This Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry is a delicious and easy Chinese dish! Marinated chicken stir fried with crunchy asparagus - healthy and tasty - what's not to love!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes: quick, easy, healthy, and super tasty! The marinated chicken turns out tender and flavorful, while the asparagus brings a fresh crunch that makes every bite satisfying. It's a one-pan wonder that comes together in under 30 minutes. It's perfect for a busy weeknight meal but delicious enough to make again and again.
About the Ingredients
Chicken thighs - I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for stir fries because they stay juicy and flavorful, even when cooked quickly at high heat. They also have a bit more richness compared to chicken breast, which makes the dish extra satisfying.
Soy sauce - A pantry staple in Chinese cooking, soy sauce brings that savory umami depth. It seasons the chicken while also helping tenderize it during the marinade.
Sesame oil - This adds a nutty, toasty aroma that instantly makes the stir fry feel more authentic. A little goes a long way, but it makes a big flavor impact.
Cornstarch - The secret weapon in Chinese stir fry marinades! Cornstarch lightly coats the chicken, keeping it tender and giving it that silky texture you get at restaurants. It also helps the sauce cling to every bite.
Asparagus - The star veggie here. When stir-fried, asparagus turns crisp-tender and slightly sweet, balancing perfectly with the savory chicken. It's also great because it's super healthy too!
Garlic - Fresh garlic is a must for that bold, aromatic base flavor. It adds a savory punch and has its own health perks, like supporting heart health and immunity.
Sugar - Just a small amount balances out the savory soy sauce and brings the flavors together without making the dish taste sweet.
Salt - Used sparingly at the end to season everything to taste. Since soy sauce is already salty, you don't need much... if any! I usually don't even need it!
Cooking oil - A neutral oil (like canola, avocado, or grapeseed) is best here because it can handle high heat without overpowering the dish.
How to cook Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry (Step by Step)
First, gather your ingredients:
- 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs cut in to 1 inch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut in to 1 inch
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
First, diced your chicken in to cubes. In a zip lock bag or mixing bowl, mix chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil. Combine well and then set it aside to marinade for half hour.
In a cooking pan or wok, add cooking oil, and let it heat up on medium high.
Add garlic and chicken along with all the marinade sauce, and stir fry for about 2 minutes or until chicken is no longer translucent, and immediately remove chicken from heat by placing in a big plate or bowl and set aside (try to keep sauce in pan).
Add a little more cooking oil if your pan is too dry. Then, add asparagus and stir fry for about 5 minutes, or until asparagus start turning bright green.
Return the chicken back in to pan, and add sugar and salt, stir fry everything for about another 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked thoroughly and the asparagus is tender.
Remove from heat and serve!
Storage & Reheat
- Storage - Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat - Best reheated in a skillet or wok over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through (this keeps the chicken juicy and the asparagus crisp). You can also microwave in short bursts, but the asparagus may soften more, which is totally fine if you don't mind!
- Freezing - Not recommended since asparagus can lose its texture after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works fine - just don't overcook it since it dries out quicker.
What other veggies can I use?
Broccoli, snap peas, or green beans are great substitutes if asparagus isn't in season.
Do I need a wok for this recipe?
Nope! A large skillet works just as well, as long as it can handle high heat.
Can I make this spicy?
Definitely! Toss in a few sliced chili peppers or add a drizzle of chili oil at the end. I do this sometimes as well and it also adds some color to the dish!
Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
A quick and easy Chinese stir fry! Juicy marinated chicken is cooked with crunchy asparagus, garlic, and a simple savory sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs cut in to 1 inch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut in to 1 inch
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate chicken – In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix chicken, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Let marinate 30 minutes.
- Cook chicken – Heat oil in a wok/skillet over medium-high. Add garlic, then chicken with marinade. Stir fry 2 minutes until chicken is no longer pink. Remove chicken to a plate (leave sauce in pan).
- Cook asparagus – Add a little more oil if pan is dry. Stir fry asparagus 5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
- Combine – Return chicken to pan. Add sugar and salt. Stir fry 2–3 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and asparagus is tender.
- Remove from heat and serve!
Notes
- For leaner meat, chicken breast can be used instead of thighs.
- Swap in broccoli, snap peas, or green beans if asparagus isn’t available.
- Add chili peppers or chili oil for a spicy kick.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 297Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 138mgSodium: 588mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 3gSugar: 4gProtein: 31g
The nutrition information for this recipe is an approximate total per serving. Please double check the nutrition information for your exact ingredients and brands for more precise nutrition information. Keep in mind that if there is a marinade, often times not all the ingredients will be consumed.
More Delicious Chicken Stir Fry Recipes!
Quick, savory, and packed with protein! These chicken stir fry recipes are easy to make and loaded with flavor.
- Chicken with Green Beans Stir Fry - Marinated tender chicken pieces stir-fried with crisp green beans in a delicious savory sauce.
- Mongolian Chicken - Sliced chicken stir-fried with onions and green onions in a bold, flavorful Mongolian-style sauce.
- Bok Choy Chicken Stir Fry - Bite-sized chicken thigh pieces stir-fried with chopped garlic and fresh bok choy for a simple, nutritious meal.
- Chicken Stir Fry with Korean Peppers - Sliced chicken stir-fried with spicy Cheongyang chili peppers for a fiery, flavor-packed stir fry.
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