Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry

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Colorful, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender slices of chicken breast are sautéed with crisp zucchini, tossed in a savory garlic-soy glaze, and finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chili for a touch of heat. It’s light, protein-packed, and bursting with umami goodness.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy low-carb dinner idea, a quick meal prep option, or simply a way to use up that extra zucchini in your fridge, this dish ticks all the boxes. Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it as is—it’s flexible, easy, and full of fresh, bold flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry

This recipe is all about balance and simplicity. You get juicy chicken with caramelized edges, tender-yet-crisp zucchini, and a rich stir-fry sauce that’s just the right blend of salty, sweet, and spicy. It’s gluten-free adaptable, meal-prep friendly, and perfect for busy families or solo cooks alike.

You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Just a few pantry staples and fresh veggies will transform your dinner into something exciting, wholesome, and satisfying.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully in this recipe. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook quickly, while thighs offer a richer flavor and more tenderness. Whichever you choose, slice them thinly and against the grain for the best texture.

If you’re in a rush, pre-cut chicken strips or even rotisserie chicken (added at the end) can make this stir fry even quicker without sacrificing too much flavor.

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Ingredients for the Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry

Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish flavorful, colorful, and satisfying:

• Chicken breast or thighs – The star protein, sliced thin for quick and even cooking.
• Zucchini – Adds moisture, color, and a light crunch that balances the dish.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic infuses the stir fry with deep aromatic flavor.
• Soy sauce – The base of the savory sauce, adding saltiness and umami.
• Sesame oil – A few drops give a nutty depth and classic stir-fry aroma.
• Honey or brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the salt and spice.
• Chili flakes or sliced red chili – For a subtle (or bold!) kick of heat.
• Green onions – Bright, fresh flavor and perfect garnish.
• Sesame seeds – Optional, but they add texture and visual appeal.

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How To Make the Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice the chicken into thin strips, cut the zucchini into half-moons, mince the garlic, and thinly slice the green onions. Have all your ingredients ready before cooking to make the stir-fry process fast and easy.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, searing until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed and sauté the zucchini for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Add in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or brown sugar), and chili flakes. Pour the sauce over the zucchini and stir well.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until everything is hot and glazed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with green onions, sesame seeds, and extra chili if desired. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or on its own.

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How to Serve and Store This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry

This recipe serves about 4 people as a main dish, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Serve it hot straight from the pan over a bowl of steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or rice noodles.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the zucchini from getting mushy.

You can also freeze this stir fry, but keep in mind that the texture of the zucchini may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze without the garnishes and add fresh ones when serving.

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What to Serve With Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry?

Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice

Perfect for soaking up that savory, slightly sweet sauce.

Rice Noodles or Lo Mein

For a noodle-based twist that turns this into a heartier meal.

Cauliflower Rice

A great low-carb option that keeps the dish light.

Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls

Serve on the side for a crunchy appetizer or add-on.

Stir-Fried Greens

Think bok choy, snow peas, or Chinese broccoli for added nutrition.

Miso Soup or Hot & Sour Soup

A warm, comforting pairing for cooler nights.

Pickled Vegetables

Balance the richness of the stir fry with something tangy and bright.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, this recipe is very flexible. Bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots make excellent additions. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pan so everything sautés properly.

How do I keep the zucchini from getting soggy?

Avoid overcooking it. Zucchini only needs a few minutes to soften. Cook it over high heat and don’t add salt until the end to keep it crisp-tender.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Definitely! Cook the stir fry, let it cool, and portion into containers. It reheats well for up to 4 days and works great for quick lunches or dinners.

What kind of oil should I use for stir-frying?

Use a high smoke point oil like avocado oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil. Sesame oil is better used in the sauce or as a finishing drizzle, not for high heat cooking.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it spicier? Try a different veggie combo?
I love seeing how you put your own spin on it. Questions are always welcome—let’s make dinner easier together.

Check out more of my daily recipes here on Pinterest: Life With Livia on Pinterest

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Conclusion

This Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry is a flavorful, fast, and healthy dinner idea you’ll want to make on repeat. It brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and bold Asian-inspired flavors in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking solo, this dish delivers on taste, nutrition, and ease. Don’t forget to pin it and share how it turned out for you!

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