Name: Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 inch cubes); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); 2 tbsp olive oil (divided); 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 yellow bell pepper (cut into 1 inch pieces); 1/2 red bell pepper (cut into 1 inch pieces); 1/2 cup baby carrots (sliced); 2 tsp minced ginger; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp corn starch; 2 tbsp cold water; 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth; 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Introduction to Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Are you ready for a quick yet satisfying meal that will impress your family? Look no further than this easy chicken stir fry recipe! A homemade chicken stir fry not only saves you money, but it also lets you customize flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Plus, cooking at home means you can control the quality of your ingredients, making it a healthier option compared to takeout.

Why Choose a Homemade Chicken Stir Fry?

Making your chicken stir fry from scratch offers so many benefits. First and foremost, you can load it with vibrant, fresh veggies that provide essential nutrients. With just a few simple ingredients — like honey, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil — you can whip up a delicious sauce that brings everything together. According to Healthline, incorporating more vegetables can reduce the risk of chronic diseases while enhancing your overall well-being.

Furthermore, this dish is incredibly quick to prepare, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Imagine after a long day at work, being able to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen! Plus, you get to enjoy the delightful aroma of sautéed ginger and garlic wafting through your home. Next up, let’s dive into the details of the easy chicken stir fry recipe that will soon become a family favorite!

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Essential ingredients for a tasty stir fry

To whip up a delicious easy chicken stir fry recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a burst of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
2 cups broccoli florets for that perfect crunch
½ yellow bell pepper and ½ red bell pepper, both cut into 1-inch pieces for a colorful twist
½ cup baby carrots, sliced for sweetness
2 teaspoon minced ginger to bring warmth
2 garlic cloves, minced for aromatic depth

This combination not only ensures a tasty experience but also packs in plenty of nutrients!

Optional ingredients to customize your dish

Feel free to make this stir fry your own! Here are some optional ingredients you might want to consider:

Snow peas or bell pepper varieties for more color
A sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of crunch
Green onions, sliced for a fresh garnish
Spicy elements like red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat
A splash of lime juice for zesty brightness

These additions allow you to tailor your easy chicken stir fry recipe to your taste, so don't hesitate to get creative in the kitchen!

Preparing Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with this easy chicken stir fry recipe, you'll find that preparing a fresh, flavorful dinner is easier than you think! Let’s walk through each step to make the process seamless and enjoyable.

Gather Your Ingredients

To kick things off, you'll want to have all your ingredients within arm's reach. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
2 cups broccoli florets
½ yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ cup baby carrots, sliced
2 teaspoon minced ginger
2 garlic cloves, minced

For the stir fry sauce, gather the following:

1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoon cold water
¼ cup low sodium chicken broth
3 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
¼ cup honey
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Pro tip: Having everything prepped and ready will save you time and keep things organized!

Prepare the Chicken

Next, it’s time to work on that chicken. Start by seasoning the chicken cubes with salt and pepper. This simple step can enhance the overall flavor of your dish. As you cut your chicken, try to keep the pieces uniformly sized for even cooking!

Make the Stir Fry Sauce

Now, let’s whip up the stir fry sauce! In a medium bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth. Then add in the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and set it aside. This sauce is the magic that brings everything together!

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken (you may need to do this in batches) and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until cooked through. Once it’s golden and tender, remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

With the chicken out of the pan, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, and sauté them until they are crisp-tender. The vibrant colors will make your kitchen feel alive! Add in the minced ginger and garlic, cooking for an additional minute for that fragrant aroma.

Combine Everything Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour in the stir fry sauce. Stir everything gently to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken as it simmers for about a minute. This is where the magic happens!

Serve with Your Choice of Rice or Noodles

Finally, it’s time to plate your delicious creation! This easy chicken stir fry pairs wonderfully with your choice of rice or noodles. Whether you prefer fluffy jasmine rice or some classic chow mein, you can’t go wrong. Enjoy your meal, and watch your loved ones devour every last bite!

By following these simple steps, you'll have a delightful dish that truly celebrates the harmony of flavors and textures. Happy cooking!

Variations on Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Vegetarian Option for a Meatless Stir Fry

If you're looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal without chicken, try a vegetarian variation! Substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. For an even heartier dish, add ingredients like snap peas, mushrooms, and additional colorful bell peppers. This easy chicken stir fry recipe can easily transform into a vibrant veggie delight that’s just as satisfying!

