This vibrant stir fry features tender chicken breast quickly cooked with crunchy bell peppers, broccoli, sugar snap peas, and zucchini. Aromatics like garlic and ginger enhance the savory sauce made with soy, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Ready in 30 minutes, this dish offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that suit low-carb and gluten-free preferences while delivering a wholesome, delicious meal.
I remember the first time I made this crisp air low carb stir fry—I was craving something quick but satisfying after a long day, and this vibrant mix of crunchy vegetables and tender chicken totally hit the spot.
I still smile thinking about the time unexpected guests showed up and this stir fry was ready in under 30 minutes—everyone asked for seconds and the recipe has stuck ever since.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breast: I prefer thin slices so they cook evenly and stay tender
- Red and yellow bell peppers: I love the sweet crunch they add, plus they brighten the dish
- Broccoli florets: Cutting them small helps them cook just until crisp-tender without getting mushy
- Sugar snap peas: I trim the ends and they add a fresh snap that balances the sauce
- Zucchini: Sliced thinly, it soaks up flavor perfectly without overwhelming the texture
- Green onions: Added last for a fresh pop and pretty garnish
- Garlic and fresh ginger: Minced and grated to infuse that classic stir fry aroma
- Soy sauce (or tamari): Gives depth and umami—tamari if gluten-free
- Sesame oil: A little goes a long way for that nutty finish
- Rice vinegar: Balances the sauce with a gentle tang
- Erythritol: Adds just a touch of sweetness to round flavors
- Chili flakes (optional): For whenever I want a subtle kick
- Avocado oil: I choose this or a light olive oil for high heat cooking without overpowering
Instructions
- The Part Where Magic Happens:
- Start by whisking together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sweetener, and chili flakes—the sauce should smell bright and inviting. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok over medium-high heat, then add the thinly sliced chicken, stir-frying until it’s just cooked through and tender with a slight golden edge. Remove and set aside while you work the veggies. Add the remaining oil, then stir-fry garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic—your kitchen will smell like a cozy Asian bistro. Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, and sugar snap peas, stirring quickly so they stay crisp and vibrant, cooking for around 3–4 minutes. Add zucchini slices for another 2 minutes to soak up the heat without losing their bite. Return chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss everything well so it all glistens with flavor before cooking an additional 1–2 minutes to marry tastes. Finish by removing from heat and scattering sliced green onions on top—you’ll love how the colors and scents uplift the plate just before serving.
This dish quickly became more than just food—it’s a comfort after hectic days and a joyful centerpiece when friends gather, turning any evening into a celebration of simple, fresh flavors.
Keeping It Fresh
Make sure to prep all the vegetables ahead of time so when the pan heats up you can work quickly. The bright colors and fresh crunch really make the dish pop and feel alive, so I always slice veggies just before cooking.
When You're Missing Something
If you don’t have a particular vegetable on hand, swap it out with something crunchy like snap peas or carrots. The sauce is forgiving and adapts nicely, so don’t stress replacements—they’ll still taste fantastic.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
I like serving this stir fry on its own for a low-carb meal, or with cauliflower rice when I want some extra texture. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime can lift the flavors even more.
- Remember to serve it hot so everything stays crisp and vibrant
- Save some sauce to drizzle on the side for those who like extra flavor
- Leftover stir fry tastes great reheated quickly on the stove or in a microwave
Thanks for cooking along—I hope this stir fry brings a little joy and ease to your kitchen like it has to mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are used in the stir fry?
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Red and yellow bell peppers, broccoli florets, sugar snap peas, zucchini, and green onions are combined for a colorful, crisp texture.
- → How is the sauce prepared?
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The sauce is made by whisking soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free), sesame oil, rice vinegar, a low-carb sweetener, and optional chili flakes for a balanced savory taste.
- → Can chicken be substituted in this stir fry?
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Yes, firm tofu can be used instead of chicken to create a vegetarian version while maintaining protein content.
- → What oils are recommended for cooking?
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Avocado oil or light olive oil is suggested to stir-fry ingredients for a mild flavor and healthy fats.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
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Using tamari in place of regular soy sauce keeps the dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.