Perfectly Balanced Chicken Stir-Fry: A Quick & Healthy Meal

Chicken stir-fry is a popular dish that has been cherished for its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you're looking to whip up something delicious in your kitchen or want an easy meal to take on the go, this recipe offers a balance of flavors and nutrients that make it a go-to choice.

This particular recipe yields 4 servings in about 30 minutes of cooking time. The chicken stir-fry is a great option for those seeking to have a quick yet nourishing dinner without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli florets, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooking spray or a small amount of butter to grease the pan

Instructions

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and set aside. Wash, trim, and cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Ensure that all ingredients are prepped before you start cooking to save time during the process.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Lightly grease the pan with cooking spray or add a small amount of butter for extra flavor and texture. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the skillet once it's heated through, swirling it around to coat evenly.

Once the pan is well-heated, add the chicken strips in one layer without overcrowding. Cook until the outside turns golden brown on each side but still retains some pinkness inside; this should take about 5-7 minutes. Use tongs to gently flip the pieces as they cook. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil or sesame oil to the skillet if needed. Sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned; this should take just about 1 minute. Immediately add your mixed vegetables into the pan. Stir-fry until they are slightly softened yet still crisp, which usually takes around 5 minutes.

Return the chicken strips back to the skillet with the vegetables. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce while stirring gently to combine flavors well. Let the mixture simmer for another minute or two to allow all elements to meld together perfectly before removing from heat.

To finish, drizzle sesame oil over the top for a touch of richness and garnish with additional red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Rocks

The chicken stir-fry offers several benefits beyond just being quick and tasty. It provides a good balance between protein, vegetables, and healthy fats from the oil used in cooking. Using lean cuts of chicken like breast ensures you get a high-quality source of protein while keeping fat content lower compared to other cuts such as thighs.

Varying the type of vegetables you use allows for customization based on personal preference or what is seasonally available. Adding some heat through red pepper flakes adds variety without making it too spicy; adjust according to taste.

Final Thoughts

A well-prepared chicken stir-fry can become a staple in any household due to its adaptability and nutritional value. Whether you're preparing this for yourself or sharing with family members, it’s sure to be enjoyed by all who partake! With minimal effort required and packed full of wholesome ingredients, this recipe is not only delightful but also beneficial.

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p>Enjoy your perfectly balanced chicken stir-fry!