This Honey Garlic Chicken Zucchini Stir-Fry is a fast, colorful, and flavorful meal that comes together in under 25 minutes. It features tender chicken pieces, crisp zucchini, and red bell pepper all coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is satisfying, healthy, and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect balance of taste, texture, and simplicity. The honey garlic sauce offers a delightful sweet and tangy flavor that clings to juicy chicken and crisp-tender vegetables. It’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Best of all, it uses simple pantry staples and requires only one pan, making cleanup minimal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil or vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish

directions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced onion, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
6. Add the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together until evenly coated.
7. Pour in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
10. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or your choice of side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
• Low-carb version: Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce cups.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Different vegetables: Try broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms in place of zucchini or peppers.
• Ginger-lime twist: Add lime juice and zest for a citrusy version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the sauce becomes too thick when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both work well. Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts offer a leaner option.

What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar in equal amounts if rice vinegar isn’t available.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I double the sauce for extra flavor?

Yes, double all sauce ingredients if you prefer a saucier stir-fry.

How do I keep the vegetables from getting soggy?

Cook them quickly over high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

What sides go well with this stir-fry?

Steamed jasmine rice, noodles, quinoa, or even a light cucumber salad pair well with this dish.

Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat thoroughly.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Sesame oil adds great flavor, but vegetable oil or avocado oil are also excellent for high-heat cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Zucchini Stir-Fry is a go-to recipe for quick, healthy, and flavorful dinners. With minimal prep, bold taste, and a customizable ingredient list, it’s the kind of meal that easily becomes part of your regular rotation. Whether served with rice, noodles, or on its own, this dish satisfies every time.

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