Craving asian cuisine? try this low-calorie chicken stir fry recipe that won’t break the bank

Indulge in the delectable flavors of a low-calorie chicken stir fry, a culinary masterpiece that combines the goodness of lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables. This recipe is tailored for those seeking a healthy and satisfying meal without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce, reduced sodium
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup sliced onion
• 1/4 cup chopped ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot oil and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, onion, ginger, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, chicken broth, sesame oil, and black pepper. Pour the sauce over the stir fry and bring to a simmer.
6. Cook the Sauce: Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20 grams
• Fat: 10 grams

Benefits of a Low-Calorie Chicken Stir Fry

• Lean Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue.
• Nutrient-Rich Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onions are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, boosting overall health.
• Low in Fat: This stir fry is cooked with minimal oil, making it a low-fat meal.
• Versatile: The recipe can be customized to suit your preferences, such as adding different vegetables or using a different sauce.
• Quick and Easy to Make: The stir fry can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient meal option.

Tips for Making a Low-Calorie Chicken Stir Fry

• Use Lean Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lower-calorie option.
• Reduce Sodium: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and hoisin sauce to lower the sodium content.
• Cook with Less Oil: Use a nonstick skillet or wok to reduce the amount of oil needed.
• Add More Vegetables: Pile on the veggies to increase the nutritional value and fiber content.
• Use Whole-Wheat Noodles or Brown Rice: If desired, serve the stir fry over whole-wheat noodles or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Variations

• Spicy Stir Fry: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Ginger-Garlic Stir Fry: Increase the amount of ginger and garlic to 1/2 cup each for a more flavorful dish.
• Teriyaki Stir Fry: Substitute the hoisin sauce with 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce.
• Vegetable-Only Stir Fry: Omit the chicken for a vegetarian or vegan version.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the stir fry.

Q: What can I substitute for hoisin sauce?
A: You can substitute hoisin sauce with 1/4 cup of oyster sauce or 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce.

Q: How can I make this stir fry even lower in calories?
A: Use extra-lean chicken breasts, reduce the amount of oil used, and add more vegetables.