Easy Chicken Stir-Fry

Keyword: easy chicken stir-fry

Cooking a delicious and healthy meal can be both satisfying and time-saving if done correctly. One such dish that fits this description is the classic easy chicken stir-fry. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet flavorful without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

The key to a great stir-fry lies in its preparation and timing - ensuring that each ingredient cooks evenly so they do not turn out too dry, chewy, or overcooked. Below we will walk you through the steps of creating this dish, including cooking time and number of servings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
• 1 small onion, sliced thinly
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, mince the garlic, slice the onions thinly, and cut the broccoli florets as needed.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Set aside this mixture until later.

Step 3: Heat up two tablespoons of the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot (but not smoking), add the chicken strips to it. Stir-fry for about three minutes, making sure each piece cooks uniformly.

Step 4: Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate. Add more oil if necessary before adding the garlic and onions into the wok or frying pan. Cook until the onions become translucent and slightly browned – approximately two to three minutes depending upon your heat setting.

Step 5: Once the garlic and onion are soft, return the chicken back into the pan along with the broccoli florets. Stir-fry all together for another two or so minutes until everything has warmed through and is tender yet not mushy.

Step 6: Finally, add your reserved sauce mixture and stir well to combine. Continue cooking until the liquid thickens slightly due to starch gelatinization from cornstarch - about one more minute after which time you should have a nicely saucy dish.

Serving Suggestions

This easy chicken stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles if preferred. It makes for an excellent main course on its own but can also be used as part of larger meal plans incorporating salads, soups, etcetera.

Benefits and Tips

• Health Benefits: Packed with essential nutrients like protein from the chicken, vitamins C and K from the broccoli, plus antioxidants present in green onions, this dish contributes significantly towards maintaining overall health.
• Tips for Success: Always make sure your vegetables are cleaned thoroughly beforehand. You may want to blanch them quickly in boiling water prior to stir-frying; this helps retain their bright color and crispness during cooking.

Cooking Time & Servings Information

Cooking time: Approximately 15 minutes total from start to finish.
Servings: This recipe serves four people generously, making it ideal for family dinners or light lunches.

A simple yet satisfying meal like this easy chicken stir-fry allows you to enjoy good food without spending hours in the kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and sauces according to personal preference and dietary restrictions such as adding more bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or even using soy-free alternatives for those following strict kosher or halal guidelines.