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Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe: Perfect for Busy Weeknights

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Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe

Struggling to get dinner on the table after a long day?

Look no further!

This easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe is here to save your busy weeknights.

With minimal prep time and simple, healthy ingredients, this stir-fry will become your new go-to meal.

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, protein-packed dinner that the whole family will love—without the hassle!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Quick and Simple

Time is often the biggest obstacle when it comes to preparing a home-cooked meal, especially on busy weeknights.

This Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe is designed to be ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for those who have little time but still want a healthy and satisfying meal.

With minimal chopping and only a few ingredients, this dish allows you to have dinner on the table faster than ordering takeout.

2. Healthy and Nutritious

This recipe is a nutritional powerhouse. Ground chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, keeping you full and energized without excessive calories or unhealthy fats.

The colorful array of vegetables—like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots—provide a wide range of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Together, they make this meal balanced and nourishing, perfect for maintaining a healthy diet.

Plus, the use of low-sodium soy sauce and a dash of rice vinegar adds flavor without adding too much salt or sugar, making it a heart-healthy option as well.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about stir-fry dishes is their versatility.

This recipe allows you to swap out veggies based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

Not a fan of zucchini?

Add broccoli, snap peas, or even mushrooms. You can also adjust the sauces for a more sweet, savory, or spicy taste depending on your mood.

If you like heat, throw in a dash of sriracha or chili flakes, or keep it mild for a family-friendly dinner.

The recipe can also easily be adapted for different dietary preferences or restrictions, such as using gluten-free tamari for those who are gluten intolerant or substituting tofu for a vegetarian option.

4. One-Pan Meal for Easy Cleanup

After a long day, the last thing anyone wants is to spend time cleaning up multiple pots and pans.

This Ground Chicken Stir-Fry keeps the mess to a minimum by using just one pan for cooking everything, from browning the chicken to stir-frying the vegetables.

With fewer dishes to wash, you can spend more time relaxing and enjoying your meal rather than dealing with a sink full of pots and pans.

5. Packed with Flavor

Despite its simplicity, this recipe doesn’t skimp on flavor.

The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar creates a savory base that coats every bite with a rich umami taste.

Adding optional hoisin sauce gives it a slightly sweet and tangy kick that elevates the dish even further.

The fresh garlic and sesame seeds enhance the flavor profile, making each bite exciting.

Garnishing with cilantro or green onions not only adds color but also gives a final burst of freshness that ties the whole dish together.

6. Meal Prep Friendly

This stir-fry isn’t just a great meal for tonight—it’s also perfect for meal prepping.

It holds up well in the fridge, maintaining its texture and flavor for up to three days.

You can cook a large batch and portion it out for the week, ensuring you have a quick, healthy lunch or dinner ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a meal that tastes just as good as the day you made it.

7. Kid-Friendly and Family Approved

Getting picky eaters to enjoy healthy meals can be a challenge, but this stir-fry is family-friendly and can easily be tailored to suit everyone’s tastes.

The mild flavors and colorful presentation make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

You can even let your kids help choose the veggies they want to include, which increases the chances that they’ll enjoy eating the final dish.

8. Budget-Friendly

Using ground chicken and a variety of affordable vegetables makes this recipe not only healthy but also budget-friendly.

Ground chicken is usually less expensive than other meats like beef or pork, and it cooks faster, saving you both time and money.

The vegetables used in the recipe are commonly available year-round, which keeps costs down while still delivering fresh, nutritious ingredients.

You can also buy in bulk and freeze extras for future use, making it a practical recipe for those looking to save both time and money.


These reasons make this Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe a reliable, go-to dish for busy weeknights, offering convenience, nutrition, and versatility all in one easy recipe!

Ingredients List

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, here’s what you’ll need for this easy recipe:

  • 1 pound of ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons of sesame oil or olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup of sliced carrots
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

(For product recommendations, consider a sturdy non-stick skillet for even cooking and a high-quality chef’s knife for precise veggie slicing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Veggies

Start by prepping your vegetables.

Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and thinly slice the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrots.

If you prefer more variety, you can add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms based on what’s available in your kitchen.

2. Cook the Ground Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until soft. Then, add the ground chicken.

Break it apart with a wooden spatula and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked through.

