After a long day filled with endless tasks and deadlines, the last thing I want to think about is dinner. That’s why I love this Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry — it saves me time without sacrificing flavor! With its juicy chicken thighs, vibrant carrots, and sweet onions, this dish magically transforms pantry staples into a delightful meal in under 30 minutes. The best part? A splash of rice wine at the end elevates the aroma, turning each bite into a flavorful escape.
It’s versatile too! Feel free to swap out veggies or proteins to match your cravings. Whether served over a bed of fluffy rice or tangled noodles, this stir fry is sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy recipe that just might help you rediscover the joy of home-cooked meals!
Why You’ll Love This Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flavorful and satisfying: The savory soy sauce and tender chicken thighs create a taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
Customizable to your taste: Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand or swap the chicken for your favorite protein, making it endlessly adaptable.
Quick cooking time: Dinner is on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or friends gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table! Want more inspiration? Check out my delicious guide on quick and easy meals for more delightful options.
Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
• Boneless Chicken Thighs – 300g, the main protein source; skinless or bone-in thighs can also be used, just adjust the cooking time.
• Sliced Onion – 3/4 cup, adds sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Shredded Carrot – 1/4 cup, offers a pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness.
• Soy Sauce – 1 tablespoon, provides a savory depth to your stir fry.
• Dark Soy Sauce (optional) – 1 teaspoon, adds color and mild sweetness; you can substitute with regular soy sauce if unavailable.
• Rice Wine – 3 tablespoons, enhances flavor and aroma; for a non-alcoholic version, use white wine or omit this ingredient.
• Oil – 3 tablespoons, for cooking; use olive oil for healthier benefits.
• Chopped Spring Onion – 2 tablespoons, for garnishing freshness and crunch.
• Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons, helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a nice coating.
• Minced Garlic – 2 cloves, adds delightful aromatic flavor.
Feel free to explore the world of flavors with this Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry!
How to Make Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry
Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with soy sauce, dark soy sauce, minced garlic, cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons of rice wine. Allow this to marinate for 15 minutes, adding a little water if it feels too dry.
Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Toss in the marinated chicken strips, ensuring they are separated as they cook. Cook for about 5 minutes until they’re cooked through and golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Cook Vegetables: In the same pan, add an additional 2 tablespoons of oil. Toss in the sliced onions and shredded carrots. Sauté them for around 5 minutes until softened, allowing their natural sweetness to bloom.
Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, along with the chopped spring onions. Stir fry everything over high heat for an additional 20-30 seconds. Just before serving, finish with a splash of rice wine to elevate the flavors.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry
Even Cooking: Ensure chicken strips are uniform in size for consistent cooking throughout. Uneven pieces can lead to some being undercooked while others are overdone.
Non-Stick Pan: Using a non-stick pan can reduce the amount of oil needed and prevent the chicken from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Don’t Overcook Veggies: Overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables. Sauté just until they’re tender but still crisp to maintain that pleasant crunch.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra soy sauce or cornstarch if you desire a thicker sauce. This helps tailor the Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry to your perfect flavor profile.
Make It Your Own: Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins. This recipe is versatile; explore what you have on hand!
How to Store and Freeze Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry fresh while flavors deepen over time.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the stir fry completely before freezing to maintain taste and texture.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, typically 5-7 minutes.
Individual Portions: Consider freezing in single servings for easy and quick meals on busy nights. This allows you to enjoy your delicious stir fry whenever you need a fast dinner!
Make Ahead Options
This Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply combine the chicken with soy sauces, garlic, cornstarch, and rice wine, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop onions and shred carrots ahead of time, keeping them fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just heat oil, add the marinated chicken and vegetables, and stir fry. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a quick and delicious meal ready in minutes, perfectly suited for your busy schedule!
Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish, enhancing flavors and textures to suit your taste buds.
Veggie Boost: Add red bell peppers, broccoli, or shiitake mushrooms for extra nutrition and vibrant color. These veggies not only elevate the dish aesthetically but provide a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.
Protein Swap: Replace chicken thighs with tofu, shrimp, or beef for a different protein texture and taste. Each option brings its own unique flair to this versatile stir fry.
Saucy Twist: Use hoisin or oyster sauce for added richness if desired, combining it with the soy sauce for a deeper flavor profile. This little adjustment transforms the dish into a sweet-savory delight that’s sure to impress.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers to ramp up the heat level. A hint of spice can awaken the palate and make your meal an exhilarating experience!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint towards the end of cooking. They add a bright finish and aromatic lift, making each bite refreshing and aromatic.
Noodle Swap: Serve over rice noodles instead of traditional options. This delightful change creates a different texture and complements the sauce perfectly, absorbing the flavors beautifully.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving for a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness. This adds a refreshing twist that balances the savory elements.
Nutty Goodness: Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for an added layer of crunch and flavor. The nuttiness elevates the dish to new heights, making it irresistible!
What to Serve with Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry?
This dish is a delightful centerpiece, making it easy to create a fulfilling meal that everyone will love.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Perfect for soaking up those savory stir fry juices, this rice provides a soft, tender base for your meal.
- Soy Sauce Noodles: Quick and tasty, these noodles offer a delightful contrast of textures and a flavor-packed complement to the stir fry.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green, crisp, and loaded with vitamins, this veggie is a nutritious addition that balances the meal nicely.
- Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these beans bring an irresistible crunch and a light nuttiness that enhances the overall dish.
- Fresh Spring Rolls: Light and refreshing, filled with crisp vegetables, these rolls make for a perfect starter or side that keeps things vibrant.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing bite, providing a cool contrast to the warm stir fry.
- Peach Iced Tea: A fruity beverage that hydrates and complements the flavors beautifully, making dinner feel more special.
- Mango Sorbet: End the meal on a sweet note with this light, refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate perfectly.
Let your creativity blossom as you pair these delightful accompaniments with your Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry!
Quick & Easy Chicken Thigh Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken thighs should I use?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness, but you can also use skinless or bone-in thighs. Just remember that cooking times may vary; for bone-in, add about 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the dish fresh while allowing the flavors to meld and develop. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Can I freeze this stir fry? What’s the best way?
Yes! You can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Make sure the stir fry is completely cooled before freezing to maintain its taste and texture. For added convenience, consider portioning it into individual servings, making it easy to grab a quick meal on busy nights. To reheat, simply place it in a pan over medium heat and stir until warmed through.
What can I do if my vegetables are overcooked?
Very! If you find that your vegetables are overcooked and mushy, try adjusting your cooking time next time. Sauté the vegetables just until they are tender but still bright in color, typically around 5 minutes. A quick stir-fry over high heat helps retain their crunch. If you’re in a pinch, adding a splash of cold water during the last minute can help regain some crispness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, if you have a soy allergy, consider using coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute. For vegetarians or vegans, you can swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for an equally delicious option. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they’re suitable for your dietary needs.
How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?
To ensure your chicken thighs are safely cooked, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, cut into a piece of chicken—it should be opaque and the juices should run clear, not pink. Keeping an eye on the cooking time, around 5 minutes for the strips, usually does the trick!
Easy Quick Chicken Thigh Stir Fry for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with soy sauce, dark soy sauce, minced garlic, cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons of rice wine. Allow to marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Toss in the marinated chicken strips and cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- In the same pan, add an additional 2 tablespoons of oil. Toss in the sliced onions and shredded carrots. Sauté for around 5 minutes until softened.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the chopped spring onions. Stir fry over high heat for an additional 20-30 seconds and finish with a splash of rice wine.