Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry: A Quick and Healthy Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of tender chicken and crisp asparagus in a quick and easy meal. This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of fresh ingredients that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Originating from Asian cuisine, stir fry has become a beloved cooking method worldwide, known for its ability to retain the nutrients and flavors of the ingredients while offering a satisfying crunch.

People love Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the slightly nutty flavor of asparagus, creating a dish that is both wholesome and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient for busy weeknights, making it a go-to recipe in many households. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by washing your chicken breasts under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a nice sear when cooking. 2. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly. 3. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. I usually sprinkle a little bit of each on both sides to enhance the flavor.

Preparing the Vegetables

4. Rinse the asparagus under cold water and trim the ends. You want to remove the tough, woody parts. Cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces. 5. Mince the garlic and ginger. I find that using a microplane for ginger gives a nice fine texture that blends well into the stir fry. 6. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips. This adds a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. 7. Trim the snap peas and chop the green onions, keeping the white and green parts separate. The white parts will be added earlier for flavor, while the green parts will be used as a garnish.

Making the Sauce

8. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth (or water). Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This will be our stir fry sauce that thickens as it cooks. 9. Add the sesame oil to the sauce mixture for an extra layer of flavor. I love the nutty aroma it brings to the dish.

Cooking the Chicken

10. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. 11. Carefully add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. 12. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). 13. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This will allow the juices to redistribute while we cook the vegetables.

Cooking the Vegetables

14. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. You may notice some brown bits from the chicken; that’s flavor! 15. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them. 16. Next, add the white parts of the green onions, red bell pepper, and asparagus. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain some crunch for texture. 17. Add the snap peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will make your kitchen smell amazing!

Combining Everything

18. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. 19. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and bubble. 20. Taste the stir fry and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like it saltier, add a splash more soy sauce. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can be a great addition.

Serving the Dish

21. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. 22. Serve the chicken asparagus

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry is a must-try for anyone looking to whip up a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. The combination of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and vibrant flavors makes it a standout dish that can easily become a weeknight favorite. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it also comes together in just a matter of minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this stir fry with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the savory sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking. For a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha can elevate the flavor profile even further. I encourage you to give this Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry a try and make it your own! Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with your favorite ingredients, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you discover along the way. Cooking is all about creativity and sharing, so let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print