Easy Chicken Stir Fry

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot, julienned or sliced thin
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, and cornstarch (if using). Add the water or chicken broth and set the sauce aside.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with a little salt and pepper, 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: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic, ginger, onion, bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.
  4. Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, and stir to coat everything evenly. If you used cornstarch, the sauce should thicken quickly.
  5. Serve: Serve the stir fry over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and crunch.

Notes:

  • You can add other vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini based on what you have on hand.
  • If you like a little spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili to the stir fry.
  • You can easily make this gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • For a quicker meal, use pre-cut vegetables from the grocery store.

Nutrition (per serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 14g