Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This chicken, onion, and bell pepper stir-fry is the perfect quick dinner idea, packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is easily adaptable to your preferred spice level and vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. This helps the chicken to brown beautifully and retain its moisture.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Veggies
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and 2 tablespoons of water.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the stir-fry hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snow peas.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a spicier dish.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or cream cheese at the end for a creamy texture.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This chicken, onion, and bell pepper stir-fry recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's a healthy and delicious option, showcasing the best of easy recipes and delicious dishes. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone, making it a family favorite. Try it out and let us know what you think!