. Tofu should be browned first for best texture.

Q3: Can I make this stir-fry vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, to make it vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the chicken and use tofu or tempeh as your protein source. Alternatively, you can make it entirely vegetable-based by adding more vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, bok choy, or zucchini. Ensure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly (some may contain honey).

Q4: How can I make this stir-fry spicier?
A: To add some heat, you can incorporate a few different options. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce, include a minced chili pepper (like jalapeño or Serrano) when stir-frying the vegetables, or drizzle a bit of sriracha or chili garlic sauce over the finished dish.

Q5: Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This can save you time during weeknight cooking. Just give it a whisk before using.

Q6: How do I store leftover stir-fry?
A: Store leftover Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. The texture of the vegetables may soften slightly upon reheating, but it will still be delicious.

Q7: Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?
A: Definitely! Feel free to customize this stir-fry with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Good additions include snap peas, snow peas, mushrooms, baby corn, water chestnuts, bok choy, and zucchini. Just adjust cooking times as needed for different vegetables.

Q8: My sauce isn’t thickening, what did I do wrong?
A: Make sure you are using cornstarch slurry and that you whisked it well before adding it to the wok. Also, ensure the sauce is hot when you add the slurry. If it still doesn’t thicken, you can mix a little more cornstarch with water (1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water) and add it to the sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens. Sometimes, not enough cornstarch is used, or the heat isn’t high enough for proper thickening.

We hope these FAQs are helpful! Enjoy making and customizing your own delicious Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry!

Print