How to Make Delicious Chicken Stir-Fry

Chicken stir-fry is one of those versatile dishes that can be made in a flash and served as a delicious main course or paired with rice for an even more satisfying meal. Whether you're looking for something quick for dinner or want to impress your family, this recipe will guide you through creating a tasty dish that everyone will love.

The preparation time for making chicken stir-fry is approximately 20 minutes, and the total cooking time is around 45 minutes. The final meal makes about four servings, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, sliced thinly
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 4 tablespoons water to make a slurry
• Salt and pepper to taste

This recipe calls for basic ingredients that are widely available in most grocery stores. You can adjust the amount of soy sauce according to your taste preference, as some people prefer it slightly salty.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Cut the chicken into strips: Start by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch wide and 2-inch long strips. This will ensure that each piece is easily cooked through without being too large to chew comfortably.
2. Mix a slurry for thickening: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slurries help thicken the sauce and are essential in achieving that perfect consistency. Stir well until there are no lumps left.
3. Fry onions and garlic: Heat up 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they turn golden brown and fragrant, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it adds depth to the flavor profile.
4. Add chicken strips: Once the onions are done, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Stir-fry for a few minutes or until the chicken turns white throughout. Be careful not to overcrowd your pan; otherwise, the chicken might steam instead of fry. Cooking time should be around 5-7 minutes.
5. Add vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers and broccoli florets into the skillet. Continue stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes until all vegetables are tender yet crisp. Ensure that you don’t overcook them, or they might lose their vibrant color and crisp texture.
6. Mix in soy sauce: After the chicken has been cooked thoroughly, add soy sauce to taste. Mix well with all ingredients. Then pour in the cornstarch slurry from earlier for thickening purposes. Stir continuously until it reaches your desired consistency. The sauce should be slightly thick but not too runny.
7. Serve immediately: Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles if preferred.

Tips & Variations:

To add more depth to your dish, consider adding other vegetables such as carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, or even zucchini slices. You could also experiment with different proteins like beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a change of pace.

9. For added flavor: Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving to give extra texture and aroma.
10. To keep the dish authentic: Serve with steamed white rice or noodles. If you want to elevate this further, try adding a side of vegetable dumplings or a simple salad as part of your meal.

Incorporating chicken stir-fry into your weekly menu offers an efficient way to prepare meals while ensuring everyone enjoys nutritious and delicious food. Try this recipe today and see the difference it makes in your kitchen routine!