Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that are also gluten-free? Do you crave flavorful meals that are quick to prepare, even on busy weeknights? Then look no further! This gluten-free chicken and veggie stir-fry is the perfect solution. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a vibrant, savory sauce – all without any gluten! This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, offering a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and homemade meal. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup snow peas
- 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce (tamari)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Stir-Fry the Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Add the broccoli and carrots and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the wok and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the gluten-free soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
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Combine & Simmer: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Add Snow Peas: Stir in the snow peas during the last minute of cooking. They cook quickly and retain their vibrant green color.
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Serve: Serve the stir-fry hot over cooked rice or quinoa, if desired. Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Chicken Stir-Fry:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken and vegetables in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the sauce to your taste: Feel free to add more honey for sweetness or more gluten-free soy sauce for saltiness. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables provide the best flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Add protein: Shrimp, tofu, or beef can be substituted for the chicken.
- Change up the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal option. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This gluten-free chicken and veggie stir-fry is a fantastic quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and nutrition. It's a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals that can easily be incorporated into your weekly meal plan. Enjoy this delicious dish and explore the endless possibilities of homemade cooking!