Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables

Name: Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts (sliced); 1 cup snap peas; 1 cup carrots (sliced); 1 bell pepper (sliced); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ginger (grated); Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal, this chicken stir fry with vegetables is the answer. Bursting with colors and flavors, this dish combines tender chicken pieces with an assortment of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir fry will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, sliced
1 cup snap peas
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 300 calories, 25g protein, 15g carbohydrates, 15g fat, and 3g fiber. This value is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Prepare all your ingredients by slicing the chicken and vegetables.
Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Stir in the carrots and cook for 2 minutes.
Add snap peas and bell pepper; stir-fry for another 3 minutes.
Pour soy sauce over the mixture and toss to coat.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes until vegetables are tender but crisp.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. Vegetables can also be varied—try adding broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preference.

Serving and Pairings

This chicken stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of greens or with a side of spring rolls.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s stored properly to maintain quality.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Cook just until no longer pink.
Not prepping ingredients in advance can lead to uneven cooking.
Using too much soy sauce can make the dish overly salty; adjust to taste.
Skipping the ginger may result in less flavor depth.
Cooking on too low heat can cause the chicken to steam instead of fry.

Helpful Tips

Use a high smoke point oil for best results.
Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Feel free to experiment with sauces like teriyaki or sweet and sour.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are heated through and tender.

What can I serve with stir fry?

Stir fry is delicious with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of fresh salad or spring rolls.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To keep chicken moist, avoid overcooking and consider marinating it beforehand. Cooking on high heat helps to seal in juices.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, this chicken stir fry is healthy, packed with protein and vegetables, and can be made low-carb by serving it over greens instead of rice.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and add more vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.

Conclusion

This chicken stir fry with vegetables is a delightful and nutritious dish that is quick to prepare and full of flavor. With its vibrant colors and crunch, it makes a perfect weeknight dinner that is sure to please the whole family.