Name: Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 - 1 ½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes); 2 cups stir fry mix ((fresh or frozen vegetables)); ½ cup cashews; 1 tablespoon avocado or canola oil; ¼ cup water; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or rice vinegar; ¼ cup brown sugar or a sugar-free alternative; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce; 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon cornstarch ((optional)); Sliced scallions (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

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If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious dinner that brings vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch, look no further than this Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. It’s a dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a medley of colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a sweet and savory sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a busy parent or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to be a hit at your dinner table.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is a favorite for many reasons. First and foremost, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. The combination of succulent chicken, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce offers a delicious balance of taste and nutrition. Plus, it’s highly customizable; you can throw in your favorite veggies or adjust the sauce to suit your palate. Not to mention, the leftovers are just as delightful, making it a perfect meal prep option!

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up this delicious Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 – 1 ½ pounds of skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups of stir fry mix (fresh or frozen vegetables)
½ cup cashews
1 tablespoon avocado or canola oil
¼ cup water
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or rice vinegar
¼ cup brown sugar or a sugar-free alternative
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
Sliced scallions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:

Wok or large skillet: Ideal for even cooking and high heat.
Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and flipping ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping your chicken and veggies.

Build Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe Step by Step

Creating this Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce (or rice vinegar), brown sugar, sesame oil, Sriracha hot sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, and water. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch until fully dissolved.

Step 3: Heat the Wok

Preheat your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the avocado or canola oil and allow it to get hot.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the hot wok. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Stir in the stir fry mix of vegetables. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 6: Pour in the Sauce

Lower the heat and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 7: Add Cashews

Toss in the cashews and mix everything together. Cook for another minute to heat through.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, and serve your Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry hot. Garnish with sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have specific dietary needs, consider these allergy-friendly substitutes:

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Replace cashews with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
For a sugar-free alternative, use erythritol instead of brown sugar.
Swap Sriracha with chili paste for a milder spice level.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To ensure your Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to allow the chicken to brown properly.
Avoid overcooking the vegetables; they should remain vibrant and slightly crunchy.
Don’t skip the marinating step if you have time; it enhances the flavor significantly.
Be cautious with the cornstarch; adding too much can make the sauce overly thick.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is great for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze before adding the cashews.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Ask the Chef

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but keep in mind that it may dry out faster. Ensure you don’t overcook it for the best results.

What vegetables work best in this stir fry?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference!

How can I make it spicier?

If you want to amp up the spice, increase the amount of Sriracha or add fresh chili peppers to the stir fry.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute cashews with almonds or peanuts, depending on your taste and dietary preferences.

Quick Weeknight Wins

Here are some other quick and delicious recipes to try on busy nights:

Sticky Hoisin Ginger Chicken With Snap Peas – A sweet and savory delight that’s ready in a flash.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs One Pan – A simple one-pan meal bursting with flavor.

Before You Go

This Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures that can brighten up your weeknight dinners. With its ease of preparation and the ability to customize, it’s bound to become a staple in your household. So gather your ingredients, fire up that wok, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!

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