Discover a delicious and simple way to enjoy a wholesome meal with this Sesame Vegetable Chicken Stir-Fry. This recipe offers a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy chicken skillet recipes, perfect for busy weeknights. You will love how quickly this flavorful dish comes together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers. Feel free to use snap peas, green beans, or zucchini.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best. You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
- Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil for maximum flavor.
- Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is always preferred for the best taste.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced, for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1/4 cup water
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 15-20 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies with ingredients)
- Tools needed: Large skillet or wok
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by cutting your chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. Chop all your vegetables and mince the garlic and ginger. This preparation ensures a smooth cooking process.
2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Set this sauce aside. This will be added at the end to thicken your stir-fry.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the broccoli, carrots, and bell pepper, and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
5. Combine and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Give the prepared sauce a quick whisk again, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats everything, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve Your Stir-Fry
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious healthy chicken skillet recipes creation!
Variation Ideas
- Add different vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For extra protein, add some edamame to the stir-fry.
- Replace chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Storage Instructions
You can store any leftover Sesame Vegetable Chicken Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you make this stir-fry ahead of time?
You can chop all the vegetables and prepare the sauce a day in advance. Cook the chicken and vegetables fresh for the best texture.
What can you serve with this stir-fry?
This stir-fry pairs perfectly with brown rice, white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Can you use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen stir-fry vegetable mixes. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water to avoid a watery stir-fry.
How do you make the sauce thicker?
The cornstarch in the recipe helps to thicken the sauce. Ensure you whisk it well before adding to prevent lumps.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Ensure all other ingredients, like the cornstarch, are certified gluten-free.
What kind of skillet is best for stir-frying?
A large wok or a non-stick skillet with high sides works best for stir-frying. This allows you to toss the ingredients easily without spilling.