Stir-Fried Broccoli and Carrots with Chicken

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Set the chicken aside.
   • Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and slice the carrots into thin julienne strips or rounds. This will ensure that the vegetables cook quickly and retain their crunch.
2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes or hot sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking—if you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey; if you like it saltier, add more soy sauce.
3. Stir-Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and ginger (if using), sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced carrots and broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp. You want to keep that fresh crunch, so avoid overcooking.
5. Combine Chicken and Vegetables:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and everything to combine nicely.
6. Serve:
   • Once the chicken and vegetables are well-coated in the sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Customizing Your Stir-Fried Broccoli and Carrots with Chicken

This recipe is highly adaptable based on what you have in your fridge or what you prefer to eat. Here are a few ways to customize your stir-fry:

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn. You can even throw in some leafy greens like spinach or bok choy for added nutrition.
• Change the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute with shrimp, beef, tofu, or tempeh. Just adjust the cooking times as needed based on the protein you choose.
• Make it Spicy: Add more chili flakes, fresh chopped chili, or a splash of Sriracha sauce to give the dish a spicy kick. Customize the heat level to your preference.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, and make sure to choose a gluten-free oyster sauce or omit it altogether.
• Incorporate Nuts: For extra crunch, toss in some roasted cashews, almonds, or peanuts right before serving.

Health Benefits of Stir-Fried Broccoli and Carrots with Chicken

• Rich in Nutrients: This dish is packed with vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, K, and folate, while carrots are high in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is vital for eye health.
• High in Protein: The chicken provides a lean source of protein that helps support muscle growth and repair while keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
• Balanced and Wholesome: This stir-fry is a great example of a balanced meal, combining lean protein, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings it all together. It’s naturally low in carbs, but when served with rice or noodles, it makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Quick and Easy: Stir-fries are one of the fastest ways to cook a healthy meal, making this a great choice for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Stir-Fried Broccoli and Carrots with Chicken is the ultimate combination of health, taste, and convenience. With its perfect balance of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and flavorful sauce, this dish makes for a satisfying, nutritious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein, so it never gets boring.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this stir-fry is sure to become a go-to recipe in your repertoire. It’s a simple, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy the goodness of fresh ingredients while keeping things quick and easy. Enjoy!