Zesty Lemon Ginger Chicken Stir Fry

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're craving a quick and flavorful dinner, this Zesty Lemon Ginger Chicken Stir Fry is just the ticket. Combining tangy lemon with the warm spice of ginger, it's a refreshing twist on a classic dish that will invigorate your tastebuds.

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Ginger Chicken Stir Fry

Let's break down the key components of this stir fry. The chicken breast, thinly sliced, serves as the protein foundation, absorbing flavors beautifully. Vegetable oil is used for frying, keeping things light and allowing the other flavors to shine. Fresh ginger and garlic are the aromatic powerhouses here, providing a flavorful base. The trio of red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch. A mix of chicken broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, and lemon zest creates a tangy, savory sauce with a hint of sweetness from honey. A touch of red pepper flakes introduces a gentle heat, while salt and pepper season the dish to perfection. Finally, sesame seeds and green onions provide a fresh and nutty garnish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Slice chicken thinly and evenly to ensure quick and uniform cooking.
  • Pre-prep all your ingredients because the cooking process moves fast.
  • For extra zest, add more lemon zest or a dash of lemon juice before serving.
  • If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to minimize sticking and burning.

Serving Suggestions

This stir fry pairs beautifully with jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant accompaniment. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad. A side of edamame or miso soup complements the meal nicely, adding a Japanese-inspired twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe.
What if I don't have fresh ginger?
Ground ginger can be used in a pinch, but use about half the amount as it's more concentrated.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, swap the chicken for tofu or just use extra vegetables. Make sure to adjust the cooking time for these substitutions.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Zesty Lemon Ginger Chicken Stir Fry Recipe Walkthrough

First, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken breast. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through — this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. Don't worry if some bits stick to the pan, they'll add flavor later!

In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring them around for about a minute until they're fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn. Next, add the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir fry these veggies for about 3 to 4 minutes until they're just tender but still crisp. You want them to keep their vibrant color and crunch.

While the veggies cook, mix the chicken broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Once the vegetables are ready, return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over everything, stirring well to coat all the ingredients. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, nutty finish. Serve hot over a bed of cooked white rice.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to make — ready in about 30 minutes.
  • Perfect balance of zesty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
  • Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious meal.
  • Uses common pantry ingredients — no special shopping trip needed!
  • Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1/2 cup snap peas
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced
Cooked white rice, for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, minced ginger, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the red bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. In a small bowl, mix chicken broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, and red pepper flakes.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over the ingredients. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
8. Serve hot over cooked white rice.

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