Are you craving a flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! This vermicelli and chicken recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and requires minimal cooking time, making it a perfect choice for even the most novice cooks. This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can easily create using homemade cooking techniques. Let’s get started on this journey to a quick and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz vermicelli rice noodles
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fish sauce (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional, to add spice)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside. This is a crucial step for ensuring your easy recipes turn out perfectly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable 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
In the same wok, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), rice vinegar, honey/brown sugar, and sesame oil.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the wok. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Add the cooked vermicelli noodles to the wok and toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef.
- Vegetable Variety: Add other vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
- Peanut Butter Twist: For a richer flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the sauce.
- Make it a Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble it just before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fat: 10-15g
This vermicelli and chicken recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that are both quick and delicious. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!