Zesty Lemon Basil Stir Fry

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
Be the First to Review!

Welcome to a bright and flavorful culinary adventure with our Zesty Lemon Basil Stir Fry. This dish is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients that come together in a symphony of taste, perfect for a quick yet satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Basil Stir Fry

Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, soaking up the sauce's flavors beautifully. Olive oil is used for its healthy fats and subtle flavor. Broccoli florets add a crunchy texture and are bursting with nutrients. Red bell pepper contributes sweetness and a pop of color. Garlic and ginger provide aromatic depth and warmth to the stir fry. Lemon juice and lemon zest bring a zesty freshness that elevates the dish. Soy sauce adds a savory umami richness, and fresh basil leaves offer a hint of peppery sweetness. Finally, a good dash of salt and pepper balances out the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Slice chicken breasts thinly for quicker cooking and more surface area to absorb flavors.
  • Use a sharp knife to make slicing veggies easier and safer.
  • For extra zest, add a bit more lemon zest just before serving.
  • Swap chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice. A side of fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish's zesty notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but dried can be used in a pinch. Use about a teaspoon and add it when you add the soy sauce so it can rehydrate.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Snow peas, snap peas, or sliced carrots make great additions. Adjust cooking time as needed for different veggies.

Zesty Lemon Basil Stir Fry Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced chicken breast. Let it cook undisturbed until the first side is a beautiful golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and repeat on the other side. Once both sides are done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets and red bell pepper slices. Follow up with the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir fry these together, letting the veggies get tender-crisp, which takes about 4 minutes. Keep them moving to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the lemon juice and soy sauce, followed by the lemon zest. Stir everything together, coating the chicken and veggies in this tangy sauce. Let them cook for a minute to meld the flavors.

Finally, add the fresh basil leaves. Stir gently, allowing them to wilt slightly, which takes about a minute. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Uses fresh, simple ingredients with vibrant flavors.
  • A healthy option packed with proteins and veggies.
  • Perfect for meal prep; reheats beautifully.
  • Customizable for a variety of tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, sliced thin
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced chicken breast to the skillet, cooking until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes each side.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add broccoli, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the skillet.
6. Add lemon juice, soy sauce, and lemon zest. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables.
7. Add basil leaves and stir until just wilted, about 1 minute.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!