One of my favorite quick, tasty, and budget-friendly recipes is a classic stir-fried chicken with vegetables. It’s not only easy to prepare but also allows for plenty of customization based on what you have in your pantry. Here’s a simple way to make it:
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch (2.5cm) piece fresh ginger, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup (150g) broccoli florets
1 medium carrot, julienned
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles (optional)
Instructions:
Prep the Ingredients: Start by slicing the chicken into thin strips and preparing the vegetables. This helps ensure everything cooks quickly and evenly.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the pan. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-6 minutes.
Add Vegetables: Toss in the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
Season and Serve: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are fully coated. Cook for another minute. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
This dish is versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite vegetables or add extras like sliced onions or mushrooms. The combination of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and flavorful sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s easy on the pocket and quick to prepare in under 30 minutes.