Easy as pie: how to whip up a savory chicken stir fry with frozen veggies

Whip up a delectable chicken stir fry with frozen veggies in the comfort of your own kitchen. This versatile dish combines succulent chicken, crisp-tender vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. Follow our comprehensive guide to master the art of this classic culinary creation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. Set aside.

2. Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.

3. Add the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add the frozen mixed vegetables, onion, and green bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

4. Pour in the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat.

5. Cook Until Thickened

Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken stir fry hot over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.

Tips for Success

• For a spicier stir fry, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• If you don’t have frozen mixed vegetables, use a combination of your favorite fresh vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
• To make the stir fry gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.
• Serve the stir fry with a side of rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variations

• Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry: Add 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry: Replace the brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey and add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the sauce mixture.
• Sesame Chicken Stir Fry: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds over the stir fry before serving.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I use frozen stir-fry vegetables?

Yes, frozen stir-fry vegetables are a convenient alternative to fresh vegetables. They are typically pre-cut and blanched, making them quick and easy to use.

2. How long should I cook the chicken?

Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

3. How do I thicken the sauce?

The cornstarch in the sauce will thicken it as it simmers. If the sauce is still too thin, you can add an additional 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water.

4. What can I serve with chicken stir fry?

Chicken stir fry can be served over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. Some popular options include jasmine rice, brown rice, lo mein, or egg noodles.

5. How can I make the stir fry healthier?

To make the stir fry healthier, use lean chicken and low-sodium soy sauce. You can also add more vegetables and reduce the amount of oil used.