Simple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe: A Quick Meal for Busy Nights

Chicken stir-fry is a popular choice among busy home cooks who want to prepare delicious and nutritious meals in minimal time. This versatile dish can be served with rice or noodles, making it both satisfying and easy-to-make.

The key ingredients of this chicken stir-fry are simple and commonly found in most homes: chicken thighs, vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, and a homemade sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. The cooking time is about 20 minutes and serves four people.

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 1 large bell pepper (any color), sliced into strips
• 1 medium-sized head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 3 carrots, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt to taste
• Oil for stir-frying

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce and sesame oil; add the chicken pieces, and let them marinate for 15-30 minutes.

2. Heat up about two tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying until they become fragrant (about one minute).

3. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot pan; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. In another bowl, combine the bell peppers, broccoli florets, and carrots. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set aside.

5. Return the vegetables to the wok or skillet; stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crunchy.

6. Toss the stir-fried chicken back into the pan with the vegetables. Pour in any remaining marinade and let everything simmer together for another two minutes. Taste, and add salt if needed.

Health Benefits of Chicken Stir-Fry

The combination of lean protein (chicken) and colorful vegetables packed into this stir-fry makes it a wholesome meal. Chicken provides essential amino acids crucial for muscle repair and growth while being low in fat. The vegetables contribute dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, which support immune function, skin health, and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.

Cooking Tips

• Use a wok: A wok is ideal for stir-frying because it distributes heat evenly and allows food to move around easily. If you don’t have one, use a large skillet instead.
• Fresh versus frozen vegetables: Fresh veggies tend to retain more nutrients but ensure that they are sliced thinly so they cook quickly. Frozen can also be used; just thaw them before adding to the pan.
• Prepare ingredients beforehand: Minced garlic, grated ginger, and even chopped chicken should all be ready before you start stir-frying. This prevents hurried cooking which leads to overcooking or undercooking parts of your dish.

Variations

This basic recipe can easily be customized according to personal taste preferences or dietary needs:

• Add more protein: If you're looking for a heartier meal, consider adding sliced beef or shrimp along with the chicken.
• Serve with different grains: Instead of rice, serve this stir-fry over quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. Or try with soba noodles for a different texture.
• Change up the vegetables: Swap out bell peppers for other favorites such as zucchini, bok choy, or snap peas to give your dish a new flavor profile every time you make it.

Dinner Ideas

This stir-fry can be paired with various sides and desserts. Serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice for an authentic Thai feel or enjoy it with a side salad dressed simply with lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. For dessert, pair your meal with fresh fruit such as mangoes, pineapples, or berries.

The versatility of chicken stir-fry allows you to mix and match elements based on what ingredients you have readily available in your pantry. Whether you're looking for something quick during a busy weeknight or want to impress guests with a delightful yet simple dish, this recipe offers the perfect balance between simplicity and satisfaction.