Spring Veggie Chicken Stir-Fry

Name: Spring Veggie Chicken Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 cup snap peas; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 3 green onions, chopped; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup water

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipes

I love springtime because it brings such vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and this Spring Veggie Chicken Stir-Fry takes full advantage of that! With crisp vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, and snap peas, combined with tender chicken, each bite bursts with life. My secret is a homemade sauce that balances sweetness and savory notes perfectly, making this dish irresistible. In just 30 minutes, we can whip up a colorful, nutritious meal that tastes like spring on a plate!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:33:27.280Z

Creating this Spring Veggie Chicken Stir-Fry was an exciting culinary adventure for me. I experimented with different seasonal vegetables and discovered that a quick sauté keeps them perfectly crisp while still vibrant. The colors are not only beautiful but retain the nutritional value that we all aim for in our meals.

I found that marinating the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic beforehand enhances the flavor tremendously. It’s a simple method that ensures each piece is infused with deliciousness, making every bite of this stir-fry a delightful experience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh, vibrant spring vegetables
Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes
Customizable with your favorite protein options

The Importance of Fresh Vegetables

In this Spring Veggie Chicken Stir-Fry, using fresh, in-season vegetables not only enhances the dish's flavor but also its nutritional value. Bell peppers provide a sweet crunch, while asparagus introduces a delicate earthiness. Snap peas add a pop of color and sweetness, contributing to the overall freshness that’s key to a spring dish. When selecting your vegetables, look for vibrant, firm produce for the best texture and taste. If fresh veggies aren’t available, you can opt for frozen alternatives, but adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Each vegetable in this stir-fry plays a vital role in creating a balanced dish. For example, green onions are not just a garnish; they add a sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken and the sweetness of the sauce. Try to chop the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and presentation. Remember, the beauty of a stir-fry lies in its vibrant colors, so don’t skimp on the variety—combine red, green, and yellow veggies for appeal and texture.

Tips for Perfect Chicken

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken in a stir-fry is all about heat control and timing. I recommend using high heat when cooking the chicken, as this allows for a quick sear and locks in moisture, resulting in tender pieces. Slice the chicken into uniform pieces, around 1/2 inch thick, to ensure they cook simultaneously. For even better results, marinate the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and honey for 15-30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor and tenderness.

If you seek alternative protein options, this stir-fry is versatile. You can use shrimp, tofu, or even beef as substitutes. For tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture and ensure it absorbs the flavors better. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as seafood cooks faster than chicken, while beef will require a similar searing approach to get the right texture. Always check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer: chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a colorful and nutritious stir-fry.

For the Stir-Fry

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup snap peas
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
3 green onions, chopped

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stir-fry.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.

Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add bell peppers, asparagus, and snap peas, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, pour the sauce over, and toss everything together for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Enjoy your colorful spring stir-fry!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables or proteins based on the season or your preference. This dish also works wonderfully with tofu or shrimp for a variation.

Serving Suggestions

This Spring Veggie Chicken Stir-Fry pairs wonderfully with brown rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can even serve it over a bed of fresh greens for a light, refreshing twist. For an extra flavor kick, consider sprinkling some sesame seeds or crushed cashews on top before serving. These add an appealing crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

If you’d like to assemble your own bowls, consider providing a variety of sauces on the side, such as chili garlic sauce or hoisin, for guests to customize their experience. This is especially great for family gatherings or meal prep, where preferences may vary. Cooked, the stir-fry can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time on busy weeknights, you can prep your ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables and slice the chicken the night before or the morning of. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to a week. This way, when it’s time to cook, you can assemble the stir-fry and have dinner ready in about 15 minutes.

If you plan to freeze leftovers, allow the stir-fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the dish and prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes, and enjoy a taste of spring even in the depths of winter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat for best results.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Just briefly sauté them until heated through, but be cautious not to overcook to maintain that crisp texture.

→ What can I serve with this stir-fry?

Serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a heartier meal, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.