Quick Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry in a skillet, a healthy dinner option

Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry: Quick, Sunny Skillet Dinner

28 décembre 2025 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction

This skillet dinner is built for busy weeknights when you want something fast but satisfying. Lean chicken and tender zucchini cook up in one pan with minimal prep. Use thin slices to speed cooking and a hot pan to lock in flavor. Pair with rice or a simple salad for a complete plate. Try a similar one pan dinner like this creamy Mediterranean chicken skillet for another fast option.

Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry: Quick, Sunny Skillet Dinner

Why This Recipe Works

Chicken cooks quickly when sliced thin and stirred in a hot skillet, so the total time stays under 30 minutes. Zucchini has a high water content but softens fast if added after the chicken starts browning, avoiding sogginess. Garlic and soy sauce give savory depth with almost no prep time. Olive oil keeps the pan slick and gives a light, clean finish that won’t overwhelm the vegetables. The recipe is flexible so you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or extra garlic for punch. For another comforting, layered dinner using chicken, check this Marry Me Chicken lasagna.

Flavor and Texture

The contrast between crisp edged chicken and slightly tender zucchini makes each bite interesting. Garlic brings aromatic heat while soy sauce adds umami and a touch of salt. If you like more char, let the chicken brown a bit longer before adding the zucchini. Red pepper flakes lift the whole plate with bright spice if you want complexity without extra steps. This is a light, fresh dinner that still feels hearty thanks to the protein.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, sliced
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Step by Step Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add minced garlic and sliced zucchini to the skillet.
Stir fry for an additional 5 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
Pour in soy sauce, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Toss everything together and cook for another minute.
Serve hot.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Slice the chicken and zucchini while the pan heats to shave minutes off total time. Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife for even slices that cook uniformly. If you prefer extra savor, add a splash of low sodium chicken broth instead of more oil. Preminced garlic in a jar can save prep time but fresh gives better flavor. For crispier results, cook chicken in a single layer without crowding the pan and flip only once.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool leftovers fully before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep zucchini from getting mushy. You can cook chicken ahead and add zucchini at reheating for a fresher texture. This recipe also works well in meal prep bowls alongside grains and quick steamed greens.

Short Closing Note

Simple steps, one pan, and a bright finish make this an ideal quick dinner. It scales easily for two or four and adapts to what you have on hand.

Conclusion

If you like fast skillet dinners with bold flavor, you may enjoy the inspiration behind other popular recipes like Marry Me Chicken – Little Sunny Kitchen, which shows how a few pantry staples can transform simple chicken into a memorable meal.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.