Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't leave you feeling sluggish? Craving a quick meal packed with protein and vibrant flavors, all while sticking to your paleo lifestyle? Then look no further! This high-protein paleo chicken and vegetable stir-fry is the perfect solution. It's a simple, easy recipe, ready in under 30 minutes, and bursting with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Get ready to experience a flavorful and satisfying meal that's both good for your body and your soul!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup sliced carrots
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos (or tamari for a non-paleo option)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This helps the chicken brown nicely.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion to the wok and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic, bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the wok. Add the coconut aminos, lime juice, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the stir-fry immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with cauliflower rice or a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken and vegetables in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Add other vegetables: Get creative with your vegetables! Feel free to add other paleo-friendly vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus.
- Make it a meal prep staple: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Shrimp Stir-Fry: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a lighter and quicker meal.
- Beef Stir-Fry: Use thinly sliced beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Stir-Fry: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 35-40g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This high-protein paleo chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver both flavor and health benefits. It’s a perfect choice for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and delicious dishes that are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade cooking!