Whole30 Chicken Stir Fry

To begin, there’s something deeply comforting about a sizzling pan of chicken and vegetables coming together in minutes, filling the kitchen with warm, savory aromas. This dish is loved because it proves that eating clean doesn’t have to feel restrictive or boring. Instead, it delivers bold flavor, vibrant color, and a satisfying texture that feels like real comfort food. Moreover, it’s one of those recipes that fits effortlessly into busy weeknights while still feeling nourishing and intentional. Because everything cooks quickly in one pan, cleanup stays simple and stress-free. Additionally, the balance of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a glossy, savory sauce makes it incredibly crave-worthy. Whether you’re following Whole30 or simply want a wholesome dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste, this recipe feels reliable, cozy, and genuinely enjoyable from the first bite to the last.

Ingredients

This recipe makes 4 servings.

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thin
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium carrot, julienned
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
¼ cup coconut aminos
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken by slicing it evenly into thin strips, ensuring similar thickness so it cooks evenly.
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil and the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a clean plate to prevent overcooking.
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet, then heat briefly until warmed.
Toss in the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds while stirring to release their aroma without burning.
Add the bell peppers, broccoli, carrot, and zucchini to the pan and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it gently with the vegetables.
Pour in the coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, then cook for 2–3 more minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Tips

First, serve this stir fry hot straight from the skillet for the best texture and flavor. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple side of roasted sweet potatoes for a more filling meal. Meanwhile, adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten the dish even more. For casual weeknight dinners, it works well as a one-bowl meal, while for gatherings, it can be served family-style with extra vegetables on the side.

Storage Tips

Afterward, allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, this dish stays fresh for up to four days without losing flavor. However, if you want to freeze it, store it in portioned freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.

Helpful Notes

To begin, slicing the chicken thinly against the grain helps keep it tender and juicy during quick cooking. Additionally, prepping all vegetables before heating the pan ensures a smooth, stress-free cooking process. If you’re short on time, using pre-cut vegetables can significantly speed things up without affecting flavor. However, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause steaming instead of proper stir-frying. As a result, cook in batches if necessary for the best texture. For substitutions, chicken thighs can replace breasts for a slightly richer taste, while extra vegetables like snap peas or mushrooms can be added for variety. Finally, always taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Chef Tips

Meanwhile, using a very hot pan helps achieve a light sear on the chicken, adding depth of flavor without extra ingredients. Additionally, finishing with a small splash of coconut aminos off the heat can enhance the savory notes.