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Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

This vibrant vegetable and chicken stir-fry is an easy-to-make dish that combines a variety of fresh vegetables with tender chicken in a flavorful sauce. It's a recipe that showcases the best of what a stir-fry can offer - quick cooking time, fresh ingredients, and a harmony of flavors and textures.

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Photos of Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

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Some of the ingredients may not be readily available in a typical home kitchen. Asian fish sauce, Sambal Oelek, Hoisin Sauce, and oyster sauce are commonly found in the Asian section of a supermarket. Mung bean sprouts are usually kept in the produce department, while fresh basil leaves and lime are common but ensure they are fresh for enhancing the flavor.

Ingredients for Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry

Canola oil: This oil is used for stir-frying as it has a high smoke point and mild flavor.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.

Chicken thighs: Preferred for their flavor and tenderness in stir-fries.

Asian fish sauce: Adds a layer of umami flavor.

Broccoli: Adds crunch and is a great source of vitamins.

Celery rib: Provides a distinctive crunch and flavor.

Snow peas: These are sweet and add a bright color.

Garlic: Adds a robust flavor.

Fresh ginger: Provides a spicy, aromatic note.

Sambal Oelek: This is a spicy Indonesian chili paste.

Hoisin sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce.

Oyster sauce: Gives a deep, savory flavor.

Mung bean sprouts: Adds a fresh crunch.

Basil leaves: Provides a fresh, peppery taste.

Fresh lime juice: Brightens up the flavors.

Jasmine rice: Served alongside the stir-fry, it soaks up the sauce beautifully.

One reader, Brietta Larson says:

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This vegetable and chicken stir-fry recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the dish is incredibly easy to make. The combination of fresh veggies and tender chicken is simply delightful. It's now a regular in my dinner rotation. Highly recommend trying it out!

Brietta Larson

Essential Techniques for Making Stir-Fry

How to stir-fry chicken and vegetables: This technique involves cooking small pieces of chicken and various vegetables in a wok over high heat, using a quick and constant stirring motion to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.

How to julienne vegetables: This technique involves cutting vegetables into thin, matchstick-like strips. For this recipe, you can julienne the celery and snow peas for a uniform appearance and quick cooking.

How to prepare jasmine rice: Jasmine rice should be rinsed under cold water until the water runs clear, then cooked in a pot with the appropriate amount of water, following the package instructions, until tender and fluffy.

How To Make Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry

Boneless chicken and crunchy veggies are stir-fried in a sweet and spicy sauce for a mouthwatering vegetable and chicken combo that’s paired with rice.

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

  • ¼cupcanola oil
  • 1medium onion,halved and thinly sliced
  • ½lbchicken thighs,skinless, boneless, cut into thin strips
  • 1tbspAsian fish sauce
  • 1headsmall broccoli
  • 1celery rib,thinly sliced
  • 4ozsnow peas,(1½ cups)
  • 1clovegarlic,thinly sliced
  • 1tbspfresh ginger,minced
  • 1tspsambal oelek,or Chinese chile garlic sauce
  • 1tbsphoisin sauce
  • 1tbspoyster sauce
  • 1cupmung bean sprouts
  • 2tbspbasil leaves,shredded
  • 1tbspfresh lime juice
  • jasmine rice,steamed

Instructions

  1. Heat a wok until very hot. Add 2 tablespoons of the canola oil and when it is nearly smoking, add the sliced onion and chicken strips. Stir-fry over high heat for about 3 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned in spots but not cooked through.

  2. Add the fish sauce and stir-fry for 10 seconds. Scrape the chicken onto a medium plate and wipe out the wok.

  3. Heat the remaining oil in the wok. Add the broccoli, celery, snow peas, garlic, and ginger and stir-fry over high heat for 3 to 4 minutes until crisp-tender. Return the chicken to the wok along with any accumulated juices.

  4. Add the sambal and hoisin and oyster sauces and stir-fry just for 3 to 4 minutes longer until the chicken is cooked through. Add the bean sprouts, basil, and lime juice and toss well.

