When it comes to quick, nutritious, and flavorful meals, chicken stir-fry bowls top the list. This Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies, Rice, and Sesame Seeds is the perfect example of how to balance lean protein, wholesome vegetables, and comforting rice in one colorful dish. It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

This recipe combines juicy chicken strips with crisp vegetables and a rich, savory-sweet sauce, all served over fluffy white rice. The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch that elevates the dish to restaurant quality. Below, we’ll go step by step through ingredients, preparation, variations, and pro tips to ensure your stir-fry turns out perfect every time.

---

Why This Dish Works

• Fast and simple: With a total cooking time of about 25 minutes, this recipe is both convenient and satisfying.

• Nutritious balance: Each bowl delivers lean protein from chicken, fiber and antioxidants from vegetables, and slow-digesting carbs from rice.

• Customizable: You can easily swap vegetables, change up sauces, or adjust the spice level depending on your taste.

• Crowd-pleaser: Its savory flavor and appealing presentation make it a hit for family dinners or casual entertaining.

---

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional but recommended)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup broccoli florets

• 1/4 cup sweet corn kernels

• 1 green onion, chopped for garnish

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, lightly toasted

For the Rice

• 1 cup white rice (jasmine or long-grain works best)

• 2 cups water

• Pinch of salt

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside while you cook the stir-fry.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Season with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well-coated and infused with flavor.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the chicken is almost cooked, add the red bell pepper, broccoli, and corn to the pan. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. The key here is to avoid overcooking; you want the vegetables to retain their vibrant color and a slight crunch for texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Spoon a generous portion of rice into serving bowls. Top with the chicken and vegetable stir-fry mixture. Garnish with chopped green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and presentation.

---

Tips and Add-Ons

• Low-carb alternative: Replace white rice with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini for a lighter version.

• Flavor boosters: Add a splash of lime juice or rice wine at the end for brightness.

• Extra vegetables: Mushrooms, snap peas, zucchini, or carrots are all excellent additions.

• Spicy twist: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh sliced chili peppers for heat.

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan.

---

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~500 kcal

• Protein: ~40 g

• Carbohydrates: ~50 g

• Fat: ~15 g

• Fiber: ~4 g

This makes the recipe an excellent choice for athletes, health-conscious eaters, or anyone looking for a balanced dinner that won’t weigh them down.

---

Why Stir-Fry is a Smart Choice for Healthy Eating

Stir-fry is a cooking method that locks in both flavor and nutrition. Because vegetables are cooked quickly at high heat, they retain more vitamins and minerals compared to longer cooking methods. Lean proteins like chicken breast remain tender and juicy, while sauces made with soy, vinegar, and aromatics create depth without relying on heavy cream or butter.

This technique allows for endless variations, meaning you can make stir-fry multiple times a week without it ever feeling repetitive. By rotating vegetables and sauces, you can enjoy a fresh twist each time.

---

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Meal prep friendly: You can cook the rice and chop the vegetables in advance to save time on busy days.

• Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Store the rice and stir-fry separately for best results.

• Reheating: Warm the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

---

Creative Variations

• Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Replace hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter glaze.

• Thai-Inspired Bowl: Add fish sauce, lime, and a pinch of sugar to give the dish a Thai flavor profile.

• Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a nutty twist.

• Brown Rice Upgrade: Use brown rice or quinoa for more fiber and a nuttier taste.

---

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Stir-Fry with Veggies, Rice, and Sesame Seeds is a simple yet satisfying dish that checks all the boxes—nutritious, quick, customizable, and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe delivers a complete meal in one bowl with minimal effort.

Once you try it, you’ll see why stir-fry remains one of the most versatile and dependable meals in any home cook’s repertoire. With endless variations and a base that can be tailored to almost any diet, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.