Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

This easy Chicken Stir Fry recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and a delightful sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil! Perfect for busy weeknights or as a healthy option for family gatherings, this dish takes only 20 minutes to prepare. Its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean chicken, this stir fry offers a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Customize the ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences for endless variations.
• Delicious Sauce: The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a sweet and savory glaze that elevates the entire dish.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This recipe is sure to please picky eaters with its colorful presentation and tasty flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Chicken Stir Fry, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken and vegetables evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and precise cutting of vegetables and chicken, making prep work faster.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your stir fry.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without damaging your cookware, ensuring all ingredients are mixed well.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

For the Vegetables

• 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)

For the Sauce

• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 2 garlic cloves (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

How to Make Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken cubes with salt and pepper. In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add broccoli florets, yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, and sliced baby carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix corn starch with cold water until smooth. Add low sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, minced ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes to this mixture. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the vegetable mixture in the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over everything in the wok. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and serve your delicious Chicken Stir Fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles if desired. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Serving your Chicken Stir Fry can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this flavorful dish that are sure to impress your family and friends.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice complements the stir fry perfectly, absorbing the delicious sauce.

Over Quinoa

• For a nutritious twist, serve the stir fry over quinoa, which adds a nutty flavor and extra protein.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a fresh and crunchy alternative that is low in carbs.

With Noodles

• Toss your stir fry with cooked noodles for a filling meal. Rice noodles or soba noodles work wonderfully.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Create a grain bowl by layering chicken stir fry over a base of grains like farro or barley, topped with avocado slices.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad adds freshness. Try mixed greens with sesame dressing for an Asian-inspired touch.

How to Perfect Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Perfecting your Chicken Stir Fry involves some simple techniques. Here are tips to ensure you create a delicious meal every time.

• Choose Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant colors and nutrients to your dish.
• Cut Ingredients Uniformly: Cutting chicken and vegetables into similar sizes ensures even cooking, which helps maintain texture and taste.
• Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan is key. It helps sear the chicken quickly, locking in juices while keeping it tender.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches if necessary allows for better heat distribution, ensuring everything cooks evenly without steaming.
• Adjust Sauce to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients according to your preference—add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve your stir fry right after cooking while it’s still hot and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Stir Fry can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch while providing additional nutrients.
2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice made with vegetables and egg can be a hearty addition that ties the meal together.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting contrast to the stir fry’s flavors.
4. Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a refreshing balance against the savory stir fry.
5. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies make for an excellent appetizer or side dish.
6. Asian Slaw: A tangy Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing introduces crunch and zest.
7. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy zucchini noodles are an excellent low-carb side that pairs well with any stir fry.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can complement the meal wonderfully, adding warmth and depth of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Chicken Stir Fry, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the Wrong Chicken Cuts: Always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Other cuts may not cook evenly or could result in a tough texture.
• Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too much chicken or veggies at once, they will steam instead of stir-fry. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect sear.
• Neglecting to Prep Ingredients: Failing to chop all ingredients before starting can lead to uneven cooking. Prepare everything beforehand for a smooth cooking process.
• Skipping the Marinade: A quick marinade can enhance flavor significantly. Even just 15 minutes in soy sauce and ginger makes a difference.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Taste your sauce before adding it to the stir fry. Adjust salt, sweetness, or spice levels according to your preference.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Different vegetables have varying cooking times. Add them in stages based on how long they take to cook for even doneness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Stir Fry in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Make sure it has cooled down before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

• Place cooled Chicken Stir Fry in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stir fry in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer stir fry to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and stir until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cut chicken for stir fry?

Cutting chicken into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. Aim for 1-inch cubes for optimal results.

Can I use other vegetables in my Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini based on what you have on hand.

How can I make this Chicken Stir Fry recipe spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick!

What can I serve with Chicken Stir Fry?

This dish pairs well with rice or noodles, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Conclusion

This easy Chicken Stir Fry recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce ingredients according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; your family will love it!

---