Chicken Stir Fry
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dish, chicken stir fry is your answer! Packed with vibrant vegetables and tender chicken, this recipe is not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up a healthy meal that’s perfect for the entire family. With its savory flavors and colorful presentation, this stir fry will surely become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a delightful chicken stir fry:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (1/4 of the recipe), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 28g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 12g
– Fiber: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Begin by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips.
- Prepare the vegetables: slice the bell peppers and onion, and rinse the snap peas.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic; sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add the bell peppers and snap peas, stirring frequently for 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein. You can also use any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli, carrots, or zucchini, making it a versatile dish that minimizes waste.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also enjoy it with a side of spring rolls or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chicken stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming rather than frying.
- Using low-quality soy sauce can affect flavor; opt for a good brand.
- Not prepping ingredients beforehand may result in uneven cooking.
- Skipping the marination step can lead to less flavorful chicken.
- Using too much heat can burn the garlic quickly; add it later in the cooking process.
Helpful Tips
- Slice chicken against the grain for more tenderness.
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or oyster sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for stir fry?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it beforehand to ensure even cooking.
What vegetables work best for stir fry?
Popular choices include bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!
How do I make it spicier?
Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce during cooking to increase the heat level.
What can I serve with chicken stir fry?
Chicken stir fry goes well with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad for a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Chicken stir fry is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With a mix of protein and colorful vegetables, it’s a healthy meal option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to satisfy!
Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast sliced
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breast into thin strips.
- Slice the bell peppers and onion, and rinse the snap peas.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic; sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add the bell peppers and snap peas, stirring frequently for 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot!
