ADVERTISEMENT
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the pan, making sure it’s spread out in a single layer. Let it cook without stirring for about 2-3 minutes so it gets a nice sear. Then, stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pan. You can use a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snow peas, or customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. If you like your veggies softer, cook them for a little longer.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chicken back into the pan.
- Pour the stir fry sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and coat the chicken and vegetables.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve your chicken stir fry hot over steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Stir Fry
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying is best done over high heat. This allows the ingredients to cook quickly, ensuring the chicken stays tender and the vegetables remain crisp.
- Prep Everything First: Stir-fry cooks fast, so it’s important to prep all your ingredients before you start. Chop the chicken, slice the vegetables, and mix the sauce to have everything ready to go.
- Customize with Vegetables: You can use any vegetables you like in your stir fry. Some other great options include zucchini, baby corn, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy stir fry, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some fresh chilies with the garlic and ginger while stir-frying.
- Add Crunch with Nuts: If you like a little crunch, toss in some cashews or almonds at the end of cooking.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, swap the soy sauce for tamari, and make sure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free as well.
Variations of Chicken Stir Fry
- Chicken and Cashew Stir Fry: Add roasted cashews to the stir fry for a nutty crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Szechuan Chicken Stir Fry: Add a tablespoon of Szechuan peppercorns or more chili paste to the sauce for a spicy, tangy kick.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry: Substitute the hoisin sauce with more honey and garlic to create a sweeter, garlic-forward stir fry.
- Low-Carb Chicken Stir Fry: Skip the rice or noodles and serve the stir fry on top of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Conclusion: The Perfect Chicken Stir Fry
Making the best chicken stir fry is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can create a meal that’s packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition. This recipe is highly customizable, so you can make it your own by adjusting the vegetables, seasonings, or sauces.
Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or on its own, your perfect chicken stir fry will be a dish everyone will enjoy. It’s the ideal meal for busy nights when you want something satisfying, healthy, and delicious. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade stir fry that’s far better than takeout!
ADVERTISEMENT