3. Add the Veggies

Once the chicken is cooked, add the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Toss in the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and carrots.

Stir-fry everything together for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp. For softer veggies, cook an additional 2-3 minutes.

4. Flavor the Stir-Fry

Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar.

Stir well, making sure everything is evenly coated in the sauce.

If you prefer a sweeter or spicier kick, feel free to adjust the sauce mixture with a touch of honey or chili flakes.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finish and Garnish

Remove from heat and sprinkle the stir-fry with sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro or green onions for added flavor and texture.

Serve the stir-fry as-is for a low-carb meal, or over brown rice or noodles if you want a heartier dish.

Nutrition Information

This easy ground chicken stir-fry with veggies is not only delicious but also health-conscious.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional info per serving:

  • Calories: 320 per serving
  • Protein: 26g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g

Customization Tips

One of the best aspects of the Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe is its flexibility.

You can easily adapt it to fit different tastes, dietary needs, and ingredient availability, making it a truly versatile dish.

Here are some customization tips to help you tailor the recipe to your preferences or get creative with what you have on hand:

1. Vegetarian or Vegan Option

If you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, this recipe can be easily modified without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Simply swap the ground chicken for plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas.

For the best tofu results, opt for firm or extra-firm tofu and press it before cooking to remove excess moisture.

You can cube the tofu and sauté it just like the ground chicken, allowing it to soak up the stir-fry sauce and add delicious texture to the dish.

For a more meat-like alternative, tempeh or plant-based ground “meats” available at most grocery stores can also be used.

To keep the dish fully vegan, ensure that you use soy sauce or tamari instead of fish-based sauces, and omit or replace the optional hoisin sauce with a vegan-friendly alternative.

2. Gluten-Free Adaptation

Making this stir-fry gluten-free is a breeze.

Simply replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which offer the same savory flavor without gluten.

Hoisin sauce, often used in Asian-inspired dishes, can also contain gluten, so check for a gluten-free version or use a splash of gluten-free teriyaki sauce instead.

Many stir-fry sauces available online or in stores are labeled as gluten-free, giving you a wide variety of options for flavoring this dish.

3. Spice It Up

For those who enjoy some heat, this dish is highly adaptable when it comes to spice level.

Adding a tablespoon of sriracha, chili paste, or sambal oelek will introduce a spicy kick to the recipe.

Alternatively, sprinkle red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chilies into the pan along with the veggies to amp up the heat.

For a tangy-spicy fusion, you can add a splash of hot sauce or chili-infused soy sauce to the mix.

If you’re cooking for a family with different spice preferences, serve the spicy sauces or chili flakes on the side so each person can adjust the heat to their liking.

4. Switch Up the Veggies

This recipe is perfect for using whatever vegetables you have on hand, so feel free to get creative!

In addition to the bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots mentioned in the recipe, you can add other veggies like:

  • Broccoli or Cauliflower: Adds a nice crunch and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
  • Snow Peas or Snap Peas: These give a sweet, crisp texture that complements the savory stir-fry.
  • Mushrooms: Button mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor to balance the lighter veggies.
  • Spinach or Kale: If you’re looking to sneak in some greens, toss in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale at the end. They wilt quickly and add a boost of nutrients.
  • Cabbage: Thinly sliced cabbage or bok choy is another great option that will add texture and bulk to the stir-fry without overpowering the other flavors.

Feel free to mix and match according to what’s in your fridge or what’s in season!

5. Change the Protein

If ground chicken isn’t your favorite, or you want to switch things up, this stir-fry can be made with a variety of proteins:

  • Ground Turkey or Beef: Both are excellent substitutes for ground chicken. Turkey is similarly lean, while beef offers a richer flavor.
  • Shrimp or Tofu: For a seafood option, use shrimp—just cook them until pink and opaque before adding them to the stir-fry. If you prefer a plant-based protein, tofu is a fantastic substitute.
  • Sliced Chicken Breast or Thighs: Instead of ground chicken, thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since sliced chicken may take a bit longer to cook through.

Using different proteins gives you the flexibility to adapt the recipe to dietary preferences, and it keeps things fresh, so you don’t get bored with the same dish over and over.

6. Change Up the Sauce

The soy sauce-based stir-fry sauce in this recipe can be adjusted to suit your flavor preferences or dietary needs.

