Ground Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables
Highlighted under: Quick Recipe Vault
I love making this Ground Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables when I need a quick and healthy meal. The combination of fresh veggies and tender chicken packs in so much flavor, and we can have it on the table in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. The vibrant colors and variety of textures make it not only delicious but a feast for the eyes as well. It's a go-to dish that satisfies our cravings without weighing us down.
When I first tried this Ground Chicken Stir Fry, I was amazed at how quickly dinner can come together. With just a handful of ingredients and a hot skillet, I managed to whip up something that felt both nutritious and satisfying. The key is to cook the chicken until it’s perfectly browned before adding the vegetables, which helps to deepen the flavor and create that irresistible stir-fry taste.
One tip I learned along the way is to use high heat, which ensures that the veggies stay crisp while absorbing all those lovely seasonings. I like to finish it off with a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for that extra punch, and I guarantee you’ll want to make this easy dish a regular part of your dinner rotation!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
- Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutrient boost
- Customizable with your favorite sauces and spices
Choosing the Right Vegetables
When it comes to stir fry, the choice of vegetables plays a crucial role in both flavor and texture. I recommend using a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for their vibrant colors and satisfying crunch. However, feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces, as this ensures even cooking and consistency in texture throughout the dish.
If you're short on time, pre-cut or frozen vegetable mixes work beautifully, allowing you to skip the chopping prep. When using frozen vegetables, simply adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through but still retain a bit of crispness. The goal is to have tender-crisp veggies that contrast the juicy, well-cooked ground chicken.
Mastering the Stir Fry Technique
Stir frying requires high heat and quick movements, so having everything prepped and ready to go is key. I recommend using a well-seasoned or non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier. When you add the garlic and ginger to the pan, be attentive; they can burn quickly. Stir for no more than 30 seconds until fragrant before adding the vegetables.
Another technique I use is to push the cooked chicken to one side of the skillet. This allows the flavors to meld without overcrowding the pan. If your skillet isn’t large enough, consider cooking in batches. Also, when adding your soy sauce, make sure you drizzle it evenly across the stir-fry to ensure every bite gets that delicious umami flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
This combination makes for a wholesome and flavorful meal.
Instructions
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables
Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Add another tablespoon of oil if necessary, then toss in the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Season and Serve
Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the stir fry, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes before removing from heat. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions.
Serve this stir fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute ground chicken with turkey or beef, and add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. Serve with rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This stir fry can be prepped ahead of time if you want to streamline your weeknight dinners. You can cook the ground chicken and vegetables separately, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it’s time to eat, simply reheat the ingredients in a skillet, adding your soy sauce and sesame oil for freshness.
If you're looking to store leftovers, place the stir fry in a container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, use the stovetop over medium heat to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables; microwaving may cause them to become limp. For longer-term storage, this dish can also be frozen for up to three months, but be aware that the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
Customizing the flavor of your stir fry can create an entirely new experience each time you make it. Consider adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce alongside the soy sauce for a touch of sweetness and richness. If you're a fan of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha can elevate the dish significantly.
For additional protein, feel free to mix in cooked shrimp or tofu. Just remember to add delicate ingredients like tofu towards the end of the cooking process to prevent breakage. You can also incorporate nuts like cashews or peanuts for extra crunch—just toss them in with the vegetables for a delightful contrast in texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this stir fry in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat when ready to serve.
→ What other vegetables can I use?
You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of the cooking time for different vegetables.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! The stir fry freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute.
Ground Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables
I love making this Ground Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables when I need a quick and healthy meal. The combination of fresh veggies and tender chicken packs in so much flavor, and we can have it on the table in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. The vibrant colors and variety of textures make it not only delicious but a feast for the eyes as well. It's a go-to dish that satisfies our cravings without weighing us down.
Created by: Lydia Barrett
Recipe Type: Quick Recipe Vault
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
Gather all your ingredients and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces, about 5-7 minutes.
Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Add another tablespoon of oil if necessary, then toss in the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the stir fry, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes before removing from heat. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute ground chicken with turkey or beef, and add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. Serve with rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g