Looking for a quick meal packed with flavor? This Garlic Herb Chicken Stir Fry is just what you need! With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty sauce, you can whip up a tasty dish in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips to make it even better. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy recipe that’s perfect for busy nights! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
List of main ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
In this recipe, the chicken serves as the main protein. I use fresh garlic to add a robust flavor. The vegetables bring color and crunch, making the dish more appealing.
Optional ingredients
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– Additional fresh herbs for presentation
The oyster sauce adds a sweet and savory touch. Presentation herbs like extra parsley or thyme can make the dish pop visually.
Serving suggestions
– Cooked jasmine rice
– Quinoa
I suggest serving this stir fry over jasmine rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the sauce well and make the meal more filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation steps
– Coating the chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips. In a bowl, mix the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken until it is fully coated. This step helps create a nice texture when you cook it.
– Prepping the vegetables
Next, wash and cut the vegetables. Slice the red bell pepper, and wash the broccoli florets. Rinse the snap peas too. Make sure you have everything ready to go. This will make cooking quick and easy.
Cooking the stir fry
– Sautéing chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes. The chicken should brown nicely and be cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
– Adding garlic and vegetables
In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Then, add the broccoli, red bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. You want the vegetables to be bright and tender-crisp.
Combining and finishing touches
– Adding sauces and herbs
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, if you are using it. Toss everything together to coat evenly. This adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
– Serving recommendations
Sprinkle chopped parsley and thyme over the stir fry. Stir everything for another minute until it is heated through. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the garlic herb chicken stir fry over cooked jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking tips
To make a great stir-fry, start hot. Heat your skillet or wok until it sizzles. This helps brown the chicken, giving it a nice texture.
For tender chicken, coat the strips in cornstarch. This keeps them juicy and soft. Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
Flavor enhancement
Fresh herbs boost the dish’s flavor. Use parsley and thyme for a fresh taste. Chop them finely and add them at the end for the best flavor.
Adjust seasoning as you cook. Taste your stir-fry and add more salt or pepper if needed. This makes sure every bite is packed with flavor.
Time-saving suggestions
Prep your veggies ahead of time. Chop broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas in advance. Store them in the fridge for easy access.
Quick meal prep makes cooking easier. You can coat the chicken and chop herbs the night before. This way, you can whip up your stir-fry in no time.
Variations
Protein alternatives
You can swap chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu.
– Beef: Use thin slices of flank steak. Cook until brown, about 4-5 minutes.
– Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp. They cook quick, about 2-3 minutes.
– Tofu: Use firm tofu, cut into cubes. Sauté until golden, about 5-6 minutes.
Vegetable substitutions
Feel free to mix in other veggies you enjoy.
– Carrots: Slice them thin for quick cooking.
– Zucchini: Cut into half-moons for added color.
– Mushrooms: Use button or shiitake mushrooms for umami flavor.
Dietary modifications
You can easily make this dish fit your diet.
– Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
– Low-carb: Skip rice or quinoa and serve over cauliflower rice.
– Paleo: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a tasty twist.
Storage Info
Storing leftovers
Store your garlic herb chicken stir fry in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three to four days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture build-up.
Reheating tips
The best way to reheat your stir fry is on the stove. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to keep it moist. Stir it often for even heating. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a lid or a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring between each burst.
Freezing options
You can freeze the stir fry for later. Use a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove all air before sealing. Label it with the date. It will stay good for about two to three months. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave to thaw it quickly. Once thawed, reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
What is the best way to prevent chicken from becoming tough?
To keep chicken tender, use cornstarch. Coating the chicken strips with cornstarch helps lock in moisture. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for just 4-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry it out. Letting the chicken rest before serving also helps keep it juicy.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. They are convenient and quick to prepare. Just remember to thaw them first to ensure even cooking. Frozen veggies may not be as crisp as fresh ones, but they still taste great. Use a mix of your favorites for a colorful dish.
How do I make the stir fry spicier?
To add heat, include red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers. You can also use spicy sauces like Sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. This way, you can adjust the spice level to your liking.
What should I serve with Garlic Herb Chicken Stir Fry?
I recommend serving this stir fry over jasmine rice or quinoa. These grains soak up the sauce well and create a nice base. You can also add a side salad for extra crunch. Try a simple cucumber salad with a splash of vinegar for a refreshing touch.
In this blog post, we discussed how to make a tasty Garlic Herb Chicken Stir Fry. We looked at key ingredients like chicken and fresh vegetables, plus sauces to boost flavor. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions to make this dish easy. You learned valuable tips for perfecting your stir fry and ways to customize it with different proteins and veggies.
Remember, cooking should be fun and creative. Use what you enjoy to make this dish your own!
