Name: Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Black pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; ½ medium onion, sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; ½ red bell pepper, sliced; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); ¼ cup packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 6 reviews

If you’re looking for a vibrant, delicious meal that comes together quickly yet feels like a special treat, this Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need in your weeknight rotation. Packed with juicy, tender chicken, crisp-tender veggies, and a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce, every bite bursts with savory-sweet flavor and satisfying texture. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up, satisfies your cravings, and makes you excited for dinner time. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side photos on a white marbled surface. On the left side, there is a shiny silver metal bowl containing a brown sauce with visible small bits and a metal whisk resting inside it. On the right side, there is a black cast iron pan with small, uneven pieces of golden brown cooked food spread out on the surface, some with crispy edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures, from the tender chicken to the bright, crisp vegetables and the perfectly glossy sauce that ties everything together.

Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for easy slicing and quick cooking.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the chicken before cooking.
Black pepper: Freshly ground for a mild kick that enhances overall flavor.
Cornstarch: Coats the chicken to create a light crust and helps thicken the sauce later.
Olive oil: Used in stages for cooking chicken and veggies without overpowering flavors.
Onion: Sliced thinly to soften but still add sweetness and texture.
Broccoli florets: Keep them on the smaller side for even cooking and vibrant color.
Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a mild, sweet crunch to the stir fry.
Chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce, bringing richness and depth.
Soy sauce: Provides umami and essential saltiness to balance the sweetness.
Rice vinegar: Or substitute apple cider vinegar for a mild tang that brightens the sauce.
Brown sugar: Gives the sauce its classic sweet dimension and caramel notes.
Fresh ginger: Grated for a fresh, spicy zing that lifts the entire dish.
Garlic cloves: Minced for pungent aroma and authentic flavor in the sauce.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

The key to success in this recipe is in the prep. Cut all vegetables into bite-size pieces to ensure they cook evenly and quickly. Keeping broccoli pieces small helps them soften just right while maintaining a bit of crunch. Having all ingredients ready keeps the cooking flow smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Tangy Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk this mixture well until smooth and set aside. This sauce is the heart of the stir fry, bringing perfect sweet, salty, and tangy layers that coat the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Step 3: Season and Coat the Chicken

Cut the chicken into uniform, 1-inch pieces for quick, even cooking. Toss with garlic powder and black pepper for seasoning, then coat thoroughly with cornstarch. This step ensures a light, crispy exterior once cooked and also helps the sauce cling to each bite.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken, shaking off excess cornstarch before placing it in the pan. Cook about 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a plate and repeat with remaining chicken, adding extra oil as needed. This careful cooking gives you juicy, flavorful chicken pieces without any greasiness.

Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables

If your pan looks dry after cooking the chicken, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the onion first, stirring for about a minute until fragrant and starting to soften. Follow with broccoli and red bell pepper, cooking for roughly 3 minutes while stirring frequently. The vegetables should be tender-crisp, offering a fresh crunch that perfectly contrasts the tender chicken.

Step 6: Combine Everything with the Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Give your sauce a quick whisk and pour it over the mixture. Stir constantly as the sauce bubbles and thickens, typically within 30 to 60 seconds. This step coats every ingredient in glossy, flavorful sauce that makes this Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe irresistible.

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

In a shallow white bowl, there is a base layer of white rice covering the bottom. On top of the rice, there is a layer of golden-brown cooked chicken pieces evenly spread out. Mixed among the chicken are bright green broccoli florets, vibrant red bell pepper strips, and light yellow chunks of cooked onion and pineapple. The vegetables look tender and are glossy with a light sauce that also coats the chicken, giving a shiny texture. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions on top for a nutty flavor and a fresh, vibrant finish. These small touches make the dish look restaurant-quality and introduce slight textural contrasts.

Side Dishes

This Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up the glorious sauce. For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or with a side of quinoa for added protein and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stir fry inside lettuce wraps for a handheld delight or pile it atop warm noodles for a comforting bowl meal. You can also pack it in meal prep containers for an easy, delicious lunch during busy weekdays.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even further after resting, making for a tasty next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, then freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave a little space as the sauce might expand slightly when frozen.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the chicken tender and the veggies crisp.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli and bell pepper?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini based on what you have available or prefer. Just keep them cut into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly.

Is there a substitute for soy sauce in this recipe?

Yes, you can use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free or soy-free alternative. They will give a similar umami flavor but slightly different taste profiles.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Definitely! Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The sauce and vegetables will remain delicious and satisfying.

What is the best way to thicken the teriyaki sauce?

The cornstarch in the sauce is what thickens it beautifully. Make sure to whisk it well with the liquids before cooking, and stir constantly once added to the pan to avoid lumps.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Try adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a kick. Alternatively, add chopped fresh chili peppers to the vegetables during cooking for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe enough—it’s a delicious, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night you want something quick yet special. The balance of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and that irresistible sauce never fails to impress. Once you give it a try, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to dinners to share with friends and family!