Easy Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Keyword: chicken stir-fry with vegetables

Chicken stir-fry with vegetables is a classic dish that combines the simplicity of stir-frying and the versatility of chicken with fresh, crunchy vegetables. It's a perfect weekday meal when you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dinner.

This dish takes only 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights when you need something quick yet flavorful. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what vegetables are in season or what you have available at your local grocery store. The result is a vibrant, colorful meal that will brighten up any day.

The dish serves 4 people, so it's perfect for a family dinner or a casual lunch with friends. If you're looking to expand your stir-fry repertoire beyond the standard chicken and vegetables, consider adding tofu or shrimp for added protein and texture. For those who want to add more variety to their diet, try incorporating some gluten-free noodles or quinoa.

Here's how to prepare this delicious recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 1 pound of boneless thighs)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup carrots, sliced thinly
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• A pinch of salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with a little water for thickening the sauce (if desired)

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. If using boneless thighs, cut them as well.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once it's hot, add the chicken and stir-fry until they are browned on all sides but not fully cooked through (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about a minute. Add the red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and carrots. Stir-fry until these vegetables are just tender-crisp (about 5 minutes).

4. Return the chicken to the skillet, add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. If using cornstarch for thickening, mix it into a little water and stir this mixture into the pan as well.

5. Cover the pan and let the dish simmer until everything is heated through but still retains its freshness (about 2-3 minutes). Taste test and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately!

Tips for a Perfect Stir-Fry

• Heat the pan properly: The pan should be hot enough to make the oil sizzle when you first pour it in.
• Cook the chicken separately: If you want juicy and tender chicken, cook them separately from vegetables as they can dry out faster than veggies. This way, your final dish will have a better balance of flavors and textures.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables add vibrant color and crispness to the stir-fry, making it more enjoyable. Always use fresh vegetables if possible.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This simple dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Here’s a rough estimate of nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 40g (from vegetables)
• Protein: 28g (from chicken)

The nutritional values can vary slightly based on the exact ingredients and quantities used. For those who are watching their calorie intake, you can reduce the amount of oil or opt for a more balanced serving size.

Why You Should Try This Recipe?

This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for those days when you need something quick but still want to eat healthily and enjoy delicious flavors. It’s easy to make, requires minimal effort, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're in a hurry or simply looking for a comforting meal after a busy day, chicken stir-fry with vegetables is an excellent choice.

Additionally, this recipe works well as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of plant-based proteins, vitamins, and minerals from the colorful vegetables. It's also versatile enough to be adapted into different variations like adding more spices or changing up the types of vegetables used. This makes it not only convenient but also an exciting meal option for those who love experimenting with new flavors in their kitchen.

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p>So next time you're craving a quick and healthy dinner, give this chicken stir-fry with vegetables a try! It's sure to become one of your go-to recipes for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.