Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

This Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is a perfect choice for a quick and flavorful meal that can fit into any busy schedule. With tender slices of chicken and a colorful medley of vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious! It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or as a delightful shareable dish at gatherings. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with sides like egg fried rice or shrimp lo mein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a savory sauce that enhances the overall taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize the dish.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, this stir fry is a wholesome option for any meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as everything cooks in one pan, saving you time on washing up.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying as they allow for high heat and even cooking across all ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Essential for quickly slicing chicken and chopping vegetables to uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help ensure accurate ingredient quantities which are crucial for achieving the right flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 20 ounces skinless boneless chicken breast (cut into ¼ inch slices (about 2 chicken breasts))
• 3 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt (fine salt is okay too)
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For the Sauce

• ¾ cup water
• 2½ tablespoons regular soy sauce
• 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional for color)
• 1 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

For the Vegetables

• 1 pound mixed vegetables of your choice
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced (about 2-3 cloves))
• 1 tablespoon ginger (peeled and minced (about 1 inch knob))
• Oil (as needed for cooking (any neutral oil))

How to Make Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breast into thin slices. In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with water, Kosher salt, baking soda, and cornstarch. Mix well until the chicken is coated evenly.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, granulated sugar, chicken bouillon powder if using, dark soy sauce if desired, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add more oil if necessary. Toss in garlic and ginger; sauté briefly until fragrant. Then add mixed vegetables. Stir-fry until they are tender yet crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly and allow it to cook together for another few minutes until heated through.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry! This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also provides an easy way to get your daily veggies in one satisfying dish.

How to Serve Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

Serving chicken with mixed vegetable stir fry is both fun and versatile. You can customize your plate according to personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are some exciting ways to serve this delicious dish.

With Egg Fried Rice

• Egg fried rice adds a savory, satisfying element that pairs perfectly with the stir fry. The fluffy eggs and rice soak up the flavors beautifully.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the stir fry over cooked noodles like lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty meal. The noodles will catch the sauce, enhancing each bite.

Wrapped in Lettuce Leaves

• For a fresh twist, spoon the stir fry into crisp lettuce leaves. This option is light and refreshing, perfect for warm days.

Accompanied by Steamed Rice

• Plain steamed rice is a classic side that balances the bold flavors of the stir fry. It’s easy to prepare and complements the dish well.

With a Side Salad

• A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette can lighten up your meal. The crunchiness of fresh vegetables contrasts nicely with the stir fry.

Topped with Cashews or Peanuts

• Add a sprinkle of roasted cashews or peanuts on top for extra crunch and richness. They provide a delightful texture that enhances your dining experience.

How to Perfect Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

To ensure your chicken with mixed vegetable stir fry turns out fantastic every time, here are some essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and chicken make all the difference in taste. Opt for seasonal produce for vibrant flavors.

• Cut Chicken Uniformly: Slice your chicken into even pieces to ensure even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.

• Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan is crucial for achieving that perfect stir-fry texture. It helps in searing the chicken quickly, locking in juices.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, affecting the dish’s overall texture.

• Add Sauce at Right Time: Pouring in your sauce too early can lead to sogginess. Wait until everything is nearly cooked before adding it for maximum flavor.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to mix various veggies according to what you have on hand. This keeps the dish interesting and nutritious.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

Complement your chicken with mixed vegetable stir fry by adding tasty sides that enhance your meal’s flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic side that infuses additional flavors into your meal, making it more filling and satisfying.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits while balancing out richer flavors.

3. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles bring a nutty flavor that pairs well with the savory stir fry.

4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls add crunch and variety, making them an appealing starter or side dish.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs elevates nutritional value while providing a refreshing contrast.

6. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed lightly offers a crisp texture that balances warmth from the stir fry.

7. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter that complements Asian-inspired dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Even a quick 15-minute marinade enhances taste.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken or vegetables at once can steam instead of stir-fry. Cook in batches for better results.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold chicken or vegetables will lower pan temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Always use ingredients at room temperature.
• Neglecting High Heat: Stir-fries need high heat for that perfect sear and crisp texture. Ensure your pan is hot before adding ingredients.
• Ignoring Freshness: Using wilted or old vegetables will compromise flavor and nutrition. Choose fresh produce for vibrant colors and tastes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry.

How long does it take to make Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry?

It takes about 25 minutes from prep to plate, making it a quick weeknight meal option.

Can I customize the vegetables in Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal or favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added variety.

What can I serve with Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry?

This dish pairs well with egg fried rice or shrimp lo mein, but you can also enjoy it solo or over quinoa for a healthier twist.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry stores well and retains its flavor even after refrigerating or freezing.

Final Thoughts

Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it according to your taste preferences by varying the vegetables and sauces used. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!