Easy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe: A Quick Meal for Busy Nights

Chicken stir-fry is one of the most popular recipes in the world due to its versatility and ease of preparation. This simple dish can be modified in countless ways, from adding fresh vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, to incorporating different sauces such as soy sauce or oyster sauce.

This recipe is designed for those who are short on time but want a delicious dinner option. The cooking time is approximately 20 minutes and serves two people generously. You will need just six main ingredients: chicken breasts, red bell peppers, green onions, garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 600 grams total)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 3 green onions, cut into small pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Sesame oil
• Soy sauce (to taste)

To start preparing the dish:

1. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
2. Heat up a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of sesame oil until it is warm but not smoking hot.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pan; stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove from the pan once done and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add a bit more sesame oil if necessary, then toss in your sliced bell peppers along with minced garlic cloves. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften slightly but retain their vibrant color.
5. Return the chicken back into the pan, stirring gently so that everything mixes well together. Pour in a generous amount of soy sauce (to taste). Cook everything together for about 2 more minutes or just enough time for the flavors to meld nicely.

When you're ready to serve:

• Garnish with green onions on top. Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or even as a side dish alongside other main courses such as fish fillets or beef strips.

Tips and Variations

If you're looking to add more depth of flavor to your chicken stir-fry, consider adding any one of these ingredients: carrots, mushrooms, celery, or a touch more garlic. You can also try using teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.

For those who prefer their meals with a bit less sodium, feel free to cut down on the amount of soy sauce used in the recipe. Alternatively, if you’re aiming for something spicier, add some chili flakes during the cooking process or serve it alongside a side of steamed bok choy that has been drizzled lightly with sesame oil and sprinkled liberally with salt.

Storage:

• If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container inside the fridge. Leftover chicken stir-fry should last up to 4 days if refrigerated properly.

Conclusion

Chicken stir-fry is not only nutritious and filling but also extremely adaptable. With its quick preparation time, this dish makes it easy for busy individuals or families alike to enjoy a satisfying meal at home. Whether you’re having guests over or just preparing dinner for yourself after work, this recipe will provide you with excellent results.

Try experimenting by adding your favorite vegetables and sauces to make each batch unique!