Simple Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Chicken stir-fry is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed anytime. Its adaptability allows for variations in ingredients, making it suitable for different dietary needs, such as vegetarian or low-carb diets. This simple yet flavorful recipe will guide you through the preparation of a classic chicken stir-fry with a variety of vegetables.

Chicken stir-fry is rich in protein and various essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. It's quick to prepare and can be ready within 30 minutes from start to finish. This dish serves two people, providing a hearty meal that can be enjoyed either as a main course or accompanied by steamed rice.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into thin strips
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

Preparation Steps

To prepare the dish, start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix together the sliced chicken, minced garlic, chopped ginger, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let it sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes so that the flavors meld.

While the chicken is marinating, prepare all the vegetables by cutting them into appropriate sizes as mentioned in the ingredients list. This step ensures that everything will be evenly cooked during the stir-frying process.

Heat up a wok or a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the pan once it becomes hot. Carefully add the marinated chicken strips and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pan using a slotted spoon.

Reduce the heat slightly; add the remaining vegetables one by one into the pan. Start with the carrots followed by broccoli florets and end with red bell pepper strips. Stir-fry for around 3-4 minutes or until all vegetables have turned bright in color but still retain their crunchiness. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the pan along with any remaining marinade. Toss everything together and cook for another minute allowing flavors to combine well among ingredients. At this point, you can garnish the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Tips and Variations

• For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes towards the end of cooking for more heat.
• Veggie Options: You can experiment with different vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or snow peas depending on what you prefer and have available at home.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace soy sauce with tamari if you're following a dairy-free diet. Tamari is wheat-free and contains less sodium compared to regular soy sauce.

This simple chicken stir-fry not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients including protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C from the vegetables used. Pair it with some rice or noodles for a more substantial meal if needed. It's perfect for busy weekdays when you want something quick yet nutritious.

By following these straightforward steps, anyone can create an authentic chicken stir-fry at home without extensive culinary experience required. Experimenting with various combinations of meats and vegetables according to personal preferences is encouraged as it helps cater to diverse tastes and dietary restrictions.