Perfectly Balanced: A Quick and Simple Meal - Easy Chicken Stir-Fry

Keyword: easy chicken stir-fry

Looking for a quick, delicious meal that can be on the table in less than 30 minutes? Try this easy chicken stir-fry recipe. It's a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors with minimal ingredients you probably already have at home.

This recipe serves four people, providing a healthy, balanced meal that is both satisfying and versatile. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their cooking time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into thin strips
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water
3 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 green onions, thinly sliced (reserve some for garnish)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil
1 bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 carrot, peeled and julienned
1 cup broccoli florets
Salt to taste (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinade the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, water, sugar, cornstarch, garlic, and green onions. Add chicken strips and mix well to coat. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

Cut the bell pepper and carrot into thin slices. Prepare broccoli florets by washing them thoroughly under running water. Set aside all vegetables ready for cooking.

Step 3: Heat Oil in a Wok or Frying Pan

Heat up one tablespoon of olive oil in your wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken strips and stir-fry quickly until they turn opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan using tongs and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add a little more oil if necessary and add vegetables to the same wok. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender yet crisp. Season with salt (optional) during this process.

Step 5: Combine and Sauce

Return the chicken back into the pan along with any remaining marinade. Add sesame oil, mix well, then cook for another minute or two until everything is thoroughly heated through.

Cooking Time & Serving Size

This easy chicken stir-fry recipe takes around 30 minutes to prepare and serves four people. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Tips for Success

Ensure your vegetables are cut uniformly so they cook evenly. This will help maintain proper texture and flavor throughout the dish.
If you prefer a less salty dish, reduce the amount of soy sauce slightly when marinating the chicken.
You can always customize this recipe according to personal taste preferences; adding more spices such as chili powder or ginger could add extra zest!

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 300 kcal, Protein: 45g, Fat: 18g, Carbs: 17g. Please note that these values are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute chicken with another protein? A: Yes, you can use firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version. Just ensure it's not too soft so it holds up well during stir-frying.
Q: What if I don't have all the listed ingredients at hand? A: No worries! You can easily replace any ingredient with something you do have. For example, use diced mushrooms instead of bell peppers or add more greens like spinach for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

An easy chicken stir-fry is not only incredibly tasty but also incredibly versatile and convenient. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a satisfying meal yourself, this dish offers the best of both worlds - simplicity in preparation yet rich flavors that will delight any palate.

Give it a try today and experience for yourself why this easy recipe remains a favorite among many home cooks worldwide!