Introduction

Chicken and vegetable stir-fry is an easy and vibrant dish that embodies the essence of quick and healthy cooking. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe brings together tender chicken pieces and a colorful array of vegetables, all tossed in a delicious sauce that packs a punch. With its satisfying textures and vivid flavors, it’s a dish that can easily become a favorite in your household.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 300g
Red bell pepper – 1
Broccoli – 150g
Carrot – 1
Spring onions – 2
Garlic – 2 cloves
Ginger – 1 inch piece
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste

Prep Time

The preparation time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes. This includes washing and chopping the vegetables and preparing the chicken, ensuring a swift cooking process.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3 people
This quick cooking method guarantees a fresh and healthy meal made in no time, perfect for those who lead busy lives but still want nutritious food.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into thin strips to ensure even cooking and faster preparation.

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, into bite-sized pieces to facilitate quick cooking and a good mix of textures.

Heat the Pan

Place a large non-stick frying pan or wok on the stove over high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Allow it to become hot before adding the ingredients.

Add the Chicken

Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken strips to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Add the Vegetables

Introduce the chopped vegetables to the pan with the chicken. Stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Add Flavor

Incorporate soy sauce, garlic, and ginger into the mixture, stirring well to ensure all components are coated with flavor. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Remove the stir-fry from the heat, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Notes

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference, such as snap peas or zucchini.

Cooking Time

Total cooking time for this recipe should be around 15 to 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option.

Storage Suggestions

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated when needed.

Cook techniques

Stir-frying

Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that involves frying small pieces of food in a hot pan with a small amount of oil. This technique helps to maintain the food’s flavor and texture while ensuring it cooks evenly.

Chopping vegetables

Properly chopping vegetables is essential for a successful stir-fry. Cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and to give the dish a visually appealing presentation.

Marinating

Marinating chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade can consist of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors before cooking.

Using high heat

Cooking at high heat is crucial for stir-frying. It makes sure the ingredients cook quickly and evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Layering flavors

Building flavors in a stir-fry involves adding ingredients in stages, starting with aromatics like garlic and ginger, followed by the protein and then the vegetables.

Finishing with sauce

Adding a sauce towards the end of cooking helps to coat the ingredients and brings the dish together. It is important to combine the sauce thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu depending on your preference.

What vegetables can I use in a stir-fry?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Choose seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken and consider marinating it beforehand to retain moisture.

Can I prepare the stir-fry ahead of time?

While it’s best to stir-fry just before serving, you can chop vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time to save preparation time.

Is stir-frying healthy?

Yes, stir-frying is generally a healthy cooking method as it uses minimal oil and allows for a variety of vegetables to be included in your meal.

Conclusion

The Chicken and Veg Stir-Fry is a fantastic dish that brings together tender chicken and a vibrant array of vegetables, making it not just delicious but also nutritious. Its quick cooking time and adaptable nature make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a healthy home-cooked meal in no time.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry

Try a sweet and savory twist by adding teriyaki sauce to your chicken stir-fry, pairing it with broccoli and bell peppers for a delightful dish.

Spicy Szechuan Noodle Stir-Fry

For those who enjoy some heat, add Szechuan sauce to your stir-fry and toss in some noodles along with your favorite veggies.

Vegetarian Tofu Stir-Fry

Substitute the chicken with tofu and include a variety of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a flavorful vegetarian option.

Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

Incorporate Thai basil and chili peppers for an aromatic dish that adds an exciting flavor profile to your stir-fry.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry

For a seafood variation, use shrimp sautéed with lemon juice, garlic, and mixed vegetables for a light and refreshing meal.