High Protein Chicken Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delicious and nutritious meal packed with protein and fresh vegetables, perfect for any time of the week.
This High Protein Chicken Stir Fry is not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying. It's loaded with colorful veggies and lean chicken, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein to fuel your day
- Vibrant vegetables add color and crunch
- Quick and easy for busy weeknights
Nutritional Benefits
This High Protein Chicken Stir Fry is not only delicious but also offers an impressive nutritional profile. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it ideal for muscle repair and growth. Each serving provides essential amino acids that help keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the day.
In addition to the protein from chicken, this stir fry is loaded with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. These vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health, enhance immune function, and promote healthy skin.
Moreover, the inclusion of garlic and ginger adds flavor while offering anti-inflammatory properties. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that supports an active lifestyle, making it perfect for fitness enthusiasts and busy families alike.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stir Fry
To achieve the best results with your stir fry, consider the size of your vegetable and chicken pieces. Cutting them into uniform sizes ensures even cooking and enhances the dish's overall presentation. It’s also crucial to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as stir frying is a quick process.
For an extra depth of flavor, don’t be afraid to experiment with additional seasonings or sauces. A splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate your dish and provide a personalized touch. Just remember to add any strong flavors in moderation to avoid overpowering the dish.
Lastly, using a high heat and a non-stick skillet or wok will help you achieve that signature stir-fry sear, contributing to a delightful texture and taste. Keep the veggies moving in the pan to prevent burning and ensure they remain crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 500g chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy your stir fry with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal!
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine sliced chicken, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Add the Vegetables
Stir in the bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or quinoa.
Enjoy your healthy and flavorful chicken stir fry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other proteins in this stir fry? Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef according to your preference. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different proteins to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Is this stir fry gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari or coconut aminos. These options will provide a similar flavor without the gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Simply add a splash of water or broth to help steam the ingredients while they warm up.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stir fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the skillet.
→ What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
→ Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What type of rice pairs well with this recipe?
Brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa are great options to serve with the stir fry.
High Protein Chicken Stir Fry
A delicious and nutritious meal packed with protein and fresh vegetables, perfect for any time of the week.
Created by: Riley Dawson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stir Fry
- 500g chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine sliced chicken, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Stir in the bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or quinoa.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 36g