Chicken and Steak Stir Fry Recipe
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the rich, robust flavor of steak, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Not only is this stir fry packed with protein, but it also incorporates colorful vegetables, bringing both nutrition and visual appeal to your dinner table.
Why Stir Fry?
Stir frying is a fantastic cooking method that preserves the flavors and nutrients of the ingredients while providing a satisfying crunch. Chicken and Steak Stir Fry Recipe This technique allows for high heat cooking in a short time, which is ideal for busy cooks. Plus, the versatility of stir fry means you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or use up any leftovers you have in the fridge.
Benefits of Chicken and Steak Stir Fry:
- Quick Cooking Time: The stir-fry method cooks the meat and vegetables rapidly, usually within 20 minutes.
- Nutrient-Rich: Incorporating a variety of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals.
- Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger provides a robust flavor profile.
- Versatile: This dish can be customized with your favorite vegetables and sauces.
Ingredients You Will Need
To create a delicious chicken and steak stir fry, gather the following ingredients:
For the Stir Fry:
- Protein:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sesame oil for finishing
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or noodles
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by slicing the chicken and steak into thin strips. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Chop all vegetables, keeping them similar in size for uniform cooking.
- Marinate the Meat:
- In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken and steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and a pinch of pepper. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. This mixture will act as a thickener for your stir fry.
- Cook the Protein:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken first and stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until it’s nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Next, add the steak to the hot pan and stir fry for 2-3 minutes until browned but not overcooked. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Stir Fry the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the onions, carrots, and garlic. Stir fry for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken and steak to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir well to combine.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all the ingredients.
- Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle with sesame oil if using and toss everything together.
- Serve your chicken and steak stir fry over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Tips for the Perfect Stir Fry
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and marinate the meat ahead of time to make the cooking process even quicker.
- High Heat: Make sure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the ingredients; this helps to achieve that delicious stir-fried flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of stir frying.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of chicken and steak stir fry provides a healthy dose of protein and vegetables, making it a balanced meal option. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g (when served with rice)
- Fiber: 5g
- Fat: 10g
Variations to Try
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to throw in other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or baby corn for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken and steak for shrimp, tofu, or pork if desired.
External Resources for More Recipes
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Internal Resources
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Conclusion
A chicken and steak stir fry is not only a quick and easy meal but also a delicious way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in one dish. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of preparation, you can create a healthy, satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Enjoy your stir fry adventure, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!