Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

This easy Chicken Stir Fry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a quick, healthy meal. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a delicious sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil, this dish will impress your family and friends alike. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful dinner that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This chicken stir fry takes only 20 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Bursting with Flavor: A savory blend of honey and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize this dish to your liking.
• Healthy Option: With plenty of veggies and lean protein, this recipe offers a wholesome meal without compromising on flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this colorful and tasty stir fry, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Stir Fry recipe smoothly, having the right tools is essential. These items will help streamline the cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or wok: A large skillet or wok allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken while providing enough space to stir-fry the vegetables efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe, ensuring even size for uniform cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for creating the perfect sauce balance in your chicken stir fry.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

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)
• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Sauce

• 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 Your Ingredients

Start by cutting all your veggies and chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures everything cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked through, add broccoli florets, yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, baby carrots, ginger, and garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3–4 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine corn starch with cold water to create a slurry. Then add chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

This Chicken Stir Fry recipe is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of your stir fry.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken stir fry over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly.

With Noodles

• Toss the stir fry with cooked rice noodles or udon for a delightful twist. This adds additional texture and makes it even more satisfying.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the chicken stir fry into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option. Top with chopped peanuts for added crunch!

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the stir fry on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a healthy salad. Drizzle with extra sesame oil for flavor.

As Meal Prep

• Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to four days!

How to Perfect Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

To make your Chicken Stir Fry truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and ensure great results every time.

• Use fresh vegetables – Fresh veggies like bell peppers and broccoli enhance flavor and texture, making your dish vibrant.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cooking in smaller batches ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, leading to better flavors.
• Marinate chicken – Marinate chicken pieces briefly in soy sauce and ginger for extra flavor before cooking.
• Add color – Incorporate various colored vegetables not only for nutrition but also to make your dish visually appealing.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste your stir fry before serving and adjust seasoning as needed; feel free to add more soy sauce or honey.
• Serve immediately – For optimal taste and texture, serve the stir fry right after cooking while everything is hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Stir Fry can create a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic choice that soaks up all the delicious sauce from the stir fry.
2. Fried Rice – Enhance your meal by serving fried rice with vegetables; it’s an excellent way to use leftovers.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances out the warmth of the stir fry.
4. Egg Drop Soup – A comforting soup that complements Asian dishes well, adding warmth to your meal.
5. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a delightful crunch alongside your stir fry.
6. Quinoa Pilaf – Quinoa adds protein and pairs wonderfully with chicken while offering a nutty flavor profile.
7. Miso Soup – A light miso soup can act as a gentle starter, setting the tone for your flavorful main course.
8. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic are quick to prepare and add an extra vegetable serving to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Chicken Stir Fry, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinating step – Marinating chicken enhances its flavor. Take a few minutes to marinate it in soy sauce and ginger for better taste.
• Overcrowding the pan – Overcrowding prevents even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture.
• Not preparing ingredients ahead of time – Stir-frying goes quickly. Have all your vegetables chopped and sauces ready before you start cooking.
• Using low-quality ingredients – Fresh veggies and good-quality chicken make a big difference. Invest in fresh produce for better flavor.
• Cooking on low heat – High heat is essential for a proper stir fry. Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Stir Fry in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Chicken Stir Fry recipe.

How can I customize my Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

You can add your favorite vegetables like snap peas or mushrooms. Adjust the sauce by adding more honey or soy sauce based on your taste preference.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to prevent extra moisture in the dish.

What type of chicken is best for this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal, but you could also use thighs for more flavor and tenderness.

Is this Chicken Stir Fry Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it a great option for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Stir Fry recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavors that your family will love. Feel free to customize it with different veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand. Give it a try; you’ll enjoy its versatility!