Delicious Quick Weeknight Meals

Looking for a quick weeknight meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare? Our simple recipe today provides you with a delightful option - Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry. This dish not only tastes fantastic but also takes less than 30 minutes to cook, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something healthy and satisfying fast.

Chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a versatile meal that can be customized according to your taste preferences. It’s packed with essential nutrients such as proteins from the chicken, vitamins from various vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, and antioxidants that promote overall health.

Ingredients

• 400g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small broccoli head, cut into florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water for the thickening agent
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink inside.
2. Add garlic and vegetables into the pan, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. Mix cornstarch and water thoroughly before adding it to your wok along with soy sauce (or tamari). Let everything simmer gently for a few minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.
4. Once done, turn off the heat, garnish if desired, then serve hot!

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe should take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and serves four people generously. It’s an excellent choice for a quick dinner that can be enjoyed by all family members.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

• Total Calories: ~350
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Sodium: 600mg (from soy sauce)

Tips for Perfecting Your Stir Fry

To achieve the best results, make sure your vegetables are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly. Also, don't overcrowd your wok; if you do this, your stir-fry might steam instead of fry which won’t give the same texture.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a more intense flavor, add some ginger to your marinade or during cooking.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit chilies if used. You can also use mild peppers instead of hot ones.
• To make it vegetarian-friendly, replace chicken with tofu cubes and proceed similarly as described above.

Why Choose This Recipe?

This simple yet tasty dish is not only easy to prepare but offers numerous health benefits too. The inclusion of lean protein sources like chicken makes this meal beneficial for muscle repair and growth, while the array of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals needed for maintaining good bodily functions.

Conclusion

A healthy and quick dinner doesn’t have to be boring or difficult to make! With just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools, you can create this delightful Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry any night of the week. Whether you're looking for something new to add to your repertoire or simply want an easy go-to meal when time is short, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.