Quick and Easy Chicken Stir-Fry: A Delicious Meal in Minutes

Chicken stir-fry is one of the most popular and versatile recipes that many families enjoy for dinner. It can be prepared with a variety of ingredients, and it's easy to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you're looking for something quick to throw together on a busy weeknight or want to impress guests with an impressive dish, chicken stir-fry is a go-to choice.

The best thing about this recipe is its adaptability; you can easily change the vegetables and proteins according to your preference. Typically made with chicken, it's packed with flavors and can be served hot and fresh. For today’s recipe, we're using boneless chicken breasts, but you could also use thighs or tenders for different textures.

This quick and easy meal is perfect for those who want a tasty dish that doesn't take long to prepare. The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, which includes the marinating process and stir-frying. You can serve it as an entree with steamed rice or noodles, or use it as a topping on salads.

Let's dive into how we prepare our Chicken Stir-Fry recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• (Optional) Hot sauce or sriracha for extra heat

Marinade and Preparation:

Begin by marinating the chicken breasts. Place them in a bowl and mix soy sauce and cornstarch until well combined. Pour over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes but preferably up to an hour.

Cooking:

Once your marinade has done its job, heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink inside (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.

In the same pan, add the sliced onions and garlic for a couple of minutes; stir-fry until they become translucent but still retain their crispness.

Now it's time to introduce your mixed vegetables. Stir them into the skillet along with the chicken. Cook this mixture together for another 5-7 minutes or until all components are heated through and the vegetables are just tender-crisp.

Season with salt, pepper, and if desired, some hot sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully well with steamed rice. Serve it alongside a side salad for a nutritious meal that satisfies both your taste buds and nutrition needs. For a heartier option, serve over noodles—especially if you opt to use chicken thighs or tenders, which will give the sauce more body.

Tips and Variations

• Use leftovers: This stir-fry is excellent for making ahead of time. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold as a lunchtime meal with a side of sliced cucumbers or carrot sticks.
• Add protein: If you want to add more protein, consider adding strips of chicken or beef along with the vegetables.
• Vary the vegetable selection: Experiment with different types of vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or snow peas. These will contribute additional flavors and textures to your dish.

Conclusion

A Chicken Stir-Fry is a simple yet delicious recipe that can be customized according to individual preferences. It’s packed with nutrients from the fresh vegetables, provides lean protein in chicken breasts, and offers plenty of satisfaction thanks to its robust flavors. Whether you're looking for something quick to fix or want to impress your dinner guests, this dish certainly fits the bill!