Stir-Fried Broccoli and Carrots with Chicken

Stir-fried broccoli and carrots with chicken is a versatile dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional value. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this stir-fry dish offers the perfect balance of taste and health. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this wholesome, flavorful dish at home.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 tablespoons of corn starch
• 1 thinly sliced chicken fillet
• A dollop of soy sauce
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• ¼ teaspoon of sesame oil
• 50 milliliters of chicken broth (or water)
• ½ teaspoon of sweetener (optional, can be honey or sugar)
• Shaved scallions for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Risotto or steamed rice (optional, for serving)

Optional Additions:

• Hoisin sauce or oyster sauce for added depth of flavor
• Minced garlic and ginger for an aromatic boost
• Crushed red pepper flakes for some heat

Equipment You Will Need

• A large frying pan, wok, or plate
• Multipurpose bowls
• Liquid measurement set with cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1.5 tablespoons of corn starch, a dollop of soy sauce, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 thinly sliced chicken fillet. Stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated, and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken remains tender and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

2. Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together your sauce components. This includes chicken broth (or water), a small amount of sweetener, and optionally, some hoisin sauce or oyster sauce. Add ¼ teaspoon of sesame oil for a nutty, fragrant touch. Set this mixture aside, as it will be added later during the stir-fry.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown and is nearly cooked through. The browning of the chicken enhances its flavor and gives it a slight crispiness. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and ginger, allowing them to sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Next, add the broccoli florets and carrot slices to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring the vegetables remain vibrant and tender-crisp. You want the broccoli to maintain its bright green color and the carrots to be slightly tender but still have a bit of a bite.

5. Combine and Finish Cooking

Once the vegetables have reached the desired tenderness, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Allow the stir-fry to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.

6. Serve and Garnish

To serve, place the stir-fry over a bed of steamed or fried rice, or serve it alongside some risotto if you want a heartier meal. Garnish the dish with freshly shaved scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.