Chicken Stir-Fry: A Quick and Delicious Dinner Recipe

Chicken stir-fry is a popular meal that can be prepared quickly and enjoyed by the entire family. This dish is versatile and can be customized with various ingredients, making it perfect for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. In this article, we will provide you with an easy recipe for chicken stir-fry along with its cooking time and number of servings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, sliced thinly on the diagonal
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free version)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (for the slurry)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or vegetable oil for cooking

Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes. Servings: 4-6 people.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetables: While you can use fresh or frozen vegetables, make sure to blanch them if they are raw. Boil the broccoli and carrots in a pot of salted water for about 3 minutes until just tender-crisp. Drain thoroughly once done.
2. Marinate the chicken: Combine the slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) along with soy sauce, sesame oil, and seasonings like salt and pepper into a bowl. Add the chopped chicken pieces and mix well so that each piece is coated evenly in the marinade. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Heat up your wok: If you don't have a wok (which is optimal for stir-frying as it distributes heat evenly), use a large skillet or sauté pan. Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
4. Sauté the chicken: Place the marinated chicken into the heated wok or pan in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink inside.
5. Add the vegetables: Once the chicken has been cooked through, remove it from the wok or pan using a slotted spoon and set aside. Add more oil to the pan if needed, then toss in the garlic and ginger for about 15 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
6. Mix everything together: Return the chicken back into the wok along with the blanched vegetables. Stir-fry all components together for another couple of minutes or so until they are hot through, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
7. Serve immediately: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired before serving your delicious Chicken Stir-Fry!

Healthy Tips:

• Eat smaller portions of meat to reduce calorie intake while increasing the vegetable content in every plate.
• Add some whole grains like brown rice or quinoa on the side for a more balanced meal.
• If you're concerned about sodium, consider reducing soy sauce and adding extra fresh herbs instead for flavor.

Chicken stir-fry not only provides convenience due to its short preparation time but also offers flexibility in terms of ingredient selection. Whether you are looking for something light yet satisfying or a heartier meal, this dish can be tailored according to your dietary needs and preferences. Additionally, it's a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen since there isn't much chopping required.

To elevate this basic recipe further, consider adding other protein sources such as shrimp, tofu, or chicken thighs for added flavor and texture. For an extra kick, you could incorporate various spices like chili flakes, five-spice powder, or curry paste depending on your taste buds' sensitivity towards heat. Always remember to adjust the ingredients based on personal preference but always maintain balance by not overloading one part of nutrition (e.g., protein) at the expense of others.

In conclusion, whether you're a novice cook trying out new recipes for the first time or an experienced chef seeking simple yet tasty dishes, chicken stir-fry remains a favorite among many households worldwide. Its adaptability and ease make it suitable for various occasions ranging from everyday dinners to special events like family gatherings or even casual nights in. So why not try making this versatile dish today? Your taste buds will surely appreciate the result!