Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that's quick to make? Look no further! This chicken and tofu stir-fry is packed with flavor and nutrients, and it's ready in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and easy meal without sacrificing taste or health. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, providing a delicious and healthy alternative to takeout. It’s one of the best recipes for those aiming for a balanced diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Tofu
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely. In a separate bowl, toss the tofu cubes with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Pressing the tofu beforehand is crucial for removing excess water and ensuring a crispier texture.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the ginger and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Tofu
Add the chicken to the wok and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through. Push the chicken to the side of the wok and add the tofu. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Vegetables
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour the sauce over the chicken and tofu. Stir in the broccoli and snow peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Stir in the sesame oil. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot over cooked rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Pressing the tofu: This step is vital for removing excess water and achieving a firmer, crispier texture. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken and tofu will steam instead of stir-fry. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the sauce to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar to your taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or pork. You could also make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the meat altogether and adding more tofu or vegetables.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicier stir-fry.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This chicken and tofu stir-fry recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes. It's a quick, easy, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's also a great way to incorporate more healthy meals into your diet, making it one of the best recipes for those seeking quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!