Chicken Stir Fry is a quintessential dish that every home cook should have in their repertoire. It’s a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with tender chicken and crisp vegetables. What makes this dish truly remarkable is its simplicity, versatility, and health benefits, making it an ideal choice for beginners. Let’s dive into this recipe and uncover how you can whip up this flavorful dish with ease.
PrintMastering a Classic: Chicken Stir Fry Recipe for Beginners
🔥🥢 Craving a delicious homemade meal? Try this Chicken Stir Fry! 🍗🥦 Perfect for beginners, it’s loaded with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a sauce that’s full of flavor. Simple, healthy, and ready in no time—this recipe is a weeknight hero! 🍲✨
#StirFryPerfection #ChickenAndVeggies #BeginnerCooks #QuickAndHealthyMeals #SavoryAndSimple #EasyStirFry #DinnerMadeEasy #HealthyEatingGoals #TastyAtHome #FoodieInspiration 🍗🥢🍲
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Feel free to substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Packed with vitamins and fiber, broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright green color.
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper & 1/2 red bell pepper: These provide sweetness and vibrant colors, making the dish visually appealing.
- 1/2 cup baby carrots: Thinly sliced for a slightly sweet crunch.
- 2 tsp minced ginger & 2 garlic cloves, minced: These aromatics enhance the flavor profile with a warm, spicy kick.
Stir Fry Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tbsp corn starch & 2 tbsp cold water: This combination acts as a thickening agent, ensuring a glossy sauce that clings to the ingredients.
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory base to the sauce.
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce: The backbone of the sauce, providing saltiness and umami.
- 1/4 cup honey: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with sweetness.
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and authentic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Optional for a hint of heat.
Instructions
- Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together corn starch and water until smooth. This step ensures there are no lumps in the sauce.
- Add chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes to the mixture. Whisk until fully combined, then set aside.
Beginner Tip: Always mix the corn starch and water first before adding other liquids. This creates a “slurry” that will prevent clumping when heated.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Beginner Tip: To check if the chicken is fully cooked, cut into one piece—it should no longer be pink in the center.
- Cook the Vegetables
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Add the minced ginger and garlic to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Beginner Tip: Avoid overcooking the vegetables to maintain their crunch and vibrant color.
- Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Whisk the stir fry sauce one more time to ensure the corn starch hasn’t settled at the bottom, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables.
- Stir gently and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for about 1 minute, or until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
Beginner Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Chicken Stir Fry over steamed rice or chow mein noodles.
Notes
- Prepping Efficiently
- Chop all vegetables and measure ingredients before you start cooking. This keeps the process smooth and prevents overcooking.
- Avoiding Overcooking
- Stir fry recipes cook quickly, so keep a close eye on the ingredients. The vegetables should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Customizing Ingredients
- Swap out broccoli for snap peas or green beans if desired.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra variety.
- Kitchen Tools
- Use a large skillet or wok for even cooking and plenty of room to toss the ingredients.
- Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
A Personal Note on Chicken Stir Fry
When I first started cooking, Chicken Stir Fry was one of the first recipes I mastered. I loved how quick it was to prepare, especially on busy weeknights. It was also a great way to experiment with different vegetables and sauces without feeling overwhelmed. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, I could create a dish that was not only healthy but also satisfying for everyone at the table.
This recipe stands out because it’s a one-pan wonder that brings together vibrant vegetables, tender chicken, and a flavorful sauce. For beginners, it’s an excellent introduction to cooking techniques like sautéing, making sauces, and timing ingredients perfectly.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners
- Simplicity: With only a few steps, this recipe is easy to follow and hard to mess up.
- Time Efficiency: You can prepare and cook this dish in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Health Benefits: Loaded with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this stir fry is both nutritious and delicious.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
Ingredients and Preparation
Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients. Understanding what you’re working with will make the cooking process smoother.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Feel free to substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Packed with vitamins and fiber, broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright green color.
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper & 1/2 red bell pepper: These provide sweetness and vibrant colors, making the dish visually appealing.
- 1/2 cup baby carrots: Thinly sliced for a slightly sweet crunch.
- 2 tsp minced ginger & 2 garlic cloves, minced: These aromatics enhance the flavor profile with a warm, spicy kick.
Stir Fry Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tbsp corn starch & 2 tbsp cold water: This combination acts as a thickening agent, ensuring a glossy sauce that clings to the ingredients.
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory base to the sauce.
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce: The backbone of the sauce, providing saltiness and umami.
- 1/4 cup honey: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with sweetness.
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and authentic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Optional for a hint of heat.
Optional Pairings
- Rice or chow mein noodles: Serve alongside or underneath the stir fry to make it a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Chicken Stir Fry is all about timing and organization. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together corn starch and water until smooth. This step ensures there are no lumps in the sauce.
- Add chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes to the mixture. Whisk until fully combined, then set aside.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Cook the Vegetables
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Add the minced ginger and garlic to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Whisk the stir fry sauce one more time to ensure the corn starch hasn’t settled at the bottom, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables.
- Stir gently and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for about 1 minute, or until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Chicken Stir Fry over steamed rice or chow mein noodles.
Beginner Tips and Notes
- Prepping Efficiently
- Chop all vegetables and measure ingredients before you start cooking. This keeps the process smooth and prevents overcooking.
- Avoiding Overcooking
- Stir fry recipes cook quickly, so keep a close eye on the ingredients. The vegetables should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Customizing Ingredients
- Swap out broccoli for snap peas or green beans if desired.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra variety.
- Kitchen Tools
- Use a large skillet or wok for even cooking and plenty of room to toss the ingredients.
- Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
While Chicken Stir Fry is delightful on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle fragrance pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the stir fry.
- Chow Mein Noodles: Tossed lightly in sesame oil for an authentic touch.
- Side Salad: A light cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing complements the dish beautifully.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Chicken Stir Fry is more than just a recipe—it’s an opportunity to build confidence in the kitchen. The step-by-step process, beginner-friendly tips, and versatile nature of the dish make it an excellent starting point for those new to cooking. Plus, the vibrant colors, bold flavors, and health benefits ensure it’s a meal you’ll want to revisit time and time again.
Engage and Share
Have you tried this Chicken Stir Fry recipe? Share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added in the comments below! Cooking is all about exploration, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or spices. Let’s make this journey into cooking a shared adventure!