Why Make This Recipe
Quick Chicken Stir Fry is a fantastic dish for anyone seeking a fast, healthy, and delicious meal. It combines tender chicken with colorful vegetables, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Plus, the recipe is easily adjustable for different tastes and dietary needs.
How to Make Quick Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, before serving.
How to Serve Quick Chicken Stir Fry
Serve your Quick Chicken Stir Fry over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal. You can also serve it in bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings, such as extra green onions or a drizzle of soy sauce. This dish is also great on its own as a light lunch or dinner option.
How to Store Quick Chicken Stir Fry
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Quick Chicken Stir Fry will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Quick Chicken Stir Fry
- Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Use a wok if you have one; it allows for better heat distribution.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as snow peas, snap peas, or zucchini.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Variations
You can easily customize this recipe by changing up the protein. Try using shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken. Different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin can also add variety to the flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or even the night before for extra flavor.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free because of the soy sauce. However, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.
3. Can I freeze Quick Chicken Stir Fry?
Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers. It’s best to consume it within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
