How To Cook Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
What To Know
- To prepare the chicken, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Chicken teriyaki stir fry is a culinary symphony that combines the flavors of the East and the West.
- Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, follow these step-by-step instructions and tips to create a perfect stir fry that will impress your family and friends.
Craving a delectable and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of the East and the West? Look no further than chicken teriyaki stir fry, a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes taste buds with its sweet, savory, and umami-rich flavors. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of preparing this mouthwatering dish, providing step-by-step instructions and essential tips to ensure a perfect stir fry every time.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before embarking on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
Prepare the Chicken
To prepare the chicken, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir to coat evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. Wash and slice the bell pepper, onion, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Set aside in separate bowls.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the bell pepper, onion, and broccoli to the same pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the carrots and snap peas and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
Return the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Stir well to combine.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Add this mixture to the pan and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Season to Taste
Taste the stir fry and adjust seasonings as needed. You may add more teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, or honey to suit your preferences.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken teriyaki stir fry hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or additional teriyaki sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for a Perfect Stir Fry
- Use a large skillet or wok to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Cook the chicken over high heat to create a nice sear.
- Sauté the vegetables until they are tender but still retain a slight crunch.
- Thicken the sauce with cornstarch to achieve a glossy and flavorful finish.
- Serve the stir fry immediately for maximum freshness and flavor.
Variations
- Add other vegetables to your stir fry, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or water chestnuts.
- Use different cuts of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks.
- Experiment with different marinades, such as ginger-soy or hoisin sauce.
- Top the stir fry with a fried egg for an extra layer of richness.
Health Benefits of Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
Chicken teriyaki stir fry is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:
- Lean protein from the chicken provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
- Vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
- Teriyaki sauce contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Finale: A Culinary Symphony
Chicken teriyaki stir fry is a culinary symphony that combines the flavors of the East and the West. With its sweet, savory, and umami-rich taste, this dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, follow these step-by-step instructions and tips to create a perfect stir fry that will impress your family and friends.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Defrost the chicken completely before marinating and cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover chicken teriyaki stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stir fry up to 2 days in advance. Store the cooked chicken and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, heat the chicken and vegetables in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.