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Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry: A Beginner’s Journey to Quick, Flavorful Cooking

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A simple and healthy stir fry with marinated chicken and tender zucchini in a savory sauce. Perfect for beginners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless chicken thigh, bite-sized
  • Marinade:
    • 1 tsp cornstarch
    • ¼ cup light soy sauce
    • 1 tsp sesame oil
    • 2 tsp sugar (or honey)
    • 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar (optional)
  • Stir Fry:
    • 3 garlic, smashed
    • 1 tbsp cooking oil
    • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
    • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
    • Ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Ensure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
  • Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), and rice wine vinegar (if using). Add the chicken and mix well to coat. Set aside to marinate for 30 minutes, or longer if you have the time.
  • Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and then slice it into thin pieces. Smash the garlic cloves using the flat side of a knife.
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat the cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the smashed garlic and cook for a few seconds until fragrant, but don’t let it burn. Add the chicken and all the marinade sauce. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer translucent. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, keeping the sauce in the pan.
  • Cook the Zucchini: Add a little more cooking oil to the pan if needed. Add the sliced zucchini and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the zucchini starts to get tender-crisp.
  • Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the pan. Add the oyster sauce and ground black pepper (if using). Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender-crisp.
  • Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Marinate for flavor.
  • Use high heat.
  • Don’t overcrowd pan.
  • Check chicken doneness.