Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry
When you’re juggling work, family, and your health, cooking dinner can often feel like just another box to check. That’s where this delightful 5-ingredient ground chicken stir-fry comes in. It’s fast, healthy, versatile, and budget-friendly—the perfect dish for busy parents and anyone craving a no-fuss meal.
With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, you can have a flavorful, restaurant-quality stir-fry on the table in under 20 minutes. The best part? This recipe is as flexible as your pantry—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal-prep Sundays.
5 Key Ingredients (and Substitutions)
You only need five simple ingredients to make this stir-fry. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few ideas if substitutions are necessary:
- Ground Chicken
- Why it works: Lean and protein-packed, ground chicken is a healthier alternative to beef or pork, making it perfect for lighter meals without sacrificing flavor. It absorbs seasonings well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Substitutions: Ground turkey works similarly due to its mild flavor and leanness, while beef offers a heartier option. For vegetarians, plant-based crumbles mimic texture while keeping the dish meat-free.
- Soy Sauce
- Why it works: This staple ingredient adds a rich, savory, umami flavor that forms the backbone of your stir-fry sauce, tying together all the other flavors. It enhances the overall taste and gives the dish depth.
- Substitutions: Tamari is an excellent gluten-free option with a similar taste profile, while coconut aminos provide a slightly sweeter, lower-sodium alternative for those watching their salt intake.
- Garlic
- Why it works: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a bold, aromatic flavor that elevates the overall taste. It’s a simple ingredient that can transform any recipe with its punchy kick.
- Substitutions: If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder adds a milder, convenient alternative, or you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save time while maintaining that classic garlic essence.
- Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas)
- Why it works: Vegetables not only add a satisfying crunch and vibrant color to your dish but also pack in essential vitamins and nutrients, making your meal more balanced and wholesome. Mixing a variety enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Substitutions: Frozen vegetables are a handy option that requires no prep, while other fresh veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms can be swapped in based on your preferences. For ultimate convenience, precut veggie mixes are a great timesaver.
- Olive or Sesame Oil
- Why it works: Essential for sautéing, these oils add a subtle richness to the stir-fry. Sesame oil, in particular, brings a nutty, distinctive flavor that elevates the dish, while olive oil offers a more versatile, neutral taste.
- Substitutions: Vegetable oil, avocado oil, or other neutral cooking oils can be used if you’re running low on olive or sesame oil. Each brings a different twist to the flavor while still doing the job perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Serves: 4
Here’s how to whip up your ground chicken stir-fry in no time, with just a few simple steps:
- Heat the Oil
Start by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking, so it evenly coats the surface of your pan. This will help prevent sticking and ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Cook the Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart into small pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure it browns evenly and doesn’t clump together. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully browned and no longer pink. Lightly season with salt and pepper to build a foundational flavor.
- Sauté the Garlic
Stir in 2-3 cloves of minced garlic, depending on your personal taste preference. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic becomes fragrant, releasing its delicious aroma. Be sure to stir constantly and keep an eye on it to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can add a bitter taste.
- Add Vegetables
Toss in your choice of chopped vegetables. A popular combination is sliced red bell peppers and broccoli florets, but feel free to include snap peas, carrots, zucchini, or any of your favorites. Stir-fry the veggies for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly. Aim for tender-crisp veggies—soft enough to bite through but still brightly colored and slightly firm for that satisfying crunch.
- Mix in the Soy Sauce
Drizzle 3-4 tablespoons of soy sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. For an extra punch of flavor, you can add a splash of rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, or a drop of toasted sesame oil. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce, ensuring it seeps into all the ingredients. Taste your stir-fry and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a little more soy sauce or salt if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well mixed, turn off the heat and let the flavors meld for a moment. Serve your stir-fry over your choice of base—steamed white rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles work beautifully. For an elegant finishing touch, garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Dig in and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This quick meal is as nutritious as it is delicious! Here’s a rough breakdown of its nutritional value, assuming ground chicken and bell peppers are used:
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: ~500mg (varies depending on soy sauce used)
Need fewer carbs? Try serving with cauliflower rice. Want more protein? Add a scrambled egg to the mix.
Tips & Variations
Make this dish your own with the following tips and customization ideas:
- Spice it up: If you love some heat, drizzle in sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch. You can also experiment with hot chili oil for a different kind of spice.
- Add sweetness: Balance the savory soy sauce by stirring in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar. For a natural alternative, try maple syrup—it adds both sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Make it tangy: Brighten up the dish by adding a splash of rice vinegar or squeezing fresh lime juice over the top. This little touch can make the flavors pop even more.
- Go nuts: For an added layer of texture and healthy fats, toss in a handful of roasted cashews or peanuts. Almonds or even sunflower seeds can be fun alternatives.
- Meal prep magic: Save time during the week by doubling the recipe. Store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll reheat beautifully, making it perfect for busy lunches or quick dinners.
