Looking for a simple yet tasty meal? My Garlic Butter Chicken Stir Fry is just what you need! It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With easy ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll create a dish that impresses everyone at your table. Let’s dive in and make dinner a delight!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredient List
– 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups bell peppers, sliced (red and yellow for color)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 medium carrot, julienned
– 3 green onions, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Important Ingredient Notes
The chicken breast gives this dish a tender texture. I prefer using fresh chicken for the best taste. Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor without being too salty. Garlic is the star here, so don’t skimp! Choose vibrant bell peppers for color and sweetness. Broccoli and carrots add crunch and nutrition. Green onions add a fresh kick at the end.
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein. Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option. Coconut aminos work as a soy sauce substitute if needed. If you dislike honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet. Use medium-high heat. Once the butter bubbles, add the sliced chicken. Season it with salt and pepper. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it golden and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the other 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt completely. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. You will smell a wonderful aroma. Next, toss in the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry these for 4 to 5 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but still crisp.
Combining Ingredients
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated. Heat for about 2 minutes. This step melds the flavors. Finally, stir in the chopped green onions. Mix well before serving. Enjoy over cooked jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stir Fry
To make a great stir fry, use high heat. This helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly. A large skillet or wok works best. This gives you space to toss the food. Always cut your chicken into thin strips. Thin pieces cook faster and stay juicy. Stir the chicken often to prevent it from sticking.
How to Enhance Flavor
Garlic is key in this dish. It adds a rich taste. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Mince it finely so it blends well. Butter adds creaminess and depth. Use unsalted butter to control salt levels. Soy sauce gives the dish a nice salty kick. Honey balances the salt with a touch of sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Keep an eye on it; it should be golden, not dry. Don’t crowd the pan. If you add too much food at once, it will steam instead of fry. Be careful with the garlic; it can burn quickly. If it burns, it will taste bitter. Always taste your dish before serving to adjust flavors.
Variations
Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations
You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan. Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Use 1 pound of firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes. You can marinate the tofu in soy sauce for more flavor. For a vegan option, swap butter with vegan butter or olive oil. The other ingredients, like garlic and veggies, work great in this version too!
Additional Protein Options
If you want to change up the protein, try shrimp or beef. Use 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink. For beef, use flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced. Stir-fry the beef for about 4-5 minutes. The garlic butter sauce will still work wonders with any of these proteins.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
You can add more flavor and texture to your stir fry. Try adding ginger for a warm, spicy kick. Just use about 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, minced. You can also add nuts like cashews or peanuts for crunch. They add a nice texture and flavor. For heat, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce. You can even add fruit like pineapple for a sweet twist.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Stir Fry, store leftovers in an airtight container. Let the dish cool down first. This helps keep the flavors fresh. It can last in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until heated through. You can also use the microwave. Heat in a bowl for one to two minutes. Stir halfway to avoid hot spots.
Freezing Options
If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The stir fry can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How Long does Garlic Butter Chicken Stir Fry Last?
Garlic Butter Chicken Stir Fry lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy days.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this stir fry. Just remember to thaw them first. This helps them cook evenly. Frozen veggies save time and add color. They work well with the garlic and butter flavors.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Stir Fry?
Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Stir Fry over jasmine rice for a filling meal. You can also pair it with noodles or quinoa. A fresh salad or steamed veggies on the side adds crunch. Lime wedges give a nice zing and balance the dish.
This blog post shared key ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making garlic butter chicken stir fry. You learned tips for perfecting your dish and how to avoid common mistakes. We also explored tasty variations and smart storage options.
Remember, cooking is about being creative and having fun. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your next meal with these easy methods and ideas in mind!
