Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe: A Quick & Nutritious Meal

Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry is a popular dish that combines lean protein with a variety of colorful vegetables to create a vibrant and nutritious meal. It's an excellent option for busy nights when you want something healthy yet satisfying.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Chicken stir-fry is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that support your body's daily functions. It can be customized according to personal taste preferences and dietary needs. This recipe focuses on a healthy approach by using chicken breast as the main protein source, along with plenty of fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

• 400 grams (14 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 large red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water for sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: sliced green onions and sesame seeds

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the chicken strips with soy sauce, sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed in water. Set aside for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
2. Heat up a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot. Add the sesame oil and swirl it around to coat the pan evenly.
3. Add the chicken strips first, cooking them until they turn opaque and are fully cooked through about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan using tongs and set aside on a plate.
4. Reduce the heat slightly and add your vegetables one by one. Start with the red bell pepper which takes longer to cook, followed by carrots. Stir-fry each vegetable separately until it begins to soften before combining them all together. This step usually takes about 5 minutes total depending on how firm you like your veggies.
5. Return the cooked chicken strips back into the pan along with garlic and ginger. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so that no pieces remain separated from each other or raw-looking bits present in the mixture.
6. Finally, add a splash of chicken broth if needed to thin out the consistency of the sauce slightly before letting it simmer for another 2 minutes. Pour in the remaining cornstarch slurry and mix well until thickened nicely according to your preference."

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, consider adding a touch more soy sauce or tamari, though doing so will increase sodium content. You could also incorporate other ingredients like broccoli florets, snap peas, or even some tofu for an additional source of protein.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead and have it ready for quick weeknight meals throughout the week, consider preparing all components up until the last step involving sauce addition. Store these separately in containers inside the refrigerator where they should stay good for about 3 days before being used as desired.

Conclusion

A healthy chicken stir-fry makes an easy yet satisfying meal suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a nutritious dish packed with flavor that supports overall health without sacrificing taste or convenience. Whether enjoyed solo at lunchtime or paired alongside rice as part of dinner service, this versatile option has something to offer everyone.