You can experiment with different sauces or additions to bring new dimensions of flavor to the dish:

  • Teriyaki Sauce: If you like a sweeter sauce, swap out the soy sauce for teriyaki. Teriyaki adds a caramelized flavor and pairs wonderfully with chicken and veggies.
  • Peanut Sauce: For a richer, nutty taste, try adding a few tablespoons of peanut sauce or stir in some peanut butter with soy sauce and lime juice to create a Thai-inspired version of the stir-fry.
  • Ginger and Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, add freshly grated ginger along with the garlic. It adds a warm, spicy note to the dish that complements the savory soy sauce.
  • Coconut Aminos: If you’re looking for a soy-free option, coconut aminos work as a delicious alternative to soy sauce. They have a slightly sweeter flavor but still provide the umami kick you expect in a stir-fry.

Feel free to mix different sauces and seasonings to create your own signature stir-fry flavor.

7. Serve Over Your Favorite Base

While this stir-fry can be served as-is for a low-carb, veggie-packed meal, it also pairs perfectly with a variety of bases to make it more filling:

  • Rice: Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or even fried rice for a more traditional stir-fry meal. You can even use cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
  • Noodles: Stir-fried noodles like soba, udon, or rice noodles are great options to soak up all the savory sauce. Simply cook the noodles separately and toss them into the stir-fry at the end for an extra hearty dish.
  • Quinoa or Couscous: For a grain that’s packed with protein, quinoa is a fantastic base that complements the stir-fry. Couscous also works well for a quick and easy alternative to rice.
  • Lettuce Wraps: For a fresh, crunchy twist, use the stir-fry as a filling for lettuce wraps. Butter lettuce or romaine leaves make excellent low-carb “wraps” that still provide that satisfying crunch.

8. Meal Prep and Storage

If you’re someone who loves to meal prep, this stir-fry recipe is perfect for making in advance.

You can easily prepare a large batch and store it in individual containers to reheat throughout the week. Here are a few tips for meal prep success:

  • Store Separately: If you’re serving the stir-fry over rice or noodles, consider storing them separately to prevent them from becoming soggy when reheated.
  • Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well, too. Simply portion it out and store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

By customizing this Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe to fit your preferences, dietary needs, and available ingredients, you can create a meal that’s tailored to your taste buds every single time.

The flexibility of this recipe makes it a great option for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen while still enjoying a delicious, nutritious dinner.


These customization tips make this recipe not only versatile but also a staple that you can return to time and time again, adapting it to suit different cravings or dietary goals.

Did you try this Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe?

Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!

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Printable Recipe Card

Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe

Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe

Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe

Norah Kay
This Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a healthy, flavorful meal fast. Loaded with lean protein and fresh veggies, this dish is not only nutritious but also quick to make. Customize it to your taste with different veggies or sauces, and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner in just 20 minutes!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 zucchini thinly sliced
  • 1 cup sliced carrots
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce optional
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Prep your veggies by dicing the onion mincing the garlic, and slicing the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrots.
  • In a large skillet or wok heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 2 minutes until soft.
  • Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked and browned.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bell pepper zucchini, and carrots, and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
  • Pour in the soy sauce hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir well to coat the veggies and chicken evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds cilantro, or green onions. Serve as-is or over rice or noodles.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Potassium: 700mg
  • Vitamin A: 120% DV
  • Vitamin C: 85% DV
  • Calcium: 6% DV
  • Iron: 10% DV

Notes

Recipe Tips:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables. If you’re short on time, pre-chopped veggies or frozen stir-fry blends can work just as well.
  • Make It Low-Carb: Swap the rice or noodles for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep this dish low-carb and keto-friendly.
  • Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the stir-fry during the final minute of cooking.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This stir-fry stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prep—just store in airtight containers and reheat when ready to eat.
  • Cook Veggies to Preference: For crunchier veggies, cook them for less time. If you prefer them softer, extend the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
  • Add a Crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle chopped cashews or peanuts on top before serving.
Keyword Easy Chicken Stir-Fry, Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe, Healthy Stir-Fry Recipe, Quick Dinner Recipes

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Keywords: Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies Recipe, Easy Chicken Stir-Fry, Healthy Stir-Fry Recipe, Quick Dinner Recipes


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