What’s the perfect solution for a busy night in – a quick homemade dinner that’s both healthy and delicious. This easy teriyaki chicken stir fry recipe is made with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, all ready in just 15 minutes. Save this idea for your next weeknight dinner inspiration.

chicken stir fry in a bowl with sauce and vegetables on the side, along with text that reads quick & healthy dinner 15 minute teriyaki chicken stir – fry

Introduction

Imagine a dinner that’s not only quick to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients, using everyday ingredients that you likely have in your pantry. This 15-minute teriyaki chicken stir-fry is the epitome of a healthy and delicious meal that can be prepared in no time. With its beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, along with the crunch of fresh vegetables, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and sauces, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of teriyaki sauce, chicken, and a variety of vegetables creates a harmonious balance of flavors that are both familiar and exciting. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making it accessible to everyone.
Ease of preparation: This recipe is designed to be quick and straightforward, with steps that are easy to follow and require minimal cooking time. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you need a meal fast.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this teriyaki chicken stir-fry presents beautifully, with the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the savory chicken, all coated in a rich teriyaki sauce. It’s sure to impress your family and friends without requiring hours of preparation.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, teriyaki sauce, and some basic pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and ginger. For the teriyaki sauce, you can either use store-bought or make your own using soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and cornstarch. Feel free to substitute the vegetables with your favorites or what’s in season, and consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, slice the vegetables, and mince the garlic and ginger. If using homemade teriyaki sauce, whisk all the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 2: Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary, then add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced vegetables and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir to coat the vegetables evenly.
Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables and sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat the chicken through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Handy Tips

For a crisper texture, make sure to not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken and vegetables. Cook in batches if necessary.
Adjust the amount of teriyaki sauce to your taste, and consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use any combination of vegetables you like, but keep in mind that harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli will take longer to cook than softer ones like bell peppers and mushrooms.

Heat Control

For this recipe, it’s crucial to maintain a medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the chicken and to cook the vegetables quickly without steaming them. However, be careful not to burn the garlic and ginger, as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt. Adjust the heat as needed, and don’t hesitate to remove the skillet from the heat for a moment if things start to cook too quickly.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture is key to a satisfying stir-fry. For a good crunch, ensure that your vegetables are not overcooked. They should retain a bit of crispness. Adding nuts or seeds towards the end of cooking can also provide a pleasant textural contrast. If you prefer your vegetables softer, simply cook them for a few minutes longer.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. This will make the cooking process much smoother and less stressful.
Use a wok or a large skillet with a non-stick surface to prevent food from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Don’t over-stir the food. Allow each ingredient a moment to cook and develop its flavor before stirring. This will result in a more complex and satisfying dish.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the microwave until warmed through.
Consider freezing the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture without the sauce for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat with fresh teriyaki sauce when ready.
For the best results, use glass or stainless steel containers for storing and reheating, as they retain heat well and are non-reactive.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a potluck or as a meal for a friend, you can package it in a decorative bowl or container, garnished with fresh herbs and a side of sauce for added flavor. Another idea is to portion the stir-fry into individual containers, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go. Don’t forget to include a packet of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cumin for a smoky flavor or some curry powder for an Indian-inspired twist.
Creative toppings: In addition to sesame seeds and green onions, consider topping your stir-fry with diced mango, sliced almonds, or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
Ingredient swaps: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option, or use different types of protein like shrimp or beef for variety.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your vegetables are too soft, try cooking them for less time. If the chicken is dry, make sure it’s not overcooked and consider marinating it beforehand for extra moisture.
Ingredient replacements: Don’t have teriyaki sauce? Try making your own or substituting with a combination of soy sauce and honey.
Over/undercooking signs: Chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Vegetables should be tender but still crisp. Adjust cooking times based on your preference for texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat with fresh sauce when ready.
Is it gluten-free? This recipe can be gluten-free if you use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce. Always check the ingredients of the sauce or make your own to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and cook in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

This 15-minute teriyaki chicken stir-fry is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. With its versatile ingredients, easy instructions, and numerous options for customization, it’s a recipe that you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special with everyday ingredients.

Quick Teriyaki Chicken Fry