Ultimate Guide to Basic Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a staple in many households for its simplicity, versatility, and nutritional benefits. We present an in-depth guide that will not only make your stir-fry delicious but also ensure it stands out with rich flavors and textures.

Ingredients for a Perfect Stir-Fry

Essential Ingredients

• Chicken: 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
• Vegetables:
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup snow peas
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 1 small zucchini, sliced
• Aromatics:
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 3 green onions, sliced
• Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
• Oils:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil for finishing

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken remains tender and flavorful during cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all the vegetables as specified. It is crucial to keep the sizes uniform to ensure even cooking. Having all ingredients ready before you start cooking is key to a successful stir-fry.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture. Adjust sweetness with honey or brown sugar if desired. This sauce will bring all the flavors together.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add the remaining vegetable oil. Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the vegetables starting with those that take the longest to cook (carrots and broccoli), then add the bell pepper, snow peas, and zucchini. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the wok. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well-coated and heated through. Drizzle with sesame oil and toss to combine.

Tips for the Best Stir-Fry

• High Heat Cooking: Use high heat to achieve the signature sear and flavor.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: This helps in quick, even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables maintain their crunch and color better.

  Nutritional Information

  Per Serving (Approximate)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg

  Conclusion

  Creating a flavorful and nutritious chicken and vegetable stir-fry is straightforward with the right ingredients and technique. This dish not only provides a balanced meal but also caters to various dietary preferences by allowing modifications. Enjoy the rich flavors and the health benefits that come with this timeless recipe.