Stir fry dishes are a staple in many households due to their quick preparation and versatility. This Chicken and Beef Stir Fry is a perfect example of a delicious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken and beef with a colorful mix of vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Chicken and Beef Stir Fry, gather the following ingredients:
Proteins:
- Chicken breast: 1 pound, thinly sliced
- Beef flank steak: 1 pound, thinly sliced
Vegetables:
- Bell peppers: 1 red, 1 green, and 1 yellow, sliced
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups
- Carrots: 2, sliced thinly
- Snap peas: 1 cup
- Onion: 1 medium, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
Sauce:
- Soy sauce: 1/4 cup
- Oyster sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (for thickening)
- Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Black pepper: to taste
- Red pepper flakes: optional, for heat
Cooking Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil: for frying
- Sesame seeds: for garnish (optional)
- Green onions: sliced, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation of Ingredients
- Begin by slicing the chicken and beef into thin strips. This allows for quicker cooking and tender results.
- Prepare all vegetables by washing and slicing them as indicated in the ingredients list.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, brown sugar, and black pepper. This will be your stir fry sauce.
2. Marinate the Meat
- Combine the sliced chicken and beef in a bowl and add a portion of the stir fry sauce (about 2 tablespoons). Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
3. Cooking the Proteins
- Heat a large wok or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken first. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the Chicken and Beef Stir is browned and cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and add the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
4. Stir-Frying the Vegetables
- In the same wok, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas to the wok. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
5. Combining Everything
- Return the cooked Chicken and Beef Stir to the wok with the vegetables.
- Pour the remaining stir fry sauce over the meat and vegetables. Toss everything together and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients evenly.
6. Finishing Touches
- If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken and Beef Stir Fry over a bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles for a complete meal. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing with its colorful vegetables.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lean Protein: Chicken and Beef Stir and beef provide essential proteins necessary for muscle repair and growth.
- Vegetables: The variety of vegetables adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your diet, making this stir fry a well-balanced meal.
- Quick Preparation: This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a nutritious meal in a hurry.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute Chicken and Beef Stir and beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly stir fry.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to include any of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bok choy for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: For those who love heat, add chopped fresh chilies or a dash of Sriracha to the stir fry sauce.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Beef Stir Fry is a quick and delicious solution for dinner. With its rich flavors, colorful vegetables, and tender meat, it’s sure to become a family favorite. For more easy and delicious recipes, explore Recipesify, where you’ll find a variety of meal ideas that fit any occasion.
External Resources
- For more about the health benefits of stir fry, visit Healthline.
- Discover more recipes and tips for cooking at Serious Eats.