Lemon-ginger chicken and asparagus stir-fry

Lemon-ginger chicken and asparagus stir-fry features tender chicken and crisp asparagus, infused with the bright flavors of lemon and ginger. This quick and healthy dish uses a soy sauce and garlic mixture for added depth and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

26 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

5 chicken breasts
1 dash salt
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 lb asparagus
6 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ginger root
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 dash black pepper

{'description': "Lemon-ginger chicken and asparagus stir-fry is a delightful, vibrant dish that's perfect for a quick yet healthy dinner. Combining tender chicken breast with crisp asparagus, this recipe is infused with the fresh flavors of lemon and ginger. It's further complemented by a savory soy sauce and garlic mixture, making it a delicious and nutritious option for any meal."}

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Trim the asparagus and cut it into 2-inch pieces.
- Mince the garlic cloves and ginger root.
- Measure out all the ingredients.

2. Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the chicken broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, season lightly with salt and black pepper, and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger root. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the asparagus.
- Stir the sauce mixture one more time (to make sure the cornstarch hasn’t settled at the bottom), then pour it into the skillet.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is evenly coated.

6. Add Lemon Juice:
- Add the lemon juice to the skillet and toss to combine.

7. Final Touch:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with an additional dash of salt and pepper if needed.

8. Serve:
- Serve the Lemon-Ginger Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry hot over rice or noodles, if desired.

{'description': 'This lemon-ginger chicken and asparagus stir-fry combines the refreshing flavors of citrus and ginger with succulent chicken and tender asparagus. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s an excellent dish for busy weeknights or for impressing guests. Enjoy this flavor-packed meal that’s as good for you as it is delicious!'}

Lemon-ginger chicken and asparagus stir-fry FAQ:

How long do I cook the chicken for in the stir-fry?

Cook the sliced chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes over medium-high heat until they are fully cooked and lightly browned.

Can I substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen asparagus. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen vegetables may need a little longer to heat through.

How do I know when the asparagus is cooked properly?

The asparagus should be tender-crisp, bright green in color, and should take about 3-4 minutes of stir-frying. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Tips:

- For the best texture, thinly slice the chicken breasts and cook them in batches to ensure they sear properly and don't steam.

- Blanch the asparagus briefly before stir-frying to keep them bright green and tender-crisp.

- Mix the cornstarch with water thoroughly before adding it to the stir-fry to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.

- Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to increase the nutritional value and add more color to the dish.

- For an extra burst of flavor, garnish the finished dish with fresh cilantro or green onions.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 890kcal
Protein 150g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 11g
Sugar 10g
Fat 30g

Lemon-ginger chicken and asparagus stir-fry