Seafood Twist with Shrimp or Scallops

Craving a different flavor profile? Adding shrimp or scallops to your stir fry can elevate the dish to new heights. Sauté the seafood until just opaque and tender, then incorporate it into your veggie mix. This seafood twist brings a touch of elegance to the classic easy chicken stir fry recipe, allowing you to impress your friends at dinner parties. For more seafood inspiration, check out Seafood Nutrition.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Best Oils for High-Heat Cooking

When preparing your easy chicken stir fry recipe, choosing the right oil is key. Opt for oils with high smoke points like canola oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil, which withstand high temperatures and enhance flavor without burning. These oils are perfect for achieving that delightful sear you want in a stir fry!

Tips for Cutting Vegetables

Uniformly cutting your veggies not only looks great but also ensures even cooking. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and aim for bite-sized pieces to promote a nice crunch! Here are some pro tips:

Broccoli: Cut the florets from the stalk and chop them into even sizes.
Bell Peppers: Slice around the core and cut into strips or chunks.
Carrots: For baby carrots, simply slice; for larger ones, julienne or cut into rounds.

For more cutting techniques, check out this guide for detailed instructions! Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Perfect pairings for a complete meal

To take your easy chicken stir fry recipe to the next level, consider serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or whole grain rice for a heartier option. Noodles are another delightful companion—try tossing in some chow mein or rice noodles for a satisfying dish. For added crunch and flavor, top with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds. You might even want to whip up a simple cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar to balance the flavors.

Creative ways to serve stir fry leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover stir fry, don’t let it go to waste. Transform it into an exciting lunch by placing it atop a bed of fresh greens for a vibrant salad. Alternatively, mix the stir fry with cooked quinoa for a nutritious wrap filling. You can also use it as a hearty filling for burritos or lettuce wraps, ensuring that your meal packs a flavor punch and looks appetizing!

For more serving ideas, check out these creative lunch recipes that incorporate stir-fried goodness!

Time Breakdown for Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Preparation Time

Get ready for deliciousness! The preparation time for this easy chicken stir fry recipe is just about 8 minutes. This is when you'll be chopping veggies and marinating your chicken, a quick and straightforward process.

Cooking Time

Once you're prepped, cooking is a breeze! The cooking time is only 10 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how fast this dish comes together in a skillet or wok.

Total Time

All in all, you can whip up this tasty meal in just 18 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you crave something healthy and flavorful without the hassle!

For a bit more inspiration and tips, you can check out the American Heart Association or EatingWell for healthy cooking techniques. Now, let’s dive into the full recipe!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

When it comes to healthy meals, this easy chicken stir fry recipe truly shines! Here are the key nutritional highlights to keep in mind:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 343 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option for dinner.

Protein

With 26 grams of protein per serving, this stir fry is a fantastic way to fuel your body, especially after a busy day.

Sodium

To keep things heart-healthy, this recipe provides around 570 milligrams of sodium, thanks to low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth. You can further reduce it by adjusting the sauce to your taste!

This stir fry is not just delicious but also rich in essential nutrients to nourish your body. For more insights on balanced eating, consider visiting the CDC Nutrition page for expert advice. Enjoy this meal guilt-free!

FAQs about Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Can I use frozen vegetables for my stir fry?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can work wonderfully in this easy chicken stir fry recipe. They are often flash-frozen right after harvesting, so they retain most of their nutrients. Just remember to cook them a bit longer than fresh veggies to ensure they heat through properly.

What's a great substitute for honey in the sauce?
If you need an alternative to honey, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar. Both of these options will add sweetness without compromising the flavor of your easy chicken stir fry. You can also try a sugar substitute like stevia if you're looking for a lower-calorie option.

How can I make my stir fry spicier?
For those who enjoy a kick, adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha can elevate your stir fry to the next level. Fresh chili peppers or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper are also excellent choices. Just be sure to start with small amounts and taste as you go, so you don’t overpower your dish with heat!

For more stir fry tips and tricks, check out resources like the American Heart Association for healthy eating guidelines.

Conclusion on Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Homemade stir fry, like this easy chicken stir fry recipe, is a win-win: it's quick, nutritious, and customizable. You control the ingredients, ensuring a healthy meal that showcases vibrant veggies and protein-packed chicken. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this dish, and savor the flavors together!