Easy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe: A Quick Dinner Solution

Chicken stir-fry is a favorite among those who want to enjoy delicious, healthy meals in less than half an hour. It's versatile and can be customized with various vegetables and sauces according to your taste preferences. This article will guide you through creating a simple yet tasty chicken stir-fry that serves two people in about 20 minutes of active cooking.

Chicken stir-fry is not only quick but also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. You can experiment by adding different ingredients like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your meal. This recipe will provide you with a hearty dinner that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced thinly
• 1 carrot, peeled and julienned
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Peanuts or sesame seeds for garnish

To start, you'll need a few basic cooking supplies: a wok or large skillet, tongs or chopsticks, and a cutting board. Make sure your chicken breasts are cut into thin strips. Prepare the other ingredients while the chicken is marinating.

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil (if using). Set aside for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Heat up your wok or skillet over high heat until it is very hot. Add a small amount of vegetable oil and swirl around to coat the surface evenly.
3. Add minced garlic into the pan and stir-fry until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
4. Remove chicken from its marinade (reserving any excess marinade), and add it to the wok. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes or until thoroughly cooked through. You want the chicken to be golden on all sides.
5. Add in your sliced red bell peppers, julienned carrots, and stir-fry until they are just tender-crisp, about 2-3 more minutes.
6. Return any reserved marinade into the pan along with a teaspoon of salt. Stir well to combine everything together.
7. Serve immediately garnished with peanuts or sesame seeds for extra crunch if desired.

The entire cooking process should take approximately 20-25 minutes from start to finish, making this an ideal weeknight dinner option. The dish is served hot and can be enjoyed alongside steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a filling meal.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
• Protein: About 25 grams per serving
• Fat: Saturated fats are minimal in this dish, contributing only about 4 grams total fat.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables add plenty of vitamin C, A, B6, K, and manganese. Additionally, the chicken provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair after exercise.

Tips for Success

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