And don’t forget—you can change up the vegetables seasonally or with whatever you have in the fridge!
The Perfect Weeknight Hero Dish
When time is short but flavor matters, this 5-ingredient ground chicken stir-fry is here to save the day. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for nights when you need a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s simple to whip up but packed with flavor, making it a go-to option for busy families, working professionals, or anyone looking for a fuss-free dinner.
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use up whatever veggies you have on hand. Add some bell peppers for a pop of color, throw in some broccoli for extra greens, or spice it up with a dash of chili flakes. The possibilities are endless!
Why not give it a try tonight? Share your creative twists and variations with us in the comments—we’d love to hear how you make it your own. Serve it with rice, noodles, or even on its own. Whatever you choose, serve it with love—and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Quick & Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry (5 Ingredients)
- Total Time: PT15M
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This quick and easy ground chicken stir-fry is made with just 5 simple ingredients. A healthy and flavorful meal ready in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need something fast and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Ground Chicken
- Why it works: Lean and protein-packed, ground chicken is a healthier alternative to beef or pork, making it perfect for lighter meals without sacrificing flavor. It absorbs seasonings well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Substitutions: Ground turkey works similarly due to its mild flavor and leanness, while beef offers a heartier option. For vegetarians, plant-based crumbles mimic texture while keeping the dish meat-free.
- Soy Sauce
- Why it works: This staple ingredient adds a rich, savory, umami flavor that forms the backbone of your stir-fry sauce, tying together all the other flavors. It enhances the overall taste and gives the dish depth.
- Substitutions: Tamari is an excellent gluten-free option with a similar taste profile, while coconut aminos provide a slightly sweeter, lower-sodium alternative for those watching their salt intake.
- Garlic
- Why it works: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a bold, aromatic flavor that elevates the overall taste. It’s a simple ingredient that can transform any recipe with its punchy kick.
- Substitutions: If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder adds a milder, convenient alternative, or you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save time while maintaining that classic garlic essence.
- Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas)
- Why it works: Vegetables not only add a satisfying crunch and vibrant color to your dish but also pack in essential vitamins and nutrients, making your meal more balanced and wholesome. Mixing a variety enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Substitutions: Frozen vegetables are a handy option that requires no prep, while other fresh veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms can be swapped in based on your preferences. For ultimate convenience, precut veggie mixes are a great timesaver.
- Olive or Sesame Oil
- Why it works: Essential for sautéing, these oils add a subtle richness to the stir-fry. Sesame oil, in particular, brings a nutty, distinctive flavor that elevates the dish, while olive oil offers a more versatile, neutral taste.
- Substitutions: Vegetable oil, avocado oil, or other neutral cooking oils can be used if you’re running low on olive or sesame oil. Each brings a different twist to the flavor while still doing the job perfectly.
Instructions
Here’s how to whip up your ground chicken stir-fry in no time, with just a few simple steps:
- Heat the Oil
Start by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking, so it evenly coats the surface of your pan. This will help prevent sticking and ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Cook the Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart into small pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure it browns evenly and doesn’t clump together. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully browned and no longer pink. Lightly season with salt and pepper to build a foundational flavor.
- Sauté the Garlic
Stir in 2-3 cloves of minced garlic, depending on your personal taste preference. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic becomes fragrant, releasing its delicious aroma. Be sure to stir constantly and keep an eye on it to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can add a bitter taste.
- Add Vegetables
Toss in your choice of chopped vegetables. A popular combination is sliced red bell peppers and broccoli florets, but feel free to include snap peas, carrots, zucchini, or any of your favorites. Stir-fry the veggies for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly. Aim for tender-crisp veggies—soft enough to bite through but still brightly colored and slightly firm for that satisfying crunch.
- Mix in the Soy Sauce
Drizzle 3-4 tablespoons of soy sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. For an extra punch of flavor, you can add a splash of rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, or a drop of toasted sesame oil. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce, ensuring it seeps into all the ingredients. Taste your stir-fry and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a little more soy sauce or salt if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well mixed, turn off the heat and let the flavors meld for a moment. Serve your stir-fry over your choice of base—steamed white rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles work beautifully. For an elegant finishing touch, garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Dig in and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Notes
- Spice it up: If you love some heat, drizzle in sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch. You can also experiment with hot chili oil for a different kind of spice.
- Add sweetness: Balance the savory soy sauce by stirring in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar. For a natural alternative, try maple syrup—it adds both sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Make it tangy: Brighten up the dish by adding a splash of rice vinegar or squeezing fresh lime juice over the top. This little touch can make the flavors pop even more.
- Go nuts: For an added layer of texture and healthy fats, toss in a handful of roasted cashews or peanuts. Almonds or even sunflower seeds can be fun alternatives.
- Meal prep magic: Save time during the week by doubling the recipe. Store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll reheat beautifully, making it perfect for busy lunches or quick dinners.
- Prep Time: PT5M
- Cook Time: PT10M
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian