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Stir-frying is quick, easy, and endlessly delicious—especially when your chicken has been soaking in a flavorful marinade. This sweet-and-savory marinade combines classic Asian-inspired flavors with a touch of sweetness to make tender, juicy chicken that shines in any stir-fry. Gather a few pantry staples and get ready to whip up something that’s as fast as it is mouthwatering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for sauce thickening)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable oil, for cooking
- Your favorite stir-fry vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
Instructions
First, place the chopped chicken into a bowl or zip-top bag. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little punch. If you plan to have a thicker sauce, sprinkle in the cornstarch and stir until it’s fully incorporated.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, then seal the bag or cover your bowl. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (though an hour or two of marinating time will give you even more flavor).
When you’re ready to cook, heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of vegetable oil, then swirl to coat. Drain the chicken from the marinade (reserving any leftover sauce if you’d like to use it later in the stir-fry) and add the chicken pieces to the hot pan. Stir-fry for several minutes, until the chicken is mostly cooked through.
Toss in your favorite chopped vegetables and stir-fry until they’re crisp-tender, about 3–4 minutes. If you’d like a saucy finish, pour any reserved marinade into the wok and continue cooking until it thickens slightly and coats the chicken and vegetables in a shiny glaze. Adjust seasonings to taste, and serve over steamed rice or noodles.
Finally, garnish with fresh green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and crunch.
This marinade is perfect for anyone looking for a quick weeknight meal or a healthier takeout alternative. You can easily make swaps: use tofu or shrimp in place of chicken, try coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, or trade out the honey for agave. The nutrients in this dish come from lean protein, colorful veggies, and a balanced flavor profile. Whether you’re cooking for a hearty family dinner or a solo meal, this sweet-and-savory marinade transforms ordinary ingredients into a restaurant-worthy stir-fry in no time.
