Simple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe: A Quick and Delicious Meal

Chicken stir-fry is a popular dish that can be served as a quick meal or as part of a larger meal such as with rice or noodles. In this recipe, we will guide you through how to make a simple yet tasty chicken stir-fry that can serve two people in just under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated or finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
3. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add vegetable oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the surface.
5. When the oil is hot but not smoking, add chicken pieces. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until they are no longer pink inside.
6. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate. Do not drain any of the cooking liquid.
7. Return the same pan to high heat with the remaining oil if necessary, then add the sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry until they are soft but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
8. Add the cooked chicken back into the mixture along with soy sauce mixture. Allow everything to combine for another minute or two, stirring frequently so that all ingredients get coated evenly in sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper if needed before serving hot immediately after.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Servings: Makes about 2 large portions or more as a side dish

Why Choose This Recipe?

This chicken stir-fry is not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavor. It provides a delightful balance between salty soy sauce and fresh vegetables. The quick cooking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy while the bell peppers and onions retain their crisp texture.

Health Benefits

• Protein Rich: Chicken is one of the best sources of lean protein which helps to repair body tissues, support muscle growth and maintenance. It also contains essential amino acids that are necessary for various bodily functions including immune function.
• Antioxidant Properties: Red bell pepper in this dish has a high content of vitamin C which acts as an antioxidant protecting cells from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C is vital for the production of collagen, which supports skin health and wound healing.
• Fiber Content: The green bell peppers are also good sources of dietary fiber that aids in digestion and may help lower cholesterol levels when consumed regularly along with a balanced diet.

Tips For Perfect Stir-Fry

1. Ensure your wok or skillet is hot before adding any ingredients. This ensures even cooking without burning the chicken or vegetables.

2. Do not overcrowd the pan as this can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying which may result in less than desirable results where juices and flavors are not fully integrated into the dish.

3. To achieve the best color, texture, and flavor, always slice your vegetables thinly before cooking. Also, make sure everything is prepped ahead of time to avoid interruptions during actual stir-frying process.

Conclusion

A simple chicken stir-fry can be a delicious addition to your meal plan whether you're looking for something quick after a long day at work or want an impressive dish to serve guests. This versatile recipe caters well to both beginners and experienced cooks alike, making it perfect for any kitchen.