Ready In Just 30 Minutes! Try This Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe Using Frozen Vegetables

Chicken stir fry is a versatile dish that combines the goodness of protein-rich chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. This recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious stir fry using frozen vegetables, making it a convenient and time-saving option for busy individuals and families.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas and carrots
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen corn
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, water, cornstarch, black pepper, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat evenly. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken mixture and cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

• Add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add Frozen Vegetables:

• Add the frozen peas and carrots and corn to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine Chicken and Vegetables:

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine.

6. Make the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, cornstarch, black pepper, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).

7. Add Sauce to Stir Fry:

• Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

8. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the stir fry with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Variations:

• Protein Options:

• Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins, such as shrimp, tofu, or beef.

• Vegetable Options:

• Experiment with different frozen vegetable combinations. Some popular choices include broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, and snap peas.

• Sauce Variations:

• For a spicier stir fry, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
• For a sweeter stir fry, add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce mixture.
• For a tangy stir fry, add a tablespoon of rice vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce mixture.

Tips for a Perfect Stir Fry:

• Use a large skillet or wok to ensure even cooking.
• Cook the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure it cooks evenly.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
• Make sure the sauce is thickened before adding it to the stir fry. This will help it coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
• Serve the stir fry immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Health Benefits:

Chicken stir fry with frozen vegetables is a nutritious and balanced meal that offers several health benefits:

• Protein-Rich: Chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Fiber-Filled: Frozen vegetables are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
• Vitamin and Mineral Boost: Vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and potassium.
• Low in Calories: Chicken stir fry is a relatively low-calorie meal, making it a great option for weight management.

Takeaways:

This chicken stir fry recipe with frozen vegetables is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. With its versatility, you can customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds dancing!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can certainly use fresh vegetables in this recipe. Simply substitute the frozen vegetables with an equal amount of fresh vegetables of your choice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh vegetables may take longer to cook than frozen vegetables.

2. What type of rice or noodles can I serve with the stir fry?

You can serve the stir fry over steamed rice, boiled noodles, or your favorite grain. Some popular options include jasmine rice, brown rice, soba noodles, or udon noodles.

3. How can I make the stir fry spicier?

To add some heat to the stir fry, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, Sriracha sauce, or chili flakes to the sauce mixture. You can also include a chopped chili pepper or two while cooking the vegetables.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stir fry ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the stir fry over medium heat until warmed through.

5. Is this recipe suitable for individuals with gluten allergies?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that the cornstarch you use is also gluten-free. Additionally, choose gluten-free noodles or rice as your side dish.