Name: Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 tablespoon baking soda (For tenderizing the chicken); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (For seasoning); 1 tablespoon corn starch (Helps thicken the sauce); 2 tablespoons cold water (To mix with corn starch); 1/4 cup chicken broth (Adds depth to the sauce); 1/4 cup honey (For sweetness); 3 tablespoons soy sauce (Umami flavor base); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (For nutty aroma); 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (Optional, adds heat); 2 tablespoons olive oil (Divided for sautéing); 2 cups broccoli florets (Cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 each bell pepper (Stemmed, seeded, cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 each carrots (Sliced into 1/4-inch pieces); 1 small onion (Peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 cloves garlic (Minced); 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger (For zesty flavor); Green onions (Thinly sliced, for garnish); Cooked rice or cooked noodles (For serving)

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful meal that packs a nutritious punch, look no further than this Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up this meal in no time. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is not just another average stir fry; it’s a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is marinated for tenderness and flavor, while the colorful mix of vegetables ensures you’re getting a healthy serving of nutrients. The sweet and savory sauce, enriched with honey and soy sauce, brings everything together beautifully. Not to mention, it’s versatile enough to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delicious stir fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into 1-inch cubes for quick cooking.
1 tablespoon baking soda – This will help tenderize the chicken (see note 1).
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – For seasoning.
1 tablespoon corn starch – Helps thicken the sauce.
2 tablespoons cold water – To mix with the corn starch.
1/4 cup chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce.
1/4 cup honey – For a touch of sweetness.
3 tablespoons soy sauce – The umami flavor base.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil – For a nutty aroma.
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional) – Adds a touch of heat.
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided – For sautéing.
2 cups broccoli florets – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
1 bell pepper – Stemmed, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces for color and crunch.
2 carrots – Sliced into 1/4-inch pieces on a bias for a beautiful presentation.
1 small onion – Peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces for sweetness.
2 cloves garlic – Minced for an aromatic kick.
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger – For a zesty flavor (see note 2).
Green onions – Thinly sliced, for garnish.
Cooked rice or cooked noodles (such as chow mein) – For serving.

Prep & Cook Tools

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

Cutting board – For chopping your veggies and chicken.
Sharp knife – For clean and precise cuts.
Wok or large skillet – Ideal for stir frying, allowing for even heat distribution.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and tossing the ingredients.
Mixing bowl – To marinate the chicken and mix the sauce.

From Start to Finish: Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking with these easy steps:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with baking soda, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and soft.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together corn starch with cold water until smooth. Add the chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and red chili flakes (if using). Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken 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 it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and cook for 1-2 minutes until it starts to become translucent. Then, add the broccoli, bell pepper, carrots, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for approximately 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and everything to meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your delicious stir fry over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Enjoy your homemade Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe with family or friends!

Ingredient Flex Options

Feel free to customize this stir fry to suit your taste or to use what you have on hand:

Protein Swap: Use shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
Veggie Variations: Swap in your favorite vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Sweetener Alternatives: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey.
Sauce Adjustments: Add a splash of rice vinegar for tang or a dash of fish sauce for additional umami.

Behind the Recipe

This Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe was inspired by the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine that can be found in bustling street markets. The combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a sweet-savory sauce is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge. Cooking this dish is a chance to experiment and explore new flavors while keeping it healthy and satisfying.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your stir fry fresh and delicious:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time on busy nights.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen vegetables in this stir fry?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can be used in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the stir fry.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, try using tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce. You can also include sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to make it vegetarian or vegan.

Bring It to the Table

Gather your family or friends around the table and serve this Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe with pride. Not only will they enjoy a meal bursting with flavor, but you’ll also love how easy it is to prepare. This dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation, offering comfort and satisfaction every time. So grab your wok, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy a delightful evening filled with delicious food and laughter!