Savory Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry Easy Recipe

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Craving a quick and tasty meal? My Savory Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry is just what you need! This dish combines juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a rich sesame sauce, all in one easy recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, you’ll learn essential cooking tips and ingredient choices that boost flavor. Let’s dive into this mouth-watering stir-fry that’ll become a favorite on your dinner table!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This stir-fry comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Combination: The blend of ginger, garlic, and sesame oil delivers a deliciously aromatic dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
  3. Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, making this recipe versatile and accommodating to your preferences.
  4. Healthy and Nutritious: This dish is packed with protein and colorful veggies, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips

– 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided

– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, finely grated

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 cup snap peas

– 2 green onions, sliced thinly

– 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

– Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

The main stars of this dish are the chicken and vibrant veggies. I choose boneless, skinless chicken because it cooks fast and stays tender. Fresh ginger adds a nice zing, while garlic gives depth. For veggies, I use bright bell peppers, crunchy snap peas, and broccoli. They not only taste great but also add color and nutrition.

Cooking Oils

Sesame oil shines in stir-frying. It has a rich, nutty flavor that makes each bite special. I use it to give my dish an authentic taste. Plus, it has a high smoke point, which means it won’t burn easily when heated.

If you want to try something different, you can use vegetable or canola oil. They have a neutral taste and work well in stir-frying too. Olive oil is another option, but it has a lower smoke point.

Garnishes

Green onions and sesame seeds finish this dish perfectly. They add a fresh crunch and a pop of flavor. I love how they make the dish look more appealing, too.

You can also use crushed peanuts or cilantro for variety. These can add a new twist to your stir-fry and make it even more fun to eat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

To get the best flavor, marinate the chicken well. Start with a bowl. Add sliced chicken, half of the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Mix until every piece is coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the chicken soak up the flavors.

Cooking the Chicken

Use a large skillet or wok for cooking. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Look for a golden color and no pink inside. This shows the chicken is done. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the other tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in the red bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for about 3-4 minutes. Stir often to keep the veggies crisp. They should be bright and tender but not soft.

Preparing the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the rest of the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch with water. Whisk until smooth. This helps thicken the sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Put the cooked chicken back in the skillet with the veggies. Pour the sauce over everything. Stir well to coat all the chicken and veggies evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This lets the sauce thicken and stick.

Final Serving Techniques

When ready to serve, sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds flavor and crunch. Serve the stir-fry over jasmine rice or quinoa for a full meal. Try using chopsticks for a fun touch!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To make your Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry extra tasty, try adding some chili flakes for heat. Mushrooms can bring a nice umami flavor, too. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten each bite. They add color and a fresh taste to your dish. Always use fresh ingredients when possible. Freshness makes a big difference in flavor.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve a great stir-fry, make sure your pan is hot. Use high heat and keep the food moving. This helps to cook everything quickly and evenly. Avoid crowding the pan, as it can steam your food instead of frying it. If you see water pooling, it’s a sign you need to stir-fry in batches.

Equipment Recommendations

For stir-frying, a wok is perfect. It has high sides to toss your food easily. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet works well too. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir. Non-stick pans are great for easy cleaning but avoid using metal utensils on them. Choose a pan that heats evenly for the best results.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for longer if possible, up to 1 hour, to deepen the flavors of the ginger and garlic.
  2. Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance the color and nutrition of your stir-fry.
  3. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked in a single layer for an even sear and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam the chicken instead of stir-frying it.
  4. Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed rice or quinoa, and consider adding a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast to the dish.

Variations

Proteins

You can swap chicken for other proteins. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based meal. Shrimp adds a nice touch too. If you prefer beef, thin slices work well. For cooking time, shrimp cooks faster, around 3-4 minutes. Tofu takes about 5-7 minutes. Beef needs about 6-8 minutes. Always check for doneness to ensure safety.

Vegetables

Adding seasonal veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. Try zucchini, asparagus, or carrots for variety. These options add bright colors and different textures. You can also use leafy greens like spinach or bok choy. They cook quickly and wilt down, adding more nutrition to your meal. Mix and match based on what you like!

Sauce Variations

You can personalize the sauce too. For a sweeter taste, try maple syrup instead of honey. If you want less sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce. Add spices like red pepper flakes for heat or five-spice powder for depth. These changes help create a sauce just right for your taste buds!

Storage Info

Leftovers

To keep your sesame ginger chicken stir-fry fresh, follow these steps:

– Let the stir-fry cool down to room temperature.

