20-Minute Chicken Stir-Fry(Quick Dinner Idea)
If you’ve ever found yourself staring into your fridge at 6:00 PM wondering what to make that’s fast, healthy, and still mouthwatering, then this 20-Minute Chicken Stir-Fry is your new go-to. As a professional chef, I’ve developed this recipe to bring together vibrant vegetables, tender chicken, and bold Asian flavors—all in under half an hour. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is non-negotiable.
📝 Ingredients:
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts (thinly sliced into strips)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (optional for spice lovers)
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (thinly sliced – red, yellow, green)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with soy sauce, garlic paste, and ginger paste. Let it marinate for 5 minutes while you prep your vegetables. This step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 6–7 minutes or until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Toss in your sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. You want to preserve their vibrant color and crunch.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Pour in the oyster sauce and optional chili garlic sauce. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors marry beautifully.
Step 5: Final Touch
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
🍴 Chef’s Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve with jasmine rice, egg fried rice, or garlic noodles.
- Want to make it veg-friendly? Swap chicken for tofu or paneer.
⏱️ Why This Recipe Works:
- Fast: Dinner on the table in under 20 minutes.
- Flexible: Swap in whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Flavorful: Balanced sweet, salty, and spicy elements.