Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Savior

If you’re craving restaurant-quality Asian flavors without the takeout wait—or the guilt—this Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is your answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a glossy, umami-rich teriyaki glaze that clings to every bite. Unlike bottled sauces loaded with sugar and preservatives, our homemade version lets you control sweetness and sodium while maximizing freshness. Inspired by the same speed and simplicity as our 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp, this recipe delivers bold flavor in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this stir-fry adapts effortlessly—and cleanup is a breeze.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or canola), divided
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup snap peas or snow peas
  • Optional garnish: sesame seeds, sliced green onions, red pepper flakes

Preparation Steps

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and half the minced garlic. Add chicken slices and toss to coat. Let sit 5–10 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
  2. Make the teriyaki sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together remaining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and remaining garlic. Set aside.
  3. Stir-fry the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid steaming). Sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. Sauté the veggies: Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pan. Toss in carrots and broccoli first (they take longer), stir-frying 2 minutes. Add bell pepper and snap peas; cook 2–3 more minutes until crisp-tender.
  5. Combine and glaze: Return chicken to pan. Pour in teriyaki sauce and stir to coat. Add cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to ingredients.
  6. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

Don’t overcrowd the pan: This is the #1 stir-fry mistake. Overcrowding steams instead of sears—cook in batches if needed. Velveting the chicken: For extra tender chicken, marinate with 1 tsp baking soda for 15 minutes before rinsing and proceeding—common in Chinese kitchens. Sauce thickness: If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth. Too thin? Simmer longer or add another half teaspoon of cornstarch slurry. Time-saver: Use pre-chopped stir-fry veggies from the produce aisle. Flavor boost: Add a splash of mirin or pineapple juice for depth and brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Plate over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic presentation—or try cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Top with extra green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for crunch and visual appeal. Pair with a chilled glass of jasmine green tea or a light Japanese lager like Sapporo to complement the sweet-savory notes. For sides, consider quick-pickled cucumbers or a simple seaweed salad. Leftovers? They reheat beautifully and make excellent lunchbox fillers—just add a splash of water when reheating to revive the sauce. Looking for another speedy protein? Try our 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp for a buttery, aromatic contrast.

Nutritional Summary (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 22g (includes 14g sugars)
Fat: 10g (2g saturated)
Sodium: 890mg (adjust with low-sodium soy sauce if needed)

Health Note: High in lean protein and loaded with colorful veggies, this dish offers a balanced meal. The honey adds natural sweetness, but you can reduce it slightly or use monk fruit syrup for lower sugar. Chicken thighs offer more flavor and moisture, while breasts keep it leaner. Either way, it’s a satisfying indulgence without derailing your goals.

Conclusion: Master the Art of Fast, Flavorful Stir-Fry

The Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry isn’t just dinner—it’s a culinary toolkit for busy lives. With its adaptable ingredients, lightning-fast prep, and restaurant-worthy glaze, it proves that wholesome meals don’t require hours in the kitchen. By mastering the sear, sauce balance, and veggie timing, you’ll unlock endless stir-fry variations. Serve it over rice, noodles, or greens; tweak the spice or sweetness to your taste; and never fear weeknight cooking again. Pair it with our 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp for a surf-and-turf night, or double the batch for meal prep magic. This recipe isn’t just about feeding your body—it’s about savoring flavor without compromise.