Introduction
This delicious chicken stir-fry is a quick and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it can be served over rice or enjoyed on its own. The incorporation of dry roasted peanuts adds a delightful crunch, making this dish not only tasty but also exciting to eat.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken, diced into 1-inch cubes
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 egg
– Vegetables
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Others
2 tablespoons oil
⅓ cup dry roasted peanuts
– Sauce
¼ cup sliced green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 teaspoon powdered ginger
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
⅓ cup water
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine diced chicken, salt, and cornstarch; mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
Heat the Skillet
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it sizzles.
Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer; cook until browned on one side, then flip and stir until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
Set Aside the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Cook the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet; then add the red bell pepper and zucchini. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Green Onions
Add sliced green onions to the skillet; stir-fry for about one minute until fragrant.
Add Garlic and Peanuts
Add the minced garlic and dry roasted peanuts to the skillet; stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, red wine vinegar, water, cornstarch, crushed red pepper, and powdered ginger; stir to combine until smooth.
Add the Sauce to the Skillet
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet; stir until the sauce thickens and becomes clear, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Return the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the skillet; stir to coat everything with the sauce, cooking for an additional minute.
Serve
Remove from heat and serve the dish over rice or as preferred.
Notes
Chicken Preparation
Make sure the chicken is diced evenly for uniform cooking.
Vegetable Freshness
Choose fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
Adjusting Heat
Modify the amount of crushed red pepper to adjust the spice level to your preference.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a different take.
Cook techniques
Marinating Chicken
To enhance the flavor of the chicken, marinate it with salt and cornstarch before cooking. This helps in tenderizing the meat and makes it juicy.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is a fast cooking method that keeps vegetables crisp and vibrant. Use high heat and constant stirring for an even cook.
Thickening Sauces
To thicken sauces, combine cornstarch with water. This mixture will help achieve a glossy finish on your sauce while also binding the flavors together.
Cooking Chicken in Batches
When cooking chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
Using Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh ingredients contribute significantly to the taste and nutritional value of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables according to your preference, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and increase the amount of vegetables for a vegetarian version.
What can I serve this dish with?
This dish goes well with rice, noodles, or quinoa, providing a balanced meal.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper in the sauce or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator, but it’s best to mix them with the sauce just before serving to maintain their texture.
Conclusion
This delicious chicken stir-fry combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and a flavorful sauce, making it a quick and satisfying meal. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Replace zucchini with broccoli for a classic combination, adding in some additional soy sauce for more depth in flavor.
Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry
Swap chicken for cubed tofu for a vegetarian option. Marinate tofu in the sauce before cooking for enhanced flavor.
Shrimp and Vegetables
Use shrimp instead of chicken, cooking it for a shorter time until just pink, and combine with the vegetables for a seafood twist.
Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
Substitute peanuts with cashews for a nutty and creamy texture that complements the chicken beautifully.
Chicken Stir-Fry with Snow Peas
Incorporate snow peas for a touch of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color, pairing well with the other vegetables.
Vegetable-Only Stir-Fry
For a lighter option, omit the chicken and focus on adding a variety of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas.
Quinoa Chicken Bowl
Serve the chicken stir-fry over a bed of quinoa instead of rice for added protein and a nutty flavor.
Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper for a spicier kick or add some chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.
