Perfectly Balanced Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry

The perfect balance between flavors and textures, this Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that caters to both those who love hearty, protein-rich meals as well as those seeking a lighter option. This versatile recipe can serve up to 4 people, taking approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.

Chicken and vegetables stir-fried together are a common sight at many dinner tables around the world. The combination of savory chicken and crunchy vegetables provides an excellent balance of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. This versatile dish can be made in just under half an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, peeled and grated (or use a fresh ginger paste)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Garnishes: sesame seeds, green onions, or chopped peanuts (optional)

To start your Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry, first marinate the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.

While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. Wash and cut all vegetables into bite-sized pieces if necessary. This ensures even cooking time during stir-frying. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch to make the glaze for your dish.

Instructions

1. Heat up a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink on the inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Now toss in your prepared vegetables: broccoli florets first followed by red bell pepper slices and then onion pieces. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender-crisp.
3. Return the cooked chicken back into the pan along with garlic and ginger. Sauté everything together for another minute or two to allow all flavors to meld nicely. Then pour in the sauce mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly due to cornstarch acting as a natural thickener.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt and pepper according to your preference. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions or chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture before serving hot!

This Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry not only tastes great but also offers numerous health benefits. Packed full of essential nutrients from fresh vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, it's packed with vitamin C which supports your immune system while helping to maintain healthy skin. Meanwhile, lean chicken provides quality protein crucial for muscle repair after workouts.

Feel free to adjust this recipe based on what ingredients you have at home or any dietary restrictions you might be dealing with. For instance, omitting the oyster sauce can make it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet as many brands of oyster sauce contain soybean products which may not meet strict gluten-free standards.

Final Thoughts

With its quick preparation time and satisfying flavors, this Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry is perfect for busy weeknight meals or casual weekend gatherings. Whether you're looking to try something new in the kitchen or simply want a reliable go-to dish, this recipe offers flexibility while delivering delicious results every single time.

Enjoy your perfectly balanced Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry! Remember, proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining overall health; hence, incorporating such nutritious meals into daily routines can help keep you energized throughout the day.