Introduction
This delicious stir-fry recipe features tender, diced chicken combined with vibrant vegetables and crunchy peanuts, all coated in a savory sauce. Perfect over rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken, diced into 1-inch cubes
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 egg
2 tablespoons oil
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
⅓ cup dry roasted peanuts
Sauce Ingredients:
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
This stir-fry recipe is not only easy to make but also customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein options. Enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with salt and cornstarch, mixing well to coat evenly. Add the egg and mix thoroughly until the chicken pieces are fully coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until browned on one side. Flip and stir the chicken, cooking until it is fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the red bell pepper and zucchini, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. After cooking, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the sliced green onions and stir-fry for about one minute. Then, add the minced garlic and peanuts, continuing to stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavors.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, red wine vinegar, water, and cornstarch, stirring to mix until smooth. Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes clear.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Return the cooked chicken and stir-fried vegetables to the skillet, stirring well to coat them evenly with the sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the dish over rice or as preferred.
Notes
Chicken Preparation
Make sure the chicken is cut into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Oil Temperature
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear.
Vegetable Cooking Time
Adjust cooking time based on your preference for the tenderness of the vegetables.
Adjusting Sauce Thickness
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water; if too thin, let it cook a bit longer to thicken.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a heartier meal.
Cook techniques
Coating Chicken with Cornstarch
Coating the diced chicken with cornstarch helps create a light, crispy texture when cooked. This technique also helps to lock in moisture and flavor.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is a quick cooking method using high heat and minimal oil. It allows vegetables and proteins to maintain their color, texture, and nutrients while developing a rich flavor.
Thickening Sauce
To thicken the sauce, cornstarch is combined with liquid ingredients. This creates a glossy texture that coats the chicken and vegetables, enhancing the overall dish.
Layering Flavors
Building flavors by cooking ingredients in stages—starting with proteins followed by vegetables and aromatics—ensures that each component of the dish contributes to a harmonious overall flavor profile.
Combining Ingredients
Returning the cooked chicken and vegetables to the skillet during the last step allows all ingredients to meld together, ensuring that everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before dicing, and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute if red wine vinegar is unavailable.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan for a vegetarian option.
What if I prefer more vegetables?
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas according to your preference.
How can I adjust the heat level of the dish?
To increase the heat, add more crushed red pepper or include spicy ingredients like sriracha. To reduce heat, decrease the amount of crushed red pepper or omit it entirely.
Conclusion
This dish features a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and crunchy peanuts all enveloped in a flavorful sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also offers a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and taste. Serve it over rice or your preferred grain for a complete and nutritious dinner that your family will love.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with adding broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and color in your dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option, perfect for varying dietary preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try incorporating cooked quinoa instead of rice as a base for a healthier grain alternative.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair the dish with a side of steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a light option.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add sesame oil and sesame seeds for a nutty flavor profile to enhance the Asian-inspired theme of this dish.
