Introduction
Transform ordinary chicken and veggies into an extraordinary, flavorful stir-fry that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and comforting without the fuss. Get ready to impress your family with this easy, spicy, and satisfying meal!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The simple preparation makes it perfect for even the busiest cooks, and the use of readily available ingredients means you can whip it up anytime the craving hits!
Key Ingredients
🐔 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
🧅 1 large onion, thinly sliced
🫑 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
🌶️ 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
🥦 1 cup broccoli florets
🥕 1 cup sliced carrots
🥜 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
🍯 2 tablespoons honey
醤油 2 tablespoons soy sauce
🍚 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
🥄 1 tablespoon cornstarch
芝麻油 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This helps it brown nicely and stay tender.
2️⃣ Stir-fry the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the wok and set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté the veggies: Add the onion, bell pepper, chilies, and garlic to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the broccoli and carrots and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
4️⃣ Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth.
5️⃣ Combine: Return the chicken to the wok. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
6️⃣ Serve: Serve the stir-fry hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds (optional).
Handy Tips
- Use pre-cut vegetables to save time!
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the wok when stir-frying the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is crucial for this recipe. It ensures the chicken cooks through without drying out and the vegetables stay crisp-tender. If the heat is too low, the chicken will steam instead of sear, and the vegetables will become mushy.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes from the lightly stir-fried vegetables, especially the broccoli and carrots. The peanut butter adds a creamy counterpoint to the satisfying crunch.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Add a splash of chicken broth to the sauce for extra richness.
- Toss in some chopped scallions or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This stir-fry isn’t typically gifted, but if you’re making a large batch for a potluck, you could transport it in a stylish thermal carrier or a decorative food-safe container.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Sweet and Sour: Add 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the sauce.
🌟 Garlic Lover’s: Add 1-2 more cloves of minced garlic to the vegetables.
🌟 Ginger Zing: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the sauce.
🌟 Peanut-Free: Substitute the peanut butter with 2 tablespoons of tahini for a delicious alternative.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken is dry: If the chicken is dry, you might have overcooked it. Reduce the heat and cook for a shorter time.
- Sauce is too thin: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a little more cornstarch.
- Vegetables are mushy: If the vegetables are mushy, you might have overcooked them. Reduce the heat and cook for a shorter time.
FAQ
- Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables, such as snow peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to stir-fry everything together just before serving to ensure the vegetables stay crisp.
- What kind of rice is best? White rice is a classic pairing, but brown rice or even quinoa work well too.
- Is this recipe kid-friendly? Yes! Kids love stir-fries and you can adjust the spice level to their preference.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Easy Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry is a weeknight winner that your whole family will adore. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Share your creations with us on social media using #AngelRecipesSpicyStirFry. Enjoy!