Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Discover this Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners! Packed with lean chicken, fresh veggies, and a savory homemade sauce, this healthy stir fry is customizable, ready in under 30 minutes, and bursting with flavor. Learn tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this dish your own. Perfect with rice or noodles, it’s a family favorite that’s nutritious and delicious!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons peanut oil
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• White pepper and salt, to taste
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 sticks celery, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3/4 cup baby carrots, quartered

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sweet and sour sauce (La Choy brand recommended)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1-2 pinches red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Cashews, peanuts, green onions, sesame seeds, or crunchy chow mein noodles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sweet and sour sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until fully combined, then set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
   • Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed chicken. Season with white pepper and salt to taste. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is halfway cooked.
4. Add the Vegetables:
   • Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. By this time, the chicken should be nearly cooked through.
   • Add the celery, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and baby carrots. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well and let the mixture come to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables evenly.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from heat and top with optional garnishes like cashews, peanuts, green onions, sesame seeds, or crunchy chow mein noodles. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the vegetables, protein, and sauce to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Savory: A flavorful balance of sweet, tangy, and umami notes.

Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop all vegetables and mix the sauce before starting to cook for a seamless cooking process.
• High Heat: Stir fry works best with high heat to achieve a quick sear and preserve the vegetables’ crunch.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Use a large skillet or wok to ensure even cooking.
• Thicken Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the pan.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, tofu, or tempeh.
• Vegetables: Swap in snap peas, zucchini, mushrooms, or baby corn for variety.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Can I freeze stir fry? Yes, but the texture of the vegetables may soften upon reheating. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• What if my sauce is too thick? Thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or water.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with egg rolls, dumplings, or a light soup like miso or hot and sour.
• Garnish with your favorite toppings for added crunch and flavor.

Enjoy this easy chicken stir fry as a versatile, delicious, and healthy meal option for any occasion!