Ingredients
Scale
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil): Used for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 lb chicken breast (boneless and skinless), cut into bite-sized pieces: The lean protein that makes up the base of the stir-fry.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds color and crunch to the stir-fry.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Provides sweetness and additional color.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or sliced thinly: A crunchy and slightly sweet vegetable that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 small onion, sliced: Adds flavor and depth to the stir-fry.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides the essential garlicky flavor that pairs perfectly with honey.
- 1 zucchini, sliced: A light vegetable that balances the heartier ingredients.
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans: Adds a fresh, crisp texture.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional): For garnish, adding texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- ¼ cup honey: The main ingredient that gives the sauce its sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Adds saltiness and umami to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Provides a tangy kick that balances the honey’s sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: To thicken the sauce and give it the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional): Adds warmth and a hint of spice to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon water: To dissolve the cornstarch and help thin out the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a slight heat that enhances the flavor profile.
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions: For freshness and color.
- Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and flavor.
Instructions
First Step: PREPARE THE INGREDIENTS
- Cut the Chicken: Start by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook quickly and ensures that each piece absorbs the sauce.
- Slice the Vegetables: Cut the bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onion into thin slices or julienne strips to ensure they cook evenly. Mince the garlic and, if using, grate the ginger.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, and cornstarch. If you’re adding ginger or red pepper flakes, mix them in at this stage. Set the sauce aside.
Second Step: COOK THE CHICKEN
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan.
- Cook the Chicken: Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Third Step: COOK THE VEGETABLES
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the onion, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add the Zucchini and Snap Peas: Add the zucchini and snap peas (or green beans) to the pan, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but vibrant in color.
Fourth Step: COMBINE THE CHICKEN AND SAUCE
- Add the Chicken Back In: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly mixed with the vegetables.
- Pour the Sauce: Give the honey garlic sauce a quick whisk and pour it into the pan over the chicken and vegetables. Stir until the sauce begins to thicken and coat the chicken and vegetables evenly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to reach the desired consistency. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed (you can add more soy sauce for saltiness or honey for sweetness).
Fifth Step: GARNISH AND SERVE
- Garnish: Once everything is well coated and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top of the stir-fry for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 34g