A chicken stir-fry with rice is the perfect solution when you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner. This dish combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables and is topped off with a savory soy sauce mix, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. The best part? It’s highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a unique twist. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is ideal for anyone.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water
- Optional: garlic, ginger, sesame oil, green onions for additional flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
2. Cook the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and then add the sliced chicken breasts. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the sliced carrots to the chicken in the skillet and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas if you prefer.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and any additional seasonings you’d like, such as garlic, ginger, or sesame oil. Stir the mixture to combine.
5. Combine and Cook
Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and carrots in the skillet, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve
Serve the chicken stir-fry over the cooked rice, and garnish with chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Customization Tips
The beauty of this chicken stir-fry with rice is that it’s easy to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe:
- Add more vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini make great additions.
- Try different proteins: If you’re not a fan of chicken, substitute it with beef, tofu, or shrimp.
- Spice it up: For a kick of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the soy sauce mix.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
This chicken stir-fry with rice is ideal for busy weeknights because:
- It’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup after cooking.
- The ingredients are budget-friendly and often already in your pantry.
- It’s quick, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, including cooking time for the rice and stir-fry.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice
This dish isn’t just delicious but also provides several key nutrients:
- Chicken: A lean source of protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth.
- Carrots: High in vitamin A, which is essential for eye health.
- Rice: A good source of carbohydrates, giving you the energy you need for the day.
Conclusion
This Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice recipe is a simple, customizable, and delicious option for any home cook. With minimal ingredients and quick prep time, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or when you need a quick, healthy meal on a budget. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
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