Description

A quick and flavorful Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry featuring tender marinated chicken thighs and crisp zucchini slices cooked in a savory mix of soy, oyster sauce, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that comes together in just 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Marinade

1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 cup light soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons sugar (or honey)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Stir Fry

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cloves garlic, smashed
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise and then sliced
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
Ground black pepper (optional)

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the marinade. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Heat the Pan: Warm the cooking oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat, preparing it for stir frying.
Cook Garlic and Chicken: Add the smashed garlic to the hot oil and quickly stir to release aroma. Then add the marinated chicken pieces and stir fry for about 2 minutes until the chicken turns opaque, indicating it’s partially cooked.
Remove Chicken: Take the chicken out of the pan and set aside, leaving the flavorful sauce in the pan for the vegetables.
Cook Zucchini: Add the sliced zucchini to the same pan and stir fry for approximately 5 minutes until the zucchini becomes tender but still retains a slight bite.
Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the pan, add the oyster sauce, and mix everything together. Continue stir frying for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld. Optionally add ground black pepper to taste.
Serve: Serve the stir fry hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor absorption.
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if preferred, but thighs provide more tenderness and flavor.
Adjust sugar or honey quantity based on your preferred sweetness level.
For a spicier version, add chili flakes or sliced fresh chili during stir frying.
Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture of the zucchini and chicken.