5-Ingredient Chicken Stir Fry Under 20 Minutes

A quick and healthy meal doesn’t always need to be complicated. If you’re in the mood for something flavorful, nutritious, this 5-Ingredient Chicken Stir Fry Under 20 Minutes is your perfect solution. With just five simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a delicious stir fry that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.

Why Choose a 5-Ingredient Stir Fry?

In today’s fast-paced world, preparing meals that are both quick and wholesome is key. A stir fry offers an ideal solution, allowing you to mix protein, veggies, and seasoning into one vibrant dish. When you’re pressed for time or looking to streamline your meal prep, keeping the ingredient list short helps save time without sacrificing flavor. This chicken stir fry recipe delivers on both fronts – simplicity and taste.

Here’s the best part – even though there are only five ingredients, the combination creates a bold and satisfying dish. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef looking for a speedy dinner, this recipe will leave you satisfied.

The 5 Essential Ingredients for the Stir Fry

Before diving into the steps, let’s go over the core ingredients that make this dish so easy and delicious. Each ingredient is carefully selected to give your stir fry balanced flavor and a good mix of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.

Chicken Breast: Lean, high in protein, and quick to cook, chicken breast serves as the base for this dish. It absorbs the flavors of the stir fry sauce well, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Bell Peppers: These colorful vegetables not only add a crunch but also a sweet, mild flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. They are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a nutritious addition.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient brings the savory depth needed to create the stir fry’s characteristic umami flavor. It ties everything together with its saltiness and complexity.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat option, olive oil helps with the stir frying process and enhances the flavors of the vegetables and chicken without being too heavy.
Garlic: Aromatic and flavorful, garlic adds a punch of zest and fragrance. It infuses the dish with its distinctive taste and pairs beautifully with the soy sauce and chicken.

How to Make 5-Ingredient Chicken Stir Fry in Under 20 Minutes

1. Preparing the Chicken

To start, you’ll need about 2 chicken breasts, which will serve 2-3 people.

Step 1: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized cubes, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Heat a pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, letting it heat up before adding the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. Preparing the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, wash and slice the vegetables.

Step 1: Slice 1 bell pepper into thin strips or bite-sized chunks. You can choose any color—red, yellow, or green—depending on what’s available or your personal preference.
Step 2: Mince 2-3 garlic cloves. This will add the essential fragrance and flavor to the stir fry.

3. Combining Everything in the Pan

Step 1: Once the chicken is cooked through, add the garlic to the pan. Stir well to combine with the chicken and allow the garlic to cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the bell peppers to the pan and stir fry for an additional 3-4 minutes. The peppers should become tender yet still retain a little crunch for texture.
Step 3: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together to ensure an even coating of the sauce.

4. Final Touches

Step 1: Taste and adjust seasoning. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to add more soy sauce or a pinch of black pepper.
Step 2: Once the vegetables are tender and the chicken is coated in the sauce, remove from heat.
Step 3: Serve immediately, either on its own or with a side of rice or noodles for a more filling meal.

Why This Stir Fry Is Perfect for Busy Days

This 5-Ingredient Chicken Stir Fry checks all the boxes for a quick meal. Here’s why it’s the go-to recipe for a busy evening:

Fast Cooking Time: In under 20 minutes, you’ll have a complete meal, making it ideal for those who are short on time.
Healthy and Wholesome: With lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and minimal oil, this stir fry is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal.
Minimal Prep Work: You don’t need to chop a long list of ingredients. With just five essential components, you get maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Customizable: Feel free to add more vegetables or switch out the chicken for another protein like tofu, shrimp, or beef if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking for the best results. You can thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you choose.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! This stir fry will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to eat.

Q: How do I make this dish gluten-free?
A: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can replace regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Q: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
A: Yes, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can use beef, shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh as alternatives to chicken. The cooking time may vary depending on the protein used.

Conclusion

This 5-Ingredient Chicken Stir Fry is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both fast and flavorful. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. With its customizable nature, it’s easy to adjust based on what you have in your pantry or personal taste preferences.

Give it a try, and in less than 20 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to serve!