High Protein Chicken Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This high protein chicken stir fry is a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with colorful vegetables and lean chicken, it's both delicious and healthy.
This high protein chicken stir fry is not just a meal, but a celebration of flavors and nutrition. It's perfect for anyone looking to increase their protein intake while enjoying a delicious dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with protein from lean chicken and colorful veggies
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a busy lifestyle
- Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions
Nutritional Benefits
This high protein chicken stir fry not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a wealth of nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. With each serving, you can expect a significant protein boost, making it an ideal choice for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
In addition to the protein, the colorful vegetables in this dish, such as bell peppers and broccoli, are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. These nutrients help support your immune system and overall health. Eating a variety of vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also ensures you're getting a range of essential nutrients in one meal.
Cooking Tips
To ensure your chicken stir fry turns out perfectly every time, consider slicing your chicken breast into uniform pieces. This allows for even cooking, ensuring that every bite is tender and juicy. Also, don’t overcrowd the skillet; it's better to cook in batches if necessary. This helps maintain high heat and gives your chicken that desirable sear.
Another great tip is to prep your ingredients ahead of time. Having everything sliced and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and faster, which is especially helpful on busy weeknights. You can even customize this stir fry by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a versatile recipe that suits your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This high protein chicken stir fry is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. These grains add extra fiber and make the dish even more filling. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.
To add more flavor, consider garnishing your stir fry with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the dish and enhance its flavors. Pairing it with a side of miso soup or a simple green salad can round out your meal beautifully.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients will help you create a healthy and flavorful stir fry.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the chicken breast and vegetables. Mince the garlic and ginger.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables
Stir in the mixed bell peppers and broccoli. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Season and Serve
Add soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
This quick stir fry is ready to be enjoyed!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, this chicken stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for those looking to eat healthy throughout the week.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stir fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and savoring.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to customize this stir fry with your favorite proteins. Shrimp, tofu, or beef can be excellent substitutions, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal taste; snap peas, carrots, or bok choy work wonderfully in this dish.
Additionally, if you're looking for a different flavor profile, try swapping out the soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option, or use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste. Adding a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes can introduce a delightful heat, making your stir fry even more exciting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in stir fries and can save prep time.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
→ What can I serve with this stir fry?
It's great on its own or served over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
→ Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! This stir fry stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
High Protein Chicken Stir Fry
This high protein chicken stir fry is a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with colorful vegetables and lean chicken, it's both delicious and healthy.
Created by: Isabella Clark
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Slice the chicken breast and vegetables. Mince the garlic and ginger.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the mixed bell peppers and broccoli. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 40g