Chicken Stir Fry

### Instructions for Making Chicken Stir Fry

This recipe comes together quickly, and the process is simple. Here’s how to prepare this delicious chicken stir fry:

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Sauce**
1. **Mix the sauce**: In a small bowl, whisk together the **soy sauce**, **oyster sauce**, **hoisin sauce**, **rice vinegar**, **sesame oil**, and **honey** (if using). For a thicker sauce, dissolve **cornstarch** in **cold water** and add it to the mix.
2. **Set aside**: Once the sauce is fully combined, set it aside while you prepare the stir fry.

#### **Step 2: Cook the Chicken**
1. **Heat the pan**: In a large skillet or wok, heat the **olive oil** (or vegetable oil) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced **chicken** and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. You may need to cook the chicken in batches if your pan isn’t large enough to fit all the chicken at once.
2. **Remove the chicken**: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

#### **Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**
1. **Stir fry the veggies**: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the **onion**, **bell pepper**, **carrot**, and **broccoli**. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
2. **Add garlic and ginger**: Add the **garlic** and **grated ginger** (if using) to the pan, and stir fry for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

#### **Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce**
1. **Return chicken to the pan**: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan with the vegetables.
2. **Add the sauce**: Pour the prepared stir fry sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
3. **Simmer**: Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken and veggies.

#### **Step 5: Garnish and Serve**
1. **Garnish**: If desired, sprinkle with **sesame seeds**, **chopped green onions**, and a pinch of **red chili flakes** for some heat and extra flavor.
2. **Serve**: Serve your chicken stir fry with a side of steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa. Enjoy it as a complete meal or serve with a light side salad for a more balanced dinner.

### Tips for Perfect Chicken Stir Fry

– **Use fresh or frozen vegetables**: Stir fry is a great way to use up fresh veggies you have in the fridge. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables for a more convenient option—just thaw them beforehand.

– **Don’t overcrowd the pan**: If you’re cooking for a larger group, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and cooking. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, which affects the texture.

– **Use high heat**: Stir fry cooking is all about high heat, which helps the ingredients cook quickly while retaining their texture and flavor. A **wok** is ideal for stir frying because of its high, sloped sides, but a **large skillet** works just fine too.

– **Customize the veggies**: If you’re not a fan of certain vegetables, you can easily substitute with what you have on hand. **Snap peas, mushrooms, baby corn, or zucchini** would all be great alternatives.

– **Add a bit of heat**: For those who enjoy a spicier dish, try adding some **sriracha** or **chili paste** to the sauce for an extra kick.

– **Make it low-carb**: For a lower-carb version, serve the stir fry over **cauliflower rice** or enjoy it on its own without any rice or noodles.

### Why You’ll Love Chicken Stir Fry

1. **Quick and easy**: This recipe takes just 25-30 minutes to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead.

2. **Customizable**: You can mix and match the vegetables and protein to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this stir fry works with just about anything.

3. **Packed with flavor**: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil creates a deliciously savory, umami-packed sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and crisp vegetables.

4. **Healthy and balanced**: With lean chicken, plenty of vegetables, and a light, homemade sauce, this dish is a healthy option that’s full of nutrients and flavor without being heavy or greasy.

5. **Family-friendly**: This chicken stir fry is a great dish for families, as it’s easy to make and everyone will enjoy the savory, comforting flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters!

### Conclusion

**Chicken Stir Fry** is the ultimate quick and easy meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or nutrition. With its combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory stir fry sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Plus, it’s versatile and customizable, so you can make it your own with your favorite veggies, protein, and level of spice. Give this recipe a try for a delicious, weeknight-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor!