Easy Weeknight Chicken Stir-Fry

Chicken stir-fry has become a go-to meal for busy weeknights due to its versatility and delicious flavor profile. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or want something heartier, this recipe will satisfy your hunger while providing a satisfying balance of protein and vegetables.

This easy chicken stir-fry is packed with umami-rich flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds! Packed into each serving are 27g of lean protein which makes it an ideal meal to serve alongside rice or noodles. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes and serves four people.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large bell pepper, any color, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 green onions, chopped for garnish
• Cooking wine or chicken broth (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients. Slice the onion into thin half-moons and slice the bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.

1. Trim the chicken breasts of any visible fat and cut them into bite-sized strips, about one inch long. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch for at least 10 minutes to help tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor.
2. In a large skillet or wok over high heat, add olive oil (or vegetable oil).
3. Once the oil is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade. Toss out any leftover marinade as it will burn once added to the pan; this prevents bitter taste in your stir-fry.
4. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper into the skillet or wok. Stir-fry until the vegetables become slightly softened (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Return the chicken to the skillet or wok, stirring frequently. When the chicken is no longer pink inside, about 5-6 minutes more, add garlic and stir until fragrant.
6. If desired, add a splash of cooking wine or chicken broth for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Stir in green onions and heat through just enough to wilt the greens without losing their crunchiness (about 1 minute). Remove from heat.

Step 2: Serve immediately, garnished with green onions on top. Serve alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information per Serving

• Total Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 21g (13g saturated)
• Sodium: 960mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g (7g fiber, 11g sugars)

Tips and Tricks

• To keep the stir-fry flavorful, ensure that you use a large skillet or wok to maximize contact between the chicken, vegetables, and heat.
• For a heartier meal, add some whole wheat noodles or rice for a complete plate of comfort food.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on low until hot throughout before serving with fresh vegetables and garnish if preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: Can I substitute chicken for another protein?
• A: Absolutely! While this dish is delicious when made with chicken, you can also try beef, pork, or shrimp as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat you are using.
2. Q: What if I want a spicier version?
• A: Add some heat by adding diced fresh chilies and a teaspoon of chili powder or hot sauce during the stir-frying process. Be mindful that this can drastically increase the spice level.
3. Q: Are there any alternatives for soy sauce if I’m avoiding gluten?
• A: Yes, you can use tamari (a gluten-free version of soy sauce) or coconut aminos as an alternative. Both offer similar flavors without the worry of gluten.

Chicken stir-fry is more than just a simple meal; it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for something quick, filling, or even a bit spicy, this recipe has got you covered! Enjoy your delicious and nutritious weeknight meals!