Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? This Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry is your answer! Packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a flavorful sauce, it takes just 30 minutes to make. Whether you’re pressed for time or want to impress guests, this dish fits any occasion. Let’s dive into the simple steps and tips that will make your stir fry a hit every time!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil creates a deliciously tangy and sweet teriyaki flavor.
- Colorful Veggies: With a variety of colorful vegetables, this stir fry is not only tasty but also visually appealing.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the vegetables or protein to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Vegetable Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
Additional Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
For a tasty Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry, these ingredients are key. The chicken breast provides a lean protein base. The soy sauce adds savory depth. Honey brings a hint of sweetness, while sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. Garlic and ginger add a fresh kick.
For the vegetables, broccoli florets offer crunch, and the red and yellow bell peppers add color and sweetness. Snow peas add snap. Overall, these ingredients create a vibrant, well-balanced dish.
The additional ingredients, like vegetable oil, help cook everything evenly. Cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it glossy and rich. Don't forget salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Finally, sesame seeds and green onions make great garnishes, adding texture and a pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
To start, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Mix these well. This blend forms a tasty teriyaki marinade.
Marinating the Chicken
Next, take your chicken breast and slice it into thin strips. Add the chicken to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This step infuses great flavor into the chicken.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and slightly caramelized. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Then, toss in your vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
Stir-fry these veggies for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp, keeping a bright color.
Combining Ingredients
Now, return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the cornstarch mixture, made by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This thickens the sauce and coats everything nicely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To get juicy chicken, marinate it well. I like to marinate for at least 20 minutes. This lets the flavors soak in. You can even marinate it overnight for a stronger taste. When you cook it, spread the chicken in a single layer. This helps it cook evenly. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. Look for a nice golden brown color. This shows it’s caramelized and ready.
Vegetable Cooking Tips
To keep your veggies bright and crisp, use high heat. I turn the stove to medium-high when I stir-fry. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas at once. Stir-fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them tender but still crunchy. This keeps their color and nutrients. Don't overcook them, or they will lose their snap.
Flavor Enhancements
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of rice vinegar. It gives a nice tang to the dish. You can also add a bit of chili paste if you like heat. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nutty crunch. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also brighten up the dish. Try these to make your Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry even better!
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness. For even better results, marinate it for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only add vibrant color but also boost the nutritional value of your stir fry. Select crisp broccoli, vibrant bell peppers, and crunchy snow peas for the best texture and taste.
- Control the Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that the chicken sears properly while preventing it from becoming dry. Adjust the heat as needed to keep the stir fry cooking evenly.
- Garnish for Presentation: A simple garnish of sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only adds flavor but also elevates the dish visually. Presentation matters, especially when serving guests!
Variations
Substituting Proteins
If you want to change up the protein, tofu or shrimp work great. Tofu is a wonderful meat alternative. It absorbs flavors well. For shrimp, use medium-sized ones. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque. Both options provide a tasty twist on the classic dish.
Different Vegetable Combinations
Feel free to mix in other veggies. Carrots add a nice crunch and sweetness. Snap peas provide a fresh, crisp bite. You can also try bell peppers in various colors for extra flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative with seasonal veggies!
Gluten-Free Adaptations
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. This keeps the flavor rich without gluten. You can also check labels for other sauces you might use. Always make sure your cornstarch is gluten-free too. Enjoy a delicious meal that fits your dietary needs!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your teriyaki chicken stir fry, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents the food from drying out. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just take it out and reheat.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the stir fry cool completely. Then, divide it into portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you want to eat it, just thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you have a few options. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat a little oil in the pan on medium heat. Add your stir fry and cook until heated through. You can also use a microwave. Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the flavor and texture nice.
FAQs
What can I serve with Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry?
You can pair Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry with several great side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed rice, white or brown
- Noodles, like udon or rice noodles
- Fried rice, for extra flavor
- A fresh salad, with a light dressing
- Egg rolls or spring rolls, for crunch
These sides enhance the meal while adding variety.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare parts of this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips:
- Marinate the chicken a day before and store it in the fridge.
- Chop the vegetables and keep them in an airtight container.
- Cook the chicken and vegetables and store them separately.
- Reheat when you are ready to serve.
This saves time and keeps flavors fresh.
How do I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?
If you want to thicken the sauce without cornstarch, try these options:
- Use arrowroot powder, mixed with water.
- Make a slurry with flour and water.
- Cook the sauce longer to reduce it and thicken naturally.
These methods work well and add their own flavors.
In this blog post, we explored how to make a delicious Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. We covered all the key ingredients, from marinating the chicken to choosing the right vegetables. I shared helpful tips on cooking times and ways to enhance flavors. You can also make this dish your own with protein swaps and vegetable changes. Finally, we reviewed storing leftovers and reheating methods. With this guide, you can enjoy a tasty meal that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. Happy cooking!