  5. Transfer to a bowl and serve right away, with steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 333.22kcal
  • Fat: 23.79g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.68g
  • Trans Fat: 0.10g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 12.63g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.98g
  • Carbohydrates: 17.59g
  • Fiber: 5.01g
  • Sugar: 6.83g
  • Protein: 15.10g
  • Cholesterol: 55.69mg
  • Sodium: 644.98mg
  • Calcium: 92.63mg
  • Potassium: 676.62mg
  • Iron: 2.28mg
  • Vitamin A: 74.12µg
  • Vitamin C: 126.70mg

Crucial Technique for Perfect Stir-Fry Results

When stir-frying, it's important to keep the ingredients moving constantly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. This is especially crucial when working with high heat. Also, adding the ingredients in stages, as done in this vegetable and chicken stir-fry recipe, allows for each component to be cooked to its optimal texture. For instance, the chicken thighs are cooked first and then removed from the wok to prevent overcooking, while the vegetables are added later to maintain their crispness. Lastly, remember to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start, as stir-frying is a quick cooking method and there won't be time to chop or measure once you've started.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Stir-Fry

Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the chicken and vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pot cooking: Use a large wok or skillet to cook everything in one go, minimizing clean-up and saving time.

Quick-cooking proteins: Opt for thinly sliced chicken or other quick-cooking proteins to reduce cooking time.

Organized workspace: Ensure all ingredients and utensils are prepped and ready before starting to cook for a smoother process.

High heat: Cooking over high heat allows for quick cooking and helps retain the vibrant colors and crunch of the vegetables.

Substitute Ingredients For Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

  • canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a suitable substitute for canola oil as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for stir-frying.

  • chicken thighs - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a similar texture and protein content in the stir-fry.

  • asian fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce to add savory umami flavor to the stir-fry.

  • broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli, providing a similar texture and mild flavor in the stir-fry.

  • snow peas - Substitute with sugar snap peas: Sugar snap peas can be used as a substitute for snow peas, offering a similar crunch and sweetness to the stir-fry.

  • garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.

  • ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, offering a similar warm and spicy flavor to the stir-fry.

  • sambal oelek - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for sambal oelek to add heat and tangy flavor to the stir-fry.

  • hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce can be used as a substitute for hoisin sauce, providing a sweet and tangy flavor to the stir-fry.

  • oyster sauce - Substitute with soy sauce and a pinch of sugar: A combination of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar can be used as a substitute for oyster sauce to add depth of flavor to the stir-fry.

  • mung bean sprouts - Substitute with shredded cabbage: Shredded cabbage can be used as a substitute for mung bean sprouts, offering a similar crunchy texture and mild flavor in the stir-fry.

  • basil leaves - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for basil leaves, providing a fresh and aromatic herb flavor to the stir-fry.

  • jasmine rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice can be used as a substitute for jasmine rice, offering a nuttier flavor and higher fiber content.

Presentation Tips for a Delicious Stir-Fry

  1. Elevate the plating: Arrange the stir-fry in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.

  2. Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate colorful vegetables and herbs to add visual interest and create an appetizing and aesthetically pleasing dish.

  3. Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the stir-fry to stand out and captivate the diners' attention.

  4. Garnish with precision: Add a final touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with meticulously placed basil leaves and bean sprouts to enhance the overall presentation.

  5. Balance and symmetry: Strive for balance and symmetry in the arrangement of the stir-fry components, creating a visually harmonious and elegant presentation.

  6. Attention to detail: Pay close attention to every detail, ensuring that each element on the plate is thoughtfully placed and contributes to the overall visual appeal of the dish.

  7. Plate with finesse: Approach the plating process with finesse and precision, ensuring that every aspect of the presentation reflects the culinary artistry and attention to detail.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stir-Fry

  • Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used for stir-frying, steaming, pan-frying, and more in Asian cooking.
  • Canola oil: A neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, ideal for stir-frying and sautéing.
  • Knife: Essential for slicing and dicing ingredients like onions, chicken, and vegetables.
  • Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Asian fish sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the stir-fry.
  • Spatula: Used for stirring and tossing ingredients in the wok.
  • Garlic press: Optional tool for easily mincing garlic.
  • Grater: Useful for grating fresh ginger.
  • Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring out small amounts of ingredients like sambal oelek, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce.
  • Wok spatula: Specifically designed for stir-frying in a wok, with a long handle and curved edge for easy tossing and flipping.
  • Rice cooker: For cooking jasmine rice to serve alongside the stir-fry.

Storing and Freezing Stir-Fry for Later

Here are the detailed instructions for storing and freezing vegetable and chicken stir-fry:

  • Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the food from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
  • For short-term storage, place the cooled stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the stir-fry in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
  • If you have leftover jasmine rice, store it separately from the stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Rice can become hard and dry when stored with other ingredients.
  • To freeze the stir-fry for longer storage, transfer the cooled mixture to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
  • Frozen stir-fry can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the stir-fry overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Reheat the thawed stir-fry in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the ingredients from sticking to the pan.
  • For best results, store the bean sprouts and basil leaves separately from the stir-fry, as they can become soggy and lose their texture when stored with the other ingredients. Add them to the reheated stir-fry just before serving for optimal freshness and crunch.

