Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

This easy Chicken Stir Fry recipe is a delightful dish that brings vibrant colors and flavors to your dinner table. Packed with fresh veggies and a savory sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this stir fry will impress your family and friends with its amazing taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a deliciously sweet and savory flavor profile.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with fresh vegetables, this dish is nutritious as well as tasty.
• Versatile Meal: Customize with your choice of vegetables or protein to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this Chicken Stir Fry recipe, gather the necessary kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together perfectly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample surface area for even cooking of ingredients while allowing for high heat.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables and chicken into uniform pieces.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper (cut into 1 inch pieces)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (cut into 1 inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup baby carrots (sliced)

For the Sauce

• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp corn starch
• 2 tbsp cold water
• 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the broccoli florets, yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, and sliced baby carrots. Stir-fry these vegetables for about 3–4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, mix together corn starch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. In another bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, minced ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture along with the corn starch slurry. Stir everything well to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice or noodles if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Stir Fry!

How to Serve Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Serving your Chicken Stir Fry recipe can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delicious suggestions to enhance your serving options.

Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the flavors of the stir fry beautifully.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that keeps things light and fresh.

With Noodles

• Rice Noodles: Soft and chewy, these noodles work perfectly with the stir fry sauce.
• Lo Mein Noodles: Add a delightful twist with these savory noodles, perfect for soaking up sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Iceberg Lettuce Leaves: Fresh and crunchy, they provide a fun way to enjoy the stir fry.
• Butter Lettuce: Tender and flavorful, these leaves add a touch of elegance to your dish.

On a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Add your stir fry atop a bed of greens for a refreshing salad option.
• Asian Slaw: Combine with cabbage and carrots for a crunchy side that complements the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

To make your Chicken Stir Fry truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Choices of Veggies: Use seasonal vegetables for freshness. Consider adding snap peas or bell peppers for color.
• Bold Seasoning Techniques: Marinate the chicken briefly in soy sauce and ginger for enhanced flavor before cooking.
• Bold Heat Control: Use high heat to achieve that signature stir fry sear. This locks in moisture and flavor.
• Bold Batch Cooking: Prepare a larger batch to save time on busy nights. The stir fry keeps well in the fridge!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Stir Fry can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Perfectly complements the flavors in the stir fry; simply steam until tender.
2. Fried Rice: A flavorful addition made with leftover rice, eggs, and veggies for added texture.
3. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted, these protein-packed beans add a satisfying crunch.
4. Egg Drop Soup: A warm, comforting soup that contrasts nicely with the stir fry’s bold flavors.
5. Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with vegetables or shrimp; they make an excellent appetizer.
6. Miso Soup: Light yet flavorful, this soup pairs well without overpowering your main dish.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing option that balances out the richness of the stir fry sauce.
8. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and vegetables offers a nutritious side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Chicken Stir Fry recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the Prep Work: Not chopping vegetables or chicken in advance can lead to uneven cooking. Always prepare your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking process.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets that perfect sear.
• Ignoring the Sauce Thickness: Not using cornstarch properly can result in a watery sauce. Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to your stir fry for a nice glaze.
• Using High Heat Sparingly: Cooking on low heat can prevent proper browning and flavor development. Keep your heat high enough to get that restaurant-quality stir fry.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning your dish can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking for the best flavor profile.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Stir Fry in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

• Place cooled stir fry in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between sessions until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water while heating over medium heat, stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

This Chicken Stir Fry recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal option.

Can I customize the vegetables in this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or bell peppers according to your preference.

What protein alternatives can I use in the Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

You can easily swap chicken for beef, turkey, or lamb depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Is this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, making it a nutritious choice for dinner.

Can I meal prep this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Definitely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store portions in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later on.

Conclusion

This Chicken Stir Fry recipe is not only quick and easy but also deliciously versatile. With fresh veggies and a flavorful sauce, it’s a dish that can be tailored to suit your tastes. Try out different vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

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