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Healthy · Pakistani · Oct 11, 2026

Swift & Spicy Chicken-Veggie Stir-Fry

Discover a swift, spicy, and healthy Pakistani-inspired Chicken & Vegetable Stir-Fry. Quick to prepare in under 40 minutes, this vibrant dish combines lean chicken and crisp veggies with a fiery kick, perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal.

🍽️
⏲
Prep
10 min
🔥
Cook
25 min
🍴
Servings
3
📊
Difficulty
Easy

Method

  1. 1

    Begin by patting your chicken cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a beautiful sear. Season them generously with a pinch of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper.

  2. 2

    Heat the cooking oil in a large non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, searing for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

  3. 3

    Into the same pan, add the frozen mixed vegetables directly. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing them to release their vibrant colors and begin to soften to a crisp-tender texture.

  4. 4

    Sprinkle in the fiery red chilli powder and a final touch of salt to taste, stirring well to coat the vegetables evenly and infuse them with aromatic warmth.

  5. 5

    Return the seared chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add about a quarter cup of water, bringing it to a gentle simmer. This creates a light, flavorful sauce that binds everything together.

  6. 6

    Cover the pan and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the vegetables to finish cooking to your desired tenderness.

  7. 7

    Uncover, give it a final stir, and check the seasoning. Adjust salt or chilli powder if desired, ensuring every bite bursts with balanced spice.

  8. 8

    Serve this quick and healthy stir-fry immediately, perhaps alongside a simple side of rice if you wish, or enjoy it as a standalone, vibrant meal.

👩‍🍳 Chef's tip

For an extra layer of brightness, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. Ensure your pan is hot when searing the chicken to achieve a beautiful crust, locking in moisture and flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.