How To Reheat Stir-Fry Leftovers

  • Reheat in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or water to the pan, then add the leftover stir-fry. Stir frequently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes. This method helps to retain the texture of the vegetables and prevents the chicken from drying out.

  • For a quick and easy option, reheat the stir-fry in the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the vegetables to become mushy and the chicken to dry out.

  • If you have leftover rice, you can create a new dish by making fried rice. Heat some oil in a wok or large skillet, add the leftover rice, and stir-fry for a few minutes. Then, add the leftover vegetable and chicken stir-fry and continue to stir-fry until everything is heated through and well combined. You can also add some beaten eggs or additional soy sauce for extra flavor.

  • For a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the leftover stir-fry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables and chicken are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works well if you like your stir-fry with a bit of extra crunch.

  • If you have a steamer basket, you can reheat the stir-fry gently to preserve the texture and flavor. Bring a pot of water to a boil, place the leftover stir-fry in the steamer basket, and place it over the boiling water. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables and chicken are heated through. This method helps to retain the nutrients and vibrant colors of the vegetables.

Interesting Fact About Stir-Fry Dishes

The stir-fry recipe is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet, providing essential nutrients and fiber.

Is Making Stir-Fry at Home Cost-Effective?

This vegetable and chicken stir-fry recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken thighs, broccoli, and mung bean sprouts keeps the cost low. The dish offers a balance of protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious and economical choice. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, this recipe earns a solid 8 for its affordability and nutritional value.

Is This Stir-Fry Recipe Healthy?

This vegetable and chicken stir-fry recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes a variety of nutritious vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, and bean sprouts, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The use of lean chicken thighs as a protein source is also beneficial. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy ingredients, such as canola oil, which is high in omega-6 fatty acids and may contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess. Additionally, the use of oyster sauce and hoisin sauce adds sodium and sugar to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

  • Replace canola oil with a healthier cooking oil like avocado oil or coconut oil, which are more stable at high temperatures and have a better fatty acid profile
  • Reduce the amount of oyster sauce and hoisin sauce to lower the sodium and sugar content, or replace them with lower-sodium alternatives like coconut aminos or homemade sauces
  • Increase the proportion of vegetables to chicken to boost the nutrient density of the dish
  • Opt for organic, free-range chicken thighs to ensure higher quality protein and fewer potential contaminants
  • Serve the stir-fry with a side of cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of jasmine rice to reduce the carbohydrate content and add more fiber and nutrients to the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Stir-Fry Recipe

This vegetable and chicken stir-fry recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh ginger, garlic, and basil adds a wonderful aromatic dimension, while the combination of hoisin and oyster sauces provides a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. The addition of lime juice at the end brightens up the dish beautifully. The cooking method ensures that the vegetables retain their crispness, and the chicken is tender and flavorful. This dish is a perfect example of a well-executed stir-fry, and the inclusion of jasmine rice makes it a satisfying and complete meal.

Enhance Your Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty herb dressing before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Tender strips of beef and crisp broccoli florets are stir-fried in a savory sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
Mango Coconut Popsicles: Blend fresh mango with creamy coconut milk and freeze into refreshing popsicles for a tropical dessert treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Stir-Fry

Appetizers:
Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.
Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant caprese skewers, featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze. A refreshing and colorful start to any gathering.
Desserts:
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of chicken and a colorful array of vegetables, ensuring a satisfying and nutritious meal. The use of fresh ginger and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavors, while the addition of hoisin sauce and oyster sauce provides a delightful umami depth. The inclusion of basil leaves and lime juice adds a refreshing and zesty touch, enhancing the overall taste experience. With a balanced blend of flavors and textures, this stir-fry promises to be a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire.

If you're looking for more delicious and healthy meal ideas like this Vegetable and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe, be sure to check out the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of oil for this stir-fry recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of oil such as vegetable oil or peanut oil if you prefer. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still work well for the stir-fry.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu, shrimp, beef, or even just a variety of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein or vegetables you choose.
Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time, such as cutting the vegetables and marinating the chicken. However, I recommend cooking and assembling the stir-fry just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for fish sauce if I don't have it on hand?
If you don't have fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce mixed with a splash of Worcestershire sauce. It won't be exactly the same, but it will add a similar depth of flavor to the dish.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this stir-fry?
Absolutely! You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sambal oelek according to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

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