Quick & Easy Chicken Stir-Fry: A Flavorful Meal in Minutes

Chicken stir-fry is a popular meal that has captured the hearts of many due to its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or want to impress friends over casual dinners, this dish offers a delicious way to enjoy flavors from the East. It's packed with protein, vegetables, and spices that make every bite exciting.

Chicken stir-fry can be customized based on your preferences. You could add some rice, noodles, or even tofu for added texture and nutrition. The key is to cook it over high heat in a wok or large skillet using minimal oil to retain the juices and flavors of the ingredients.

Cooking Time: 30 Minutes

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
4 scallions, chopped
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 cup broccoli florets
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or peanut oil for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Mix chicken slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, minced garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.
Heat oil (or peanut oil) in your wok or skillet over high heat until it's hot enough to sizzle when you drop a small amount of water into it.
Add chicken strips and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until they are cooked through and no longer pink. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Next, add the vegetables—starting with broccoli first—to the same wok or skillet. Stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to get tender-crisp but are still bright green in color. Add red and yellow bell peppers along with scallions.
Return chicken strips back into the pan, mixing gently but thoroughly so all ingredients blend well together. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Let it cook for another 2 minutes before turning off the heat source. The dish should be ready within half an hour.

Tips for a Better Experience

Choose fresh ingredients whenever possible; they contribute significantly to the overall flavor of your stir-fry. Fresh vegetables have more vibrant colors and provide a better texture compared to frozen ones.
Pan-frying chicken before adding it into the wok helps lock in its moisture, making each bite juicy and delicious.
For optimal results, make sure your wok or skillet is very hot when you start cooking. This ensures quick browning which leads to a crispier texture for your vegetables.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

This recipe provides approximately 185 calories per serving with significant amounts of protein and various vitamins and minerals. Protein contributes to muscle repair, while key nutrients like vitamin C in the peppers support immune function.

How To Store Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, they will last up to three days stored properly in an airtight container in your refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing them; however, note that some ingredients like fresh vegetables may lose their crispness after thawing.

Conclusion

The quick & easy chicken stir-fry is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. With just a few steps and basic ingredients, you can create a meal that will delight your senses and leave everyone asking for seconds! Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful taste of Eastern cuisine right in your kitchen!

If you're looking to vary things up, feel free to experiment with different proteins such as tofu or shrimp, or explore additional herbs and spices according to your taste. Happy cooking!