Perfectly Balanced Chicken Stir-Fry: A Delicious Dinner Recipe

Looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that can be ready in less than 30 minutes? Try this chicken stir-fry recipe! It's packed with flavor and is perfect for busy weeknight meals. With just four main ingredients, you'll have a hearty meal on the table quickly.

This recipe focuses on creating balance between flavors and textures to ensure that every bite satisfies your palate. From tender chunks of chicken breast to crisp vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, this stir-fry is both nutritious and satisfying. Let's dive into how you can prepare it at home!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped finely
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 carrots, julienned
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro

Instructions

To start, preheat your wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you don't have a wok, using a large non-stick pan will do just fine. Once the pan is hot, add one tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to shimmer. This step ensures that the chicken won't stick as it cooks.

While waiting for the oil to become ready, take your sliced chicken strips and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Toss them gently until evenly coated. After the oil has reached the right temperature (you'll know when the surface of the pan looks almost dry), add the chicken to the wok or skillet in one layer if possible; otherwise, do this step in batches so as not to overcrowd your cooking space.

Allow the chicken strips to cook undisturbed for about two minutes before stirring gently. The goal here is to get a golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and pink. Continue to stir occasionally until all pieces are fully cooked, approximately 5-7 more minutes depending upon the thickness of your cuts.

Remove the chicken from the heat and set aside in a separate plate. Now it’s time for the vegetables! Add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed but not necessarily required, then add the chopped onion along with minced garlic cloves directly into the wok or skillet. Stir-fry these ingredients until they start turning translucent.

After about one minute, incorporate sliced carrots and bell peppers right into the pan, continuing to stir frequently to prevent burning while you cook them for another couple of minutes. At this point, return the previously cooked chicken back into the mix. Add soy sauce if desired, then let everything simmer together briefly before turning off the heat completely.

Assembly

To serve, plate your chicken stir-fry beautifully on a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or fresh cilantro for extra color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside steamed rice or noodles if preferred!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

• Total Fat: ~18g
• Saturated Fat: < 4g
• Protein: ~60g
• Sodium: ~900mg (if using soy sauce)
• Fiber: ~3g

This recipe serves four people, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Not only does this dish taste great but also provides essential nutrients like protein and vitamins from various vegetables.

Conclusion

A perfectly balanced chicken stir-fry is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're looking for a new weekday dinner option or want something special for company, this recipe delivers both ease of preparation and delicious results every time! Experiment with different sauces, vegetables, or garnishes to make it your very own creation.

Give this dish a try soon; I’m confident you’ll enjoy making and eating it just as much as I do!