Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry is a flavorful, balanced meal that combines protein, vegetables, and a tasty sauce, all cooked in one pan. The marinated chicken is tender and juicy, while the vegetables retain their crispness, making each bite satisfying. With the prep done ahead of time, it’s an easy dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s customizable—feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add extra seasonings to make it your own!
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
Directions
- Prep Veggies: Chop the bell peppers, onions, and broccoli in advance, storing them in airtight containers to keep them fresh until ready to use.
- Marinate Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into strips and marinate them in soy sauce and minced garlic. Let them sit in the fridge overnight for the best flavor.
- Stir-Fry: When you’re ready to cook, heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Add Veggies: Add the prepped vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for another 5 minutes, until the veggies are tender-crisp. Optionally, drizzle sesame oil over the stir-fry for added flavor.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry over a bed of cooked rice, and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on portion size.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time, ideally overnight).
- Cook Time: 10 minutes.
- Total Time: 25 minutes (excluding marinating time).
Variations
- Different Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms for a unique twist.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes, chili sauce, or fresh chili for some heat.
- Sauce: For a richer sauce, add a little honey or brown sugar to the marinade or stir in some hoisin sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables and chicken may soften slightly over time, but it’ll still be delicious!
- Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables for this stir-fry?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a great substitute, especially when you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking.
Can I marinate the chicken for less time?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for 30 minutes can still yield a flavorful result.
Can I make this stir-fry without soy sauce?
Yes! You can use coconut aminos or a low-sodium soy sauce alternative if you’re watching your sodium intake.
How do I make this stir-fry gluten-free?
Simply swap regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Be sure to check all other ingredients for gluten as well.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in separate airtight containers. Just stir-fry when you’re ready to eat!
Can I add more protein?
Absolutely! You can add shrimp, beef, or tofu for additional protein. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make the stir-fry more saucy?
If you prefer a saucier stir-fry, you can add a bit more soy sauce or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water) to thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! This stir-fry holds up well for meal prep. Simply store the chicken, veggies, and rice in separate containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
What can I serve this stir-fry with?
Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. You can also add a side of egg rolls or dumplings for a more filling meal.
Can I use other oils for stir-frying?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or any high-heat oil in place of olive oil. Sesame oil is great for adding flavor but is optional.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and customizable dish that’s perfect for busy nights. By prepping ingredients in advance, you can have a flavorful meal ready in just 10 minutes. With the option to swap in different vegetables or proteins, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this stir-fry will hit the spot every time!
