Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful asian dinner recipe, this Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry is an excellent choice. This dish comes together fast, offering a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work best. You can substitute with firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger provides the best flavor. Ground ginger can be used in a pinch, but reduce the amount.
- Vegetables: Broccoli florets and bell peppers are classic, but feel free to use snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Optional: Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Optional: Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, whisk, cutting board, sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Whisk Together the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and water. Set this flavorful sauce aside.
3. Sauté the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the broccoli florets to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Next, add the sliced bell pepper and continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Give the stir-fry sauce another quick whisk, then pour it over everything in the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve and Garnish
Remove your delicious Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry from the heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles for a complete asian dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
- Extra Veggies: Include snap peas, shredded carrots, or water chestnuts for more crunch and nutrition.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a richer, more complex flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can chop all your vegetables and make the sauce ahead of time. Cook the stir-fry just before serving for the best texture.
What kind of rice goes well with this?
Jasmine rice or brown rice are excellent choices to serve alongside this asian dinner recipe.
How do I make the chicken extra tender?
Marinating the chicken briefly with cornstarch, as directed, helps tenderize it and gives it a nice texture.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen stir-fry vegetable mixes. Just add them directly to the skillet and cook until tender.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure any other sauces are certified gluten-free.
What if I don’t have fresh ginger?
You can use about 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger in the sauce, but fresh ginger offers a more vibrant flavor.
