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Simple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Looking for a quick and easy chicken stir-fry recipe? This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something light but satisfying. Here’s how to make it in under 30 minutes.
This popular keyword, simple chicken stir-fry, has been enjoyed by many home cooks seeking a quick and flavorful meal that can be whipped up with minimal effort. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced chefs alike.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce (or reduced sodium option)
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons of sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced thinly
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into small pieces
- 1 carrot, peeled and julienned
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger, grated for added flavor
Instructions:
Mix together soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and grated ginger in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss until they are fully coated with the marinade.
Heat up 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink on the inside and has developed some nice browned crusts.
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. You can drain off any excess oil if necessary, but you should leave enough to prevent the stir-fry from sticking later.
Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil back into the pan (if needed). Reduce heat slightly to medium. Add sliced onions, bell peppers, and carrots into the skillet. Stir fry these vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the stir-fry ingredients. Pour any remaining marinade over the top of everything. Stir well, allowing flavors to meld together. Continue cooking for another minute or two just to ensure all elements are heated through and thoroughly combined.
Taste test before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more soy sauce, pepper, salt etc...
How To Eat This Chicken Stir-Fry:
This versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside your favorite side dishes like steamed rice, quinoa pilaf, noodles, or even over a bed of greens for a complete meal. If you’re looking to make this more substantial, consider adding some tofu cubes into the mix too - it will add extra protein and texture.
Chicken stir-fry is one of those recipes that can easily be adapted based on what ingredients you have on hand or depending on any dietary preferences such as vegan options. For instance, replacing chicken with tempeh or seitan would work just fine here while still maintaining the same great flavor profile.
Tips And Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Press tofu until it’s firmer, then marinate and cook similarly to the chicken.
- Herbs And Spices: Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs like cilantro, basil, or even some dried oregano or thyme according to your preference.
- Sauce Additions: Besides soy sauce, you could incorporate hoisin sauce for sweetness, or add a splash of apple cider vinegar to give the dish a tangy kick.
Conclusion:
A well-executed simple chicken stir-fry is an absolute treat. Its versatility allows endless possibilities in terms of customization and accompaniments. Whether you're hosting friends for dinner or just looking for something quick during a busy work week, this recipe delivers flavor without the fuss.
Remember, practice makes perfect! As you become more comfortable with stir-frying techniques, feel free to get creative and try out different ingredients and sauces. Bon Appétit!
Note: This article is designed specifically for informational purposes only; please follow food safety guidelines when preparing meals.