Introduction
Transform simple chicken and veggies into a restaurant-quality teriyaki stir-fry that’s bursting with flavor! This recipe is super easy to follow, perfect for busy weeknights, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Get ready to impress everyone with this delicious and satisfying meal!
Why This Works
This teriyaki chicken stir-fry recipe works because it balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors beautifully. The homemade teriyaki sauce is incredibly simple to make but adds a depth of flavor you won’t find in store-bought sauces. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile β you can easily swap out veggies based on what you have on hand!
Key Ingredients
π 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
π₯¦ 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
π₯ 1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
π§
1 large onion, thinly sliced
π« 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
π 2 cups cooked rice, for serving
π― 1/2 cup soy sauce
π― 1/4 cup honey
πΆ 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
π§ 2 cloves garlic, minced
ηε§ 1 inch ginger, minced
sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
1οΈβ£ Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken with 1/4 cup of the soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 clove of minced garlic. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer, for even more flavor!).
2οΈβ£ Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and remaining garlic. Set aside.
3οΈβ£ Stir-fry the Chicken: Heat the sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
4οΈβ£ Stir-fry the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
5οΈβ£ Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the wok. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6οΈβ£ Serve: Serve the teriyaki chicken stir-fry hot over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds (optional).
Handy Tips
- Use a wok or large skillet for best results. A wok allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when stir-frying the chicken and vegetables. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is ideal for this recipe. It allows you to quickly stir-fry the chicken and vegetables without burning them. If the heat is too low, the chicken and vegetables will steam instead of stir-fry, resulting in a less appealing texture.
Crunch Factor
The vegetables should retain a slight crunch when they’re cooked. Overcooking will make them mushy. Aim for a balance between tender and crisp.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a shortcut, use pre-cut vegetables to save time.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of spice.
- To make it a complete meal, add some cooked noodles to the stir-fry.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This stir-fry makes a wonderful gift! Package it in a pretty container with a side of rice and some chopsticks. Add a small card with the recipe.
Flavor Variations
π Spicy Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
π Garlic Lover’s Teriyaki: Add extra minced garlic to both the marinade and the sauce.
π Pineapple Teriyaki: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pineapple to the stir-fry during the last few minutes of cooking.
π Peanut Teriyaki: Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter along with the teriyaki sauce.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken is dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Lower the heat if necessary.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a longer time to allow it to thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) to help thicken the sauce.
- Vegetables are mushy: Don’t overcrowd the pan and use medium-high heat to prevent steaming.
FAQ
- Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables.
- Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, chicken thighs will work well too. They may take a little longer to cook.
- Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- What kind of rice is best? Jasmine rice or short-grain rice works well.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, allow it to cool completely then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Flavor-Packed Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is a winner! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Share your creations with us on social media β we’d love to see your versions! Happy cooking!