Picture sizzling chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce coming together in a quick and easy stir-fry that’ll make your taste buds dance! Trust me, this Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry is a total game changer when it comes to weeknight dinners. Not only is it super simple to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. Let’s dive in and make some magic in the kitchen together!
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe
Oh, where do I even begin? This recipe is not only quick (hello, 30-minute meal!) but also bursting with vibrant flavors and vibrant colors! The juicy chicken and crunchy bell peppers mingle beautifully, making every bite an absolute treat. Plus, it’s loaded with veggies, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste buds or use up whatever veggies you have chilling in your fridge! Perfect for busy nights, even picky eaters will find themselves asking for seconds. Can you feel the excitement?!
How to make Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
Let’s get ready to stir-fry our way to dinner bliss! This recipe is super straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients for Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon high-heat cooking oil (avocado oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil)
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds total), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 green bell peppers, seeded and diced
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced, green and white parts separated
- Cooked rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and cornstarch and set aside.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the cubed chicken and cook, stirring as needed, until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Add the bell peppers and the white portion of the green onions. Cook until the peppers soften, about 3-5 minutes longer.
- Give the soy sauce mixture another stir, then pour into the chicken mixture and cook, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve stir-fry over cooked rice, sprinkling with the remaining part of the green onions for garnish.
What to Serve With Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
Oh, the options are endless! You can serve this gorgeous stir-fry over fluffy jasmine rice or even quinoa for a nutty twist. Want to keep it low-carb? Serve it over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice! Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or some stir-fried snap peas for a colorful side. The world is your oyster!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips of Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
You can totally make this dish ahead of time! Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to dig in, just pop it in the microwave or heat it on the stovetop until piping hot. This stir-fry also freezes beautifully! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-friendly container, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If your skillet is too full, the chicken will steam instead of sear, and nobody wants that! Cook in batches if necessary.
- Feel free to experiment with the veggies! Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots would make fab additions!
- Keep your sauce whisked well before adding it to the pan, ensuring it’s nice and smooth for an even coating!
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the protein? Shrimp or tofu work wonderfully in this stir-fry too! Craving some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to kick it up a notch. You can even swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative or try coconut aminos for a little sweetness!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting it into cubes for the best results.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and follow the same cooking instructions for a veggie-packed delight!
How can I make my stir-fry more flavorful?
Marinating your chicken in the soy sauce mix for about 30 minutes before cooking can amp up those delicious flavors!
Oh my goodness, I hope you are absolutely buzzing to try this Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry! It’s all about love, flavor, and color in this dish. Happy cooking, my friend!