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How to Make a Delicious Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Chicken and vegetable stir-fry is one of the most popular dishes in many households due to its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious taste. This dish can be customized according to your preferences with various vegetables and spices. Whether you are looking for a quick meal or something to feed a crowd at dinner parties, this recipe is sure to please everyone's palate.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or cooking spray (optional)
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, peeled and julienned
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of water chestnuts (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (optional for garnishing)
Steps:
- Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips. Mix them with soy sauce and cornstarch; let it sit in a bowl for at least 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil or spray cooking spray if needed, in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the chicken strips and stir-fry until they are no longer pink inside (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Return the pan to high heat; add garlic, bell pepper, carrot, broccoli florets, and water chestnuts if using. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until all the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add the stir-fried chicken back into the pan with a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons) to prevent sticking. Cover and let it cook over medium heat for another few minutes until everything is heated through, stirring occasionally.
- Season to taste by adding salt, pepper, and soy sauce if desired. Garnish with sesame oil before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (preparation time: 15 minutes; cooking time: 10 minutes)
Servings: This recipe makes enough for 4 people as a main course or side dish.
The key to making the best chicken and vegetable stir-fry is in proper preparation of each component. Start by marinating the chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch; this helps tenderize the meat and gives it an extra flavor boost. The vegetables should be cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Garlic adds a rich depth of flavor, while water chestnuts provide a subtle crunch that enhances the texture.
This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys simple yet flavorful meals. It requires minimal ingredients but packs big flavors. You can vary it according to your preference by adding different vegetables like snap peas or mushrooms or substituting chicken with tofu if you are vegan. If you want more heat, add some chili flakes; alternatively, go easy on the salt and increase the soy sauce for a richer taste.
Chicken and vegetable stir-fry is not only tasty but also very healthy as it includes plenty of vegetables packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in protein from chicken breast while being low in calories and fat. The dish can be served hot, cold, or even at room temperature, making it convenient to prepare ahead for lunch boxes or leftovers.
To enhance the presentation and flavor, garnish this stir-fry with sesame seeds or green onions after cooking. This simple addition not only looks appealing but also adds a nice burst of flavor. If you're looking for a nutritious yet delicious meal, chicken and vegetable stir-fry is an excellent choice that will satisfy your taste buds without compromising on health.
This versatile dish can be served alongside various side dishes such as steamed rice or noodles, offering endless possibilities in creating different combinations according to your preference. With its rich flavors and multiple variations, this recipe guarantees satisfaction at every bite!