Craving a delicious and wholesome meal that’s ready in a flash? This Thai Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, healthy chicken recipe that satisfies. You’ll love how quickly this vibrant dish comes together, making it perfect for any weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: You can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Peanut Butter: Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter. Almond butter works as a good alternative.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free options.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite stir-fry friendly vegetables like broccoli or snap peas.
- Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa, for serving
- Chopped peanuts, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 (without rice)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, whisk, cutting board, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Sauce
Combine peanut butter, warm water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and grated ginger in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
2. 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 browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the red bell pepper, shredded carrots, green beans, and onion. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger with the vegetables. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Combine and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything gently to coat evenly.
6. Serve Your Healthy Chicken Recipe
Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. Serve immediately over brown rice or quinoa, garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro if desired.
Variation Ideas
- Add a squeeze of lime juice at the end for extra brightness.
- Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the very end until just wilted.
- For extra crunch, toss in some roasted cashews.
- Make it vegetarian by using firm tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Thai Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop your vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe spicy?
The sriracha adds a mild kick. You can adjust the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer no spice.
What kind of peanut butter should I use?
Use natural, unsweetened creamy peanut butter for the best flavor and texture in your sauce.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli florets, snap peas, and sliced mushrooms are excellent additions to this healthy chicken recipe.
How do I get the chicken to be tender?
Avoid overcooking the chicken. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink to keep it tender and juicy.
What can I serve with this stir-fry?
Brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice are perfect accompaniments for this flavorful dish.