Save This No-Fuss 20-Minute Stir-Fry is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. Packed with fresh, vibrant vegetables, tender protein, and a flavorful homemade sauce, it's a quick and easy dish that's both nutritious and delicious. Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a healthy, satisfying meal.
I always turn to this stir-fry recipe when I'm short on time but still want something wholesome. It has become a staple in my household because everyone can customize it with their favorite protein and veggies.
Ingredients
- Protein of choice (1 lb): Use chicken breast, tofu, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef.
- Broccoli florets (1 cup): Adds crunch and nutrition.
- Red bell pepper (1): Diced for color and sweetness.
- Carrot (1 medium): Sliced for texture.
- Peas (½ cup): Sweet and tender addition.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Minced for flavor.
- Fresh ginger (1 tsp): Grated to add zing.
- Cooking oil (1 tbsp): Use for sautéing.
- Sesame seeds (1 tsp): For garnish.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped for garnish.
- Soy sauce (3 tbsp): Base for the stir-fry sauce.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tbsp): Adds sweetness.
- Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): For tang.
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp) mixed with water (2 tbsp): Thickens the sauce.
- Sesame oil (½ tsp): Optional for extra aroma.
- Red pepper flakes or sriracha (½ tsp): Optional for spice.
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Chop all vegetables and protein into bite-sized pieces. Mix the stir-fry sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Cook the Protein:
- Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the protein and cook for 4, 5 minutes until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add another drizzle of oil if needed. Toss in the broccoli, bell pepper, carrots, and peas. Stir-fry for 3, 4 minutes until crisp-tender. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked protein to the pan. Pour in the stir-fry sauce and stir well. Let cook for 1, 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients.
- Serve & Garnish:
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. Serve warm over steamed rice or noodles.
Save We love sharing this meal together during busy weeks because it brings everyone to the table fast. My kids especially enjoy adding extra veggies and choosing their own toppings.
Serving Suggestions
This stir-fry tastes great over steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa. Add a squeeze of lime juice or extra cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to swap out the protein or vegetables based on what's in your fridge. You can even add cashews or water chestnuts for extra crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave and enjoy the flavors all over again.
Save This recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights when you want something healthy and satisfying. Try customizing it each time for an easy weeknight favorite.
Recipe Guide
- → Which proteins can be used for this dish?
Chicken breast, tofu, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef work well, providing versatility for different preferences.
- → Can I substitute vegetables in the stir-fry?
Yes, mix and match seasonal vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for added variety and flavor.
- → How is the sauce thickened?
Cornstarch mixed with water is added to the soy sauce blend, helping the sauce become glossy and cling to ingredients.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Enjoy it over steamed rice or noodles, or simply on its own for a lighter option. Garnishing adds extra flavor.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor?
Sprinkle sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro for a boost in texture, aroma, and visual appeal.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for mild heat, adjusting the amount to fit your spice preference.