Homemade Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Description: A delicious and nutritious recipe that combines tender chicken with a variety of fresh vegetables in a savory stir-fry sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or as part of your healthy meal plan.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garnish: sesame seeds and green onions (optional)

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, slice the red bell pepper, chop the onion, and thinly slice the carrots. Wash and cut the broccoli florets.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the cornstarch with some salt and pepper to taste. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat each piece evenly. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Cooking Time: 25 Minutes

Servings: 4 people

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat up the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the red bell pepper and sauté for about two minutes until slightly softened.

Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots, continuing to stir-fry until all the vegetables are tender-crisp. This should take around 5-7 minutes depending on their freshness. Remove this mixture from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), garlic, and a little bit of water to thin out the sauce slightly. You can adjust the amount of water according to your preference for thicker or thinner sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the marinated chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables already cooked. Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce and toss everything together gently until the chicken is fully coated in the flavorful sauce. Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

If you wish to add some extra flair, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top before serving. Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a filling meal.

Tips & Variations

• For a Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes towards the end of cooking to give an extra kick.
• Variation: Add shrimp along with chicken to make it a more substantial meal. Just ensure that both types of protein cook through evenly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This homemade stir-fry is not only packed with flavor but also offers numerous health benefits due to its lean proteins and fiber-rich vegetables. Here’s an overview of the approximate nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
• Fat Content: Around 12g
• Saturated Fat: About 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: Roughly 40g (including fiber of around 9g)
• Protein: Close to 35g

Note: Actual values may vary slightly based on specific ingredient quantities and cooking techniques used.

Conclusion

A homemade chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a delightful option for those looking for quick yet satisfying meals. It's versatile, affordable, and can be customized according to personal preferences. Whether you're cooking for one or entertaining guests, this dish will surely leave everyone pleased with its taste and aroma.