Cooking can often feel like a daunting task, especially after a long day at work. However, having a go-to recipe that you can rely on every week can simplify meal prep and ensure that you’re eating something nutritious and delicious. For many, including myself, the dish that checks all these boxes is a classic Chicken Stir Fry. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Here’s why I make this recipe every Monday and how you can make it too.
Why Chicken Stir Fry?
Chicken stir fry is a fantastic meal for several reasons. First and foremost, it is incredibly versatile. You can customize it according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Second, it’s a quick meal—perfect for busy weeknights. Lastly, it’s a healthy option that is packed with protein and vegetables.
Health Benefits
This dish is not just easy to make but also offers an array of health benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken breast is a lean protein source that supports muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Vegetables: The colorful mix of vegetables contributes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Low in Calories: It’s low in calories, especially if you limit the oil and sauce used.
Ingredients You Will Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s look at what you’ll need to prepare a delicious chicken stir fry:
- Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Vegetables: 2 cups of assorted vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, etc.).
- Stir Fry Sauce: 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of honey (or your preferred sauce).
- Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic minced and 1 tablespoon of ginger minced.
- Oil: 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for cooking.
- Rice or Noodles: For serving.
How to Prepare Chicken Stir Fry
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through the steps to make a delightful chicken stir fry.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Mince the garlic and ginger to release their flavors.
Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, and honey. This mixture will act as a thickening agent and add a sweet and savory flavor to your stir fry. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up for a minute. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary and toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the stir fry sauce over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your chicken stir fry over cooked rice or noodles. You can garnish it with sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Variations to Try
One of the greatest aspects of chicken stir fry is its adaptability. Here are a few variations you can try to keep things exciting:
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef depending on your preference.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki, sweet and sour, or a homemade peanut sauce for a twist.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables to add freshness and variety to your meals.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Making chicken stir fry as part of your meal prep can save you time and energy during the week. Here are some tips for effective meal prep:
- Batch Cooking: Prepare a large batch on Monday and divide it into containers for the week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry without the rice or noodles. Just reheat when ready to eat.
- Fresh Ingredients: If using fresh vegetables, consider cutting them ahead of time and storing them in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Chicken stir fry is a fantastic recipe that has earned its place as my go-to meal every Monday. It combines quick preparation, health benefits, and endless customization options, making it a staple in many households. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your unique twist, this dish is sure to please your palate and fit into your busy lifestyle. So, why not make it part of your weekly routine? You might find that it becomes your favorite too!