Easy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe: A Flavorful Dinner for Busy Nights

Keyword: EASY CHICKEN STIR-FRY RECIPE

Looking for an easy chicken stir-fry recipe that you can whip up in no time? This versatile dish is perfect for busy nights when you need something quick and delicious. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this meal comes together effortlessly. Whether you're looking to impress your family or just enjoy a satisfying dinner on your own, this simple recipe will satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the stir-fry:

• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and julienned
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt to taste
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing the chicken. In a small bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: While the chicken is marinating, slice your red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces and julienne your carrots. This step will ensure that all vegetables are ready once they hit the wok or pan.

Step 3: In a large skillet or wok, heat up one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once hot, add the chicken and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until no longer pink inside.

Step 4: Remove the cooked chicken from the pan, set aside on a plate, then reduce the heat to low. Add another tablespoon of oil if necessary, followed by minced garlic, stirring continuously as it cooks. Garlic is essential in enhancing flavors and should not be undercooked.

Step 5: Add your diced red bell peppers and julienned carrots back into the pan. Stir-fry for an additional two minutes until vegetables are slightly tender yet still crisp. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6: Return the chicken to the wok or skillet, along with two tablespoons of water to help create a tasty sauce as it cooks down. Let this mixture simmer together for another minute before serving hot off the heat.

Cooking Time and Servings

This easy chicken stir-fry recipe requires approximately 15-20 minutes of active cooking time, depending on your speed while stirring the ingredients. It yields about four servings, which is perfect for a family meal or even leftovers to pack in lunches.

Optional Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as broccoli florets, snap peas, or zucchini into this stir-fry. Just ensure they are cut uniformly so they cook evenly with other components.
• Herb Flavor Boost: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves over the top before serving for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.

The simplicity of this easy chicken stir-fry recipe allows you to experiment with different combinations, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences. You can also try adding other protein sources like tofu or shrimp if preferred. Additionally, using various sauces such as oyster sauce or hoisin sauce instead of soy sauce will give the dish a unique taste.

Conclusion

With this simple guide at hand, creating an easy chicken stir-fry has never been easier! This versatile recipe serves as an excellent base for any weeknight dinner or even packed into a lunchbox the next day. Its affordability and flexibility make it suitable for all types of cooks, from beginners to seasoned chefs alike.

Remember, practice makes perfect—each time you prepare this dish, take note of what works best for your palate and adjust accordingly. Enjoy your cooking experience and savor every bite!