Light Chicken Asian Stir Fry Perfect For Summer Gatherings And Picnics
Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings and picnics, and what better way to celebrate than with a dish that is light, flavorful, and easy to prepare? This Light Chicken Asian Stir Fry is not only delicious but also packed with vibrant vegetables and lean protein, making it a healthy choice for summer dining. The combination of crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a savory sauce makes this stir fry a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a picnic in the park, this stir fry can be made ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies and served over rice or noodles. With its fresh flavors and colorful presentation, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while keeping things light and refreshing.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips, and wash and chop the vegetables as needed.
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and chicken broth. Set aside.
- In another bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help to create a nice sear and sauce texture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli, red and yellow bell peppers, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and everything to heat through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, or let it cool and pack it for a picnic or gathering.
Why This Stir Fry Is Perfect for Summer
This Light Chicken Asian Stir Fry is ideal for summer because it highlights seasonal vegetables that are fresh and vibrant. The quick cooking method ensures that the veggies remain crisp and retain their nutrients, making the dish not only tasty but also healthy.
Additionally, the stir-fry can be made in under 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy your summer gathering. It’s a dish that can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics where you might not have access to reheating options.
Customizing Your Stir Fry
One of the best aspects of a stir fry is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what is in season. Zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers can be excellent substitutions. You can also switch the protein; shrimp or tofu can work well in this recipe.
If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce. Adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less hoisin sauce based on your preference.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help steam the vegetables and prevent them from drying out.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stir fry vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
What other vegetables can I use?
You can get creative with the vegetables! Bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and asparagus are excellent choices that work well in this stir fry.
Is this dish gluten-free?
This stir fry can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
How can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
You can prepare the vegetables and chicken in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir-fry everything together and add the sauce.
Conclusion
This Light Chicken Asian Stir Fry is a delightful dish that encapsulates the flavors of summer while being easy to prepare and serve. Its fresh ingredients, quick cooking time, and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for gatherings and picnics.
By following this recipe, you can create a healthy meal that is not only satisfying but will also impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy this refreshing dish at your next summer event!
