Perfectly Balanced Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

This article provides a delicious recipe for a perfectly balanced chicken stir-fry with vegetables that can serve as an excellent main course or side dish.

The preparation of this dish is straightforward, and you will need about 45 minutes to complete the cooking process. The recipe serves four people generously.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 1 medium onion, chopped finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced into matchsticks
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli florets)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger root, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for stir-frying

Instructions

To get started: Begin by preparing all of your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and set aside.

1. In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger root, salt, and pepper together to create a marinade for the chicken. Add the sliced chicken and toss until evenly coated. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes so that the flavors meld perfectly with the chicken.
2. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the carrots into matchsticks and cut the mixed vegetables (bell peppers and broccoli florets) into small pieces.
3. Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add about two tablespoons of vegetable oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips in batches; avoid overcrowding the pan. Stir-fry until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes for each batch. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside on a plate.
4. Return the wok to high heat and add a few more tablespoons of oil if necessary. Add the onions, garlic, and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry until the vegetables are just tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Add the mixed vegetables (bell peppers and broccoli florets) and continue cooking for another minute or two.
5. Return the chicken strips to the wok with the stir-fried vegetables. Toss everything together, ensuring that all components are well combined before serving.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your dish is not only delicious but also healthy and balanced:

• Use fresh, quality ingredients whenever possible. The taste of the dish heavily depends on these components.
• For a more robust flavor profile, consider adding some chili flakes or red pepper for a little heat.
• If you prefer milder flavors, replace soy sauce with tamari or a light cooking wine.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

The following is the approximate nutritional breakdown based on four servings:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 14 grams
• Saturated Fat: 2 grams
• Cholesterol: 60 milligrams
• Sodium: 780 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Sugars: 12 grams
• Protein: 40 grams

Serving Suggestions

This stir-fry pairs exceptionally well with various side dishes, such as steamed rice or noodles. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

1. Rice: Serve this dish over jasmine rice to add a bit of starch that complements the rich flavors of the stir-fry.
2. Noodles: If you prefer something different, consider serving it with udon or soba noodles. This will add a textural dimension and additional flavor from the noodle itself.

Storage & Leftovers

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on low heat gently without burning it or you may also reheat using a microwave; just ensure that all components are thoroughly heated through.

To enjoy leftovers, simply warm them in a pan and serve with your favorite side dishes as mentioned above. This dish is particularly tasty served cold the next day for a quick lunch or dinner option.

Conclusion

A well-prepared chicken stir-fry with mixed vegetables can be both nutritious and delicious. It’s perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you need something that is easy to make yet still satisfying. With its balance of flavors and the array of vegetables, this dish ensures a wholesome meal.