Delicious Quick Chicken Stir-Fry

Quick chicken stir-fry is a versatile and delicious dish that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something light yet satisfying to pair with rice, noodles, or salad greens.

This recipe serves four people and takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You will need simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (sesame or vegetable)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, sliced thinly
• 1 red bell pepper, diced small
• 2 carrots, julienned
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 4 tablespoons water (optional thickener)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh green onions or chopped parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, cornstarch, and soy sauce. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Heat up a wok or a wide frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of oil to it.
3. Sauté the garlic and onion for about 2 minutes until they become translucent.
4. Add the chicken pieces into the hot wok, stirring frequently for approximately 5-7 minutes until it is no longer pink inside.
5. Stir in the red pepper, carrots, and soy sauce. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are just tender-crisp.
6. If you prefer your stir-fry to be thicker, mix cornstarch with water and add this mixture into the wok while stirring continuously until the desired consistency is achieved.
7. Lastly, garnish with fresh green onions or chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot alongside steamed rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations:

• If you're short on time but want more flavor, consider adding some sliced mushrooms or snow peas into the mix.
• You could also add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra kick and sweetness.
• For a heartier meal, serve this stir-fry with brown rice instead of white. You can even turn it into an oriental chicken noodle soup by adding some beef broth and vermicelli noodles!

Nutritional Information:

• Per serving (approximately 1/4 of the dish): Calories: ~280 kcal, Protein: ~35g, Fat: ~9g, Carbohydrates: ~12g.

The chicken stir-fry is not only quick to prepare but also provides a nutritious and tasty meal. It's an excellent source of protein which helps in muscle repair and growth; the vegetables add essential vitamins such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, promoting good skin health and immune function.

Health Benefits:

• The high fiber content found in carrots can aid digestive health by supporting bowel movements. Onions are rich in antioxidants which help fight off free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of diseases like cancer. Vitamin A from red bell peppers supports eye health and boosts immunity.

In conclusion, quick chicken stir-fry is more than just a simple dish; it’s a gateway to exploring various flavor profiles while enjoying a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Whether you're looking for something quick to throw together or an exciting way to mix up your regular meals, this versatile recipe has got you covered.

Cooking time: ~25-30 minutes
Number of servings: 4