Quick and Easy Sides for Asian Chicken for Busy Moms

Introduction

As a busy mom, finding time to prepare meals while ensuring they are both delicious and nutritious can be a challenge. When it comes to Asian chicken dishes, choosing the right sides can elevate your meal and make it memorable. This article will explore various sides for Asian chicken that are quick to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your family and less time in the kitchen.

Whether you are making teriyaki chicken, orange chicken, or a spicy Szechuan chicken, the right side dishes will enhance the flavors and provide a balanced meal. In this guide, you will find easy-to-follow recipes that cater to your busy lifestyle without compromising on taste or health.

Delicious Sides for Asian Chicken

1. Garlic Stir-Fried Broccoli

• 1 lb fresh broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce if desired.
5. Serve immediately alongside your favorite Asian chicken.

2. Jasmine Rice

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• Salt, to taste

1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
5. Add butter if desired for extra flavor.

3. Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing

• 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish

1. In a large bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers and toss to coat well.
3. Let the salad marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving alongside your chicken dish.

4. Sweet and Spicy Szechuan Noodles

• 8 oz spaghetti or Asian noodles
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili paste
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 green onions, sliced

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili paste, and honey.
3. In a large skillet, combine the cooked noodles and sauce over medium heat.
4. Toss to coat and add green onions before serving.

5. Steamed Edamame

• 2 cups frozen edamame (in pods)
• Salt, to taste

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the frozen edamame.
2. Boil for 3-5 minutes until tender; drain and sprinkle with salt.
3. Serve warm as a protein-packed side dish.

Tips for Quick Meal Prep

To make your meal prep even quicker, consider batch cooking your sides on the weekends. You can prepare a large batch of jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables and store them in the fridge. This way, when dinner time comes around, all you need to do is reheat and serve!

Another helpful tip is to keep your pantry stocked with essential ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Having these items on hand will make whipping up these sides a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some other sides that go well with Asian chicken?

Some great options include fried rice, miso soup, and spring rolls. Each adds unique flavors that complement Asian chicken dishes.

Can I prepare these sides in advance?

Absolutely! Many of these sides can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making it easy to have a quick meal ready.

Are these sides healthy?

Yes! Each of these sides incorporates fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, making them nutritious additions to your meal.

What Asian chicken recipes pair well with these sides?

These sides pair wonderfully with dishes like teriyaki chicken, honey garlic chicken, or orange chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Conclusion

Finding sides for Asian chicken that are both easy and quick can significantly simplify your meal planning as a busy mom. With these delicious recipes, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner that your family will love. By incorporating fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can ensure your meals are not only quick to prepare but also nutritious and flavorful. Try out these recipes today and enjoy stress-free family dinners!