Aromatic Asian Chicken Stir-Fry with Crisp Vegetables
This vibrant stir-fry features tender, marinated chicken breast strips complemented by a colorful medley of crisp yellow bell peppers and sugar snap peas. The dish is elevated with a fragrant blend of fresh ginger, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. A zesty sauce, brightened with a touch of lime, brings everything together for a quick, satisfying meal that's bursting with authentic Asian flavors and textures.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 375 kcal
Large wok or 12-inch skillet
Sharp chef's knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
2 Small mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Microplane or fine grater
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce [30ml]
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry [15ml]
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil [5ml]
- 1/4 teaspoon White pepper
Protein
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips [680g]
Produce
- 2 medium Yellow bell peppers sliced into thin strips (about 2 cups / 300g)
- 2 cups Sugar snap peas strings removed [200g]
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Fresh ginger grated [20g]
- 2 Green onions thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
- 1 Lime zest and juice
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce [45ml]
- 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar [30ml]
- 1 tablespoon Honey [15ml]
- 1 teaspoon Chili oil optional [5ml]
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch [8g]
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1/4 teaspoon White pepper
Dry Goods
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil divided [30ml]
Marinate the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and white pepper for the marinade.
Toss chicken strips with the marinade in a separate bowl. Let sit for 15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
Prepare the Sauce
In another small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chili oil (if using), cornstarch, lime zest, and juice from half the lime. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until smoking.
Add marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until golden brown on one side.
Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until chicken is just cooked through. Remove from wok and set aside.
Stir-Fry Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same wok, add remaining oil over medium-high heat.
Add white parts of green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add yellow bell peppers and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Sprinkle Chinese five-spice powder and white pepper over vegetables, tossing to combine.
Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables.
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and everything is well combined.
Remove from heat and squeeze the juice from the remaining lime half over the stir-fry.
Marinating Time: The recipe includes a 15-minute marinating time for the chicken, which is included in the prep time.
Substitutions: If Shaoxing wine is unavailable, dry sherry can be used as a substitute.
Heat Adjustment: The chili oil is optional. Adjust the amount or omit entirely based on your preferred spice level.
Serving Suggestion: This stir-fry pairs well with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Keyword Asian Cuisine, Chicken Stir-Fry, Easy Dinner, Quick Meal