– Place it in an airtight container.

– Store it in the fridge for up to four days.

For best results, use glass or BPA-free plastic containers. They keep food fresh and make reheating easy.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your stir-fry without losing texture, try these methods:

– Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

– Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

– You can also use a microwave, but cover it with a damp paper towel. This keeps the chicken juicy.

Avoid reheating more than once to keep flavors intact.

Freezing Guidance

If you want to freeze the stir-fry, follow these steps:

– Cool the dish completely before freezing.

– Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can.

– Label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

For thawing, place the bag in the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave for quick thawing, but do so carefully to avoid cooking the chicken.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips for meal prepping sesame ginger chicken stir-fry:

Cook the chicken and vegetables: Stir-fry them as the recipe states.

Store separately: Keep the chicken, veggies, and sauce in separate containers.

Use airtight containers: This helps keep everything fresh.

Reheat properly: When ready to eat, heat them in a skillet. Add a splash of water to keep it moist.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you need a soy sauce substitute, consider these alternatives:

Tamari: This is a gluten-free option.

Coconut aminos: A sweeter, soy-free sauce.

Liquid aminos: A non-soy sauce with similar taste.

These options work well in the recipe without losing flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat to this stir-fry, try these suggestions:

Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch for a mild kick.

Sriracha: Mix in a teaspoon for a bold flavor.

Fresh chili peppers: Slice and toss them in while cooking.

Start with small amounts, then adjust to your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Here are tips for storing and reheating:

Cool completely: Let it cool before storing.

Use separate containers: Store chicken, veggies, and sauce separately.

Reheat on the stove: This keeps the texture nice.

Add a bit of water: This helps to keep it moist when reheating.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this recipe. Here are some benefits and taste differences:

Convenient: Frozen veggies are quick and easy to use.

Longer shelf life: They stay fresh longer than fresh vegetables.

Taste: Fresh veggies may be crisper, but frozen will work well.

Just remember to thaw and drain excess water before cooking.

In this post, we explored how to make sesame ginger chicken stir-fry. We covered key ingredients, cooking oils, garnishes, and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips on enhancing flavor and techniques to avoid common mistakes. With easy variations and storage advice, you can customize this dish to suit your taste. Whether you serve it fresh or as leftovers, this stir-fry is simple and delicious. Enjoy all the flavors and textures that this recipe brings to your tabl

- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips - 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided - 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, finely grated - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup snap peas - 2 green onions, sliced thinly - 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water - Toasted sesame seeds for garnish The main stars of this dish are the chicken and vibrant veggies. I choose boneless, skinless chicken because it cooks fast and stays tender. Fresh ginger adds a nice zing, while garlic gives depth. For veggies, I use bright bell peppers, crunchy snap peas, and broccoli. They not only taste great but also add color and nutrition. Sesame oil shines in stir-frying. It has a rich, nutty flavor that makes each bite special. I use it to give my dish an authentic taste. Plus, it has a high smoke point, which means it won’t burn easily when heated. If you want to try something different, you can use vegetable or canola oil. They have a neutral taste and work well in stir-frying too. Olive oil is another option, but it has a lower smoke point. Green onions and sesame seeds finish this dish perfectly. They add a fresh crunch and a pop of flavor. I love how they make the dish look more appealing, too. You can also use crushed peanuts or cilantro for variety. These can add a new twist to your stir-fry and make it even more fun to eat. {{ingredient_image_2}} To get the best flavor, marinate the chicken well. Start with a bowl. Add sliced chicken, half of the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Mix until every piece is coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the chicken soak up the flavors. Use a large skillet or wok for cooking. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Look for a golden color and no pink inside. This shows the chicken is done. Remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the other tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in the red bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for about 3-4 minutes. Stir often to keep the veggies crisp. They should be bright and tender but not soft. In a small bowl, mix the rest of the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch with water. Whisk until smooth. This helps thicken the sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch. Put the cooked chicken back in the skillet with the veggies. Pour the sauce over everything. Stir well to coat all the chicken and veggies evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This lets the sauce thicken and stick. When ready to serve, sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds flavor and crunch. Serve the stir-fry over jasmine rice or quinoa for a full meal. Try using chopsticks for a fun touch! To make your Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry extra tasty, try adding some chili flakes for heat. Mushrooms can bring a nice umami flavor, too. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten each bite. They add color and a fresh taste to your dish. Always use fresh ingredients when possible. Freshness makes a big difference in flavor. To achieve a great stir-fry, make sure your pan is hot. Use high heat and keep the food moving. This helps to cook everything quickly and evenly. Avoid crowding the pan, as it can steam your food instead of frying it. If you see water pooling, it’s a sign you need to stir-fry in batches. For stir-frying, a wok is perfect. It has high sides to toss your food easily. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet works well too. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir. Non-stick pans are great for easy cleaning but avoid using metal utensils on them. Choose a pan that heats evenly for the best results. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for longer if possible, up to 1 hour, to deepen the flavors of the ginger and garlic. Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance the color and nutrition of your stir-fry. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked in a single layer for an even sear and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam the chicken instead of stir-frying it. Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed rice or quinoa, and consider adding a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast to the dish. {{image_4}} You can swap chicken for other proteins. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based meal. Shrimp adds a nice touch too. If you prefer beef, thin slices work well. For cooking time, shrimp cooks faster, around 3-4 minutes. Tofu takes about 5-7 minutes. Beef needs about 6-8 minutes. Always check for doneness to ensure safety. Adding seasonal veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. Try zucchini, asparagus, or carrots for variety. These options add bright colors and different textures. You can also use leafy greens like spinach or bok choy. They cook quickly and wilt down, adding more nutrition to your meal. Mix and match based on what you like! You can personalize the sauce too. For a sweeter taste, try maple syrup instead of honey. If you want less sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce. Add spices like red pepper flakes for heat or five-spice powder for depth. These changes help create a sauce just right for your taste buds! To keep your sesame ginger chicken stir-fry fresh, follow these steps: - Let the stir-fry cool down to room temperature. - Place it in an airtight container. - Store it in the fridge for up to four days. For best results, use glass or BPA-free plastic containers. They keep food fresh and make reheating easy. To reheat your stir-fry without losing texture, try these methods: - Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. - Stir frequently to ensure even heating. - You can also use a microwave, but cover it with a damp paper towel. This keeps the chicken juicy. Avoid reheating more than once to keep flavors intact. If you want to freeze the stir-fry, follow these steps: - Cool the dish completely before freezing. - Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can. - Label the bags with the date for easy tracking. For thawing, place the bag in the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave for quick thawing, but do so carefully to avoid cooking the chicken. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips for meal prepping sesame ginger chicken stir-fry: - Cook the chicken and vegetables: Stir-fry them as the recipe states. - Store separately: Keep the chicken, veggies, and sauce in separate containers. - Use airtight containers: This helps keep everything fresh. - Reheat properly: When ready to eat, heat them in a skillet. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. If you need a soy sauce substitute, consider these alternatives: - Tamari: This is a gluten-free option. - Coconut aminos: A sweeter, soy-free sauce. - Liquid aminos: A non-soy sauce with similar taste. These options work well in the recipe without losing flavor. To add heat to this stir-fry, try these suggestions: - Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch for a mild kick. - Sriracha: Mix in a teaspoon for a bold flavor. - Fresh chili peppers: Slice and toss them in while cooking. Start with small amounts, then adjust to your taste. Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Here are tips for storing and reheating: - Cool completely: Let it cool before storing. - Use separate containers: Store chicken, veggies, and sauce separately. - Reheat on the stove: This keeps the texture nice. - Add a bit of water: This helps to keep it moist when reheating. Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this recipe. Here are some benefits and taste differences: - Convenient: Frozen veggies are quick and easy to use. - Longer shelf life: They stay fresh longer than fresh vegetables. - Taste: Fresh veggies may be crisper, but frozen will work well. Just remember to thaw and drain excess water before cooking. In this post, we explored how to make sesame ginger chicken stir-fry. We covered key ingredients, cooking oils, garnishes, and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips on enhancing flavor and techniques to avoid common mistakes. With easy variations and storage advice, you can customize this dish to suit your taste. Whether you serve it fresh or as leftovers, this stir-fry is simple and delicious. Enjoy all the flavors and textures that this recipe brings to your table!

Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry

A flavorful stir-fry featuring marinated chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
  • 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 medium green onions, sliced thinly
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • to taste toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with half of the soy sauce, the grated ginger, and minced garlic. Allow it to marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and golden-brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir-fry for approximately 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are vibrant and tender-crisp.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and the cornstarch-water mixture until smooth.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
  • Remove from heat and sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the stir-fry before serving.

Notes

Serve over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, ginger, quick meal, sesame, stir fry

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