Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Keyword: healthy chicken stir-fry

Looking for a quick and nutritious dinner option? Healthy chicken stir-fry with vegetables is an excellent choice that satisfies your craving without compromising on health. This dish not only offers you a delightful mix of flavors but also provides essential nutrients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or those days when you just need something light yet satisfying.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 zucchini, sliced diagonally
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnishing)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce with cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will act as your thickening agent for the stir-fry.
2. Heat up 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook them until they turn golden brown on both sides. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
4. Now, toss in all your vegetables one by one starting with the zucchini, followed by yellow bell pepper, then red bell pepper, and finally broccoli. Stir-fry them for approximately 5 minutes or until they start to soften slightly.
5. Pour in the soy sauce mixture you prepared earlier. Stir everything together gently so that the veggies and chicken get coated evenly.
6. Once everything is well combined and heated through (another minute or two), return your chicken back into the pan. Let it sit for a couple more minutes to ensure all components meld nicely together.
7. To finish, sprinkle some sesame seeds over top as garnish along with chopped cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations:

• Variation: For those who prefer a sweeter taste profile, consider adding half a cup of sliced carrots or peas during the last minute of cooking.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this healthy chicken stir-fry with steamed white rice or brown basmati rice. It pairs wonderfully with quinoa too!

This simple recipe showcases how versatile and adaptable ingredients like chicken breast, bell peppers, zucchini, etc., can be in creating delicious meals without sacrificing nutritional value.

Nutritional Information:

Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, including protein from the chicken which promotes muscle repair after workouts; fiber from vegetables helps maintain digestive health; and healthy fats come from olive oil which supports brain function.

Conclusion:

A healthy chicken stir-fry with vegetables isn't just a meal—it's an excellent way to introduce more plant-based proteins into your diet while enjoying the benefits of fresh produce. Whether you're looking for something quick during busy weekdays or planning ahead for healthier lunches throughout the week, this dish offers convenience coupled with taste.