Quick Chicken Asian Stir Fry For College Students Looking To Eat Well

As a college student, juggling classes, social life, and studying can leave little time for cooking. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t eat well! This Quick Chicken Asian Stir Fry is not only easy to prepare, but it is also packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This stir fry is versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Additionally, it requires minimal equipment, making it an ideal choice for college kitchens. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends with your cooking skills!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
• Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
2. While the chicken is marinating, chop all your vegetables. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process quicker and more efficient.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to avoid burning, about 30 seconds.
5. Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine everything evenly.
7. In a small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil to create a sauce. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
8. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all the ingredients.
9. Once everything is well combined, remove from heat. Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles.
10. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Why This Recipe Works for College Students

This Quick Chicken Asian Stir Fry is specifically tailored for college students who want to eat well without spending too much time or money. It uses simple ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes.

Moreover, this dish is highly customizable. If you have leftover vegetables in your fridge, you can throw them in without any worries. This flexibility makes it a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Tips for Success

To make your stir fry even better, consider these tips:

• Use a high heat for cooking to get that perfect sear on your chicken and vegetables.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If you have a lot of ingredients, consider cooking them in batches.
• For added flavor, marinate the chicken for longer if you have time. An hour or even overnight can enhance the taste significantly.
• Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins like tofu, shrimp, or beef.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables for this stir fry?

Yes! Frozen vegetables are a great option and can save you time. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the skillet.

What can I serve with this stir fry?

This stir fry pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. You can also serve it with a side of spring rolls for a complete meal.

Is this dish spicy?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha if you prefer some heat.

Can I meal prep this stir fry?

Absolutely! This stir fry is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook a larger batch and divide it into containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Eating well in college doesn’t have to be a challenge. With this Quick Chicken Asian Stir Fry, you can prepare a delicious, nutritious meal in just a short amount of time. It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and impress your friends with your culinary skills!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and start cooking this delicious stir fry today!