Simple Yet Flavorful Chicken Stir-Fry

Savoring the delicious aroma of a homemade stir-fry is an absolute delight! This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy this meal as a solo diner or even feed a small family. The following recipe serves two people.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (canola or olive)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 large green onion, cut into small pieces
• 2 carrots, sliced thinly on an angle
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water for the thickening sauce

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, add sliced chicken strips. Add salt and pepper if desired; mix thoroughly.
2. Mix the cornstarch with water in another small bowl to create a slurry that helps thicken the sauce later.
3. Heat vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet or wok until it is shimmering, then add chicken strips. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the chicken turns white and starts to slightly brown on edges; this will ensure that the meat is thoroughly cooked throughout.
4. Add garlic, bell pepper, carrots, green onions, and soy sauce into the skillet or wok with the stir-fried chicken. Stir continuously for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp enough to retain their texture.
5. Finally, pour in the cornstarch mixture slowly while stirring vigorously to avoid lumps from forming within your dish. Allow it to thicken and coat all ingredients well by continuing to stir gently; the sauce should be smooth yet thick enough to stick lightly onto each item of food.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure that you have a wide, flat-bottomed pan suitable for stir-frying, as this type of cooking requires quick and even movement over high heat. A wok or a large skillet works well here.
• The key to perfecting the texture lies in ensuring the chicken is fully cooked but not overcooked; aim for white meat with slight browning on edges rather than dark brown.
• For added flavor, consider tossing in some fresh ginger, green beans, and celery into your stir-fry.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The nutritional details provided per serving are estimated as follows:

• Total Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 35 grams
• Fat: 18 grams
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 27 grams, including dietary fiber of approximately 3 grams

Tips for Enjoyment and Pairing

• This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice. Alternatively, you can also serve it alongside some noodles like udon or soba.
• For a more adventurous twist, add some fresh basil leaves just before serving to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Cook this meal in advance and store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it either by microwaving or on the stovetop, ensuring all flavors remain intact even after reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken Stir-Fry is a versatile and quick-to-make meal that everyone in your household will love. Its simplicity makes it a go-to choice for busy days when you need something delicious yet simple to prepare. Whether you're looking to enjoy this dish on its own or as part of a larger meal, its rich flavor profile ensures satisfaction every time.