Simple Stir-Fry Chicken Recipe

Keyword: simple stir-fry chicken recipe

Looking for a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this simple stir-fry chicken recipe! This dish is perfect for those nights when you want to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and versatility, it can be served with rice or noodles as a main course or even enjoyed alongside salad greens as part of a lighter meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 small onion, sliced thinly
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garnish: fresh cilantro (optional)

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Number of Servings: 4 servings

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing your marinade. In a medium bowl, mix together soy sauce and cornstarch until smooth. Add the chicken breasts to this mixture and toss gently until each piece is coated evenly. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

While you’re waiting for the chicken to marinate, prepare your vegetables by slicing them into bite-sized pieces. This includes the red bell pepper strips, julienned carrot, and sliced onion. These will add vibrant colors and nutrients to your dish.

Step 3: Heat Oil in Wok or Large Pan

In a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat, pour the vegetable oil until it’s about an inch deep. Allow the oil to heat up for about two minutes.

Step 4: Sauté Chicken

Add the marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil and stir-fry them for approximately three minutes or until they turn golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd your pan; doing so could lead to steaming instead of browning which would affect the texture.

Step 5: Combine Vegetables

Add the garlic, ginger, sliced vegetables, and a pinch each of salt and pepper into the pan. Stir-fry everything together until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies have softened but still retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

Step 6: Serve with Garnish

Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro if desired, then serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Simple stir-fry chicken can also be enjoyed on its own as a main course accompanied by some side greens such as lettuce and cucumber slices.

Tips for Success:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also retain more nutrients compared to frozen or canned ones.
2. Heat Oil Properly: Ensuring that your oil is hot before adding food ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy texture without burning.
3. Mix Carefully: Stir-frying requires quick, careful movements. Overmixing can cause the vegetables to break down too much and lose their crispness.
4. Adjust Seasonings: Taste your stir-fry before serving it; adjust with more soy sauce or additional spices if needed to suit personal tastes.

Variations:

To diversify this simple stir-fry chicken recipe, consider adding other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even pork. Experimenting with different vegetables such as green beans, snow peas, or broccoli can also yield exciting new flavors and textures. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce.

Simple stir-fry chicken is not just limited to dinner; it can be used in various forms throughout the week—make use of leftovers for lunch wraps filled with rice and cucumber slices, or pack them into sandwiches for quick weekday meals. It pairs wonderfully with different sauces like hoisin sauce for a sweet touch, or add a drizzle of honey to balance out any tanginess.

In conclusion, this simple stir-fry chicken recipe offers an array of benefits: it's easy to prepare, economical, and adaptable enough to accommodate various dietary preferences. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new in the kitchen, this dish serves as a delightful culinary exploration without requiring extensive skill or time investment. Try this recipe today and discover why it has become such a favorite among many families.