Healthy Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Vital Meals Studio

I love making this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry Bowl when I want something quick yet satisfying. The colorful mix of fresh vegetables combined with tender chicken creates a vibrant dish that not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. It’s a versatile recipe too; you can easily swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Each bite is a little burst of flavor and texture, making dinner an enjoyable experience without the guilt!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:48:43.502Z

When I first attempted a stir fry, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The key is to prep all the ingredients before you start cooking, so you can maintain that perfect crunch and vibrant colors.

Using a mix of bell peppers and broccoli not only adds great nutrients but also a variety of textures. I often include a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil at the end to enhance the umami flavor, making this dish truly irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutritious boost
Quick cooking method keeps flavors vibrant and fresh
Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences

Mastering the Stir Fry Technique

The secret to a successful stir fry lies in high heat and quick cooking. Make sure your pan or wok is preheated before adding the oil; this helps to create that signature sear on the chicken. When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan, or it might steam instead of sear. Cook the chicken until it’s evenly browned with a firm texture, which should take around 5-7 minutes. If the chicken starts sticking, it's a sign that you need more oil or that it’s not ready to flip yet.

Another essential tip is to have your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Once you start cooking, the process moves quickly, and having everything chopped in advance allows you to focus on getting that perfect char on your veggies and proteins. The combination of garlic and ginger adds an aromatic depth; be careful not to burn them as they can become bitter if overcooked.

Choosing Vegetables Wisely

This stir fry is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables. For instance, snap peas, zucchini, or asparagus work wonderfully and can be added at varying cooking times based on their thickness. When stir-frying, aim for vibrant colors and slightly crisp textures; this indicates that the vegetables are cooked but still retain their nutrients and flavor. If you're using heartier vegetables like carrots, consider slicing them thinner to ensure they cook evenly with the quicker-cooking ingredients.

When adding the broccoli, a quick blanch beforehand can enhance its color and tenderness. Just submerge it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes and then shock it in ice water before incorporating it into the stir fry. This method not only maintains the bright green color but also ensures that it doesn't overcook during the final stir-fry phase.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry Bowl can be a great meal prep option. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply add the stir fry to a hot pan over medium heat until warmed through—this helps retain the crispness of the vegetables. If you'd like to freeze it, consider separating the chicken and veggies into smaller portions, which can last up to three months. The flavors will meld in the freezer, making for a delicious quick meal later.

For serving, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a burst of freshness and added texture. You could also pair this dish with a side of brown rice or quinoa to make it even more filling. I love to drizzle a little extra soy sauce or a splash of Sriracha for a kick of heat; it’s the little touches that elevate this nutritious meal!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious stir fry:

For the Stir Fry

1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced
2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Healthy Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry Bowl:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken and preparing all the vegetables. Having everything ready to go makes for an efficient cooking process.

Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the sliced onions, garlic, ginger, and mixed bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft but still crisp.

Finish with Sauce

Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the stir fry, mixing well to combine. Toss in the broccoli and stir for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot in bowls, and enjoy your colorful and nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try topping with sesame seeds or fresh cilantro before serving. You can also add cooked rice or noodles to make it a complete meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to adjust the recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions, swapping chicken for tofu can be a fantastic vegetarian alternative. Firm tofu should be pressed and cut into cubes, then cooked until golden for that satisfying texture. Additionally, tamari can be used in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option, preserving the umami flavors without the gluten.

You can also incorporate different herbs and spices depending on your palate—like red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh basil for an aromatic twist. I enjoy using fresh cilantro for garnish, as it brightens the entire dish and adds a layer of freshness that complements the stir-fry beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stir fry ends up watery, it might mean the heat was too low or the vegetables were added too early. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding ingredients, and add the vegetables in batches if necessary so they retain moisture without steaming. Another common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness; using a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F) can help you avoid this.

Lastly, if the flavors don’t seem balanced, a splash more soy sauce or sesame oil can enhance the flavor. A pinch of sugar can also help reduce bitterness from overcooked garlic. Adjust to your taste and remember, it’s all about making each bite enjoyable!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be a time saver. Just remember to thaw and drain them before adding to the stir fry.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Simply replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just cook it right before serving.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef depending on your preference.