Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that bursts with flavor, then look no further than this Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry. This dish is packed with tender chicken thighs, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a savory sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry is everything you could want in a weeknight meal: quick, easy, and full of flavor. Here are a few reasons why this dish is a must-try:
- Quick Preparation: With a cooking time of only 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh cilantro, ginger, and garlic creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, colorful vegetables, and healthy fats from peanuts, this stir fry is as nutritious as it is tasty.
- Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add more spice to suit your taste.
What’s in the Bowl
To make this Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tsp peanut oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey-roasted peanuts
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ginger, minced fresh
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp Sriracha
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 1 cup cilantro, freshly chopped
Serve this delicious stir fry over hot cooked rice and add lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!
Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:
- Wok or Large Skillet: Ideal for stir frying to ensure even cooking.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For tossing the ingredients without scratching your pan.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure out your ingredients.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping your vegetables and chicken.
Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Chop the red bell pepper, slice green onions, and mince the garlic and ginger. Set everything aside and keep them within reach for quick assembly.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of peanut oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. This will give your stir fry a lovely nutty flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, stirring frequently. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics and Veggies
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped red bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha, sesame oil, and corn starch. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables, and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Add Peanuts and Cilantro
Stir in the honey-roasted peanuts and chopped cilantro, mixing well until everything is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
Step 7: Serve!
Spoon the stir fry over hot cooked rice and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry!
Tailor It to Your Diet
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ways to customize it:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
- Extra Veggies: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
- Spicy Variant: Increase the Sriracha for those who love a kick or add red pepper flakes.
Cook’s Notes
Here are a few tips to ensure your Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry turns out perfectly:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for better browning.
- Feel free to switch out the honey-roasted peanuts for plain or spicy peanuts, depending on your taste.
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To store your Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry:
- Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Questions People Ask
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is a great substitute, although it may require a shorter cooking time due to being leaner.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with fresh parsley or simply omit it altogether. The dish will still taste fantastic!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and cook them when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with this stir fry?
This Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Don’t forget those lime wedges!
Serve & Enjoy
Now that your kitchen is filled with the tantalizing aroma of Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry, it’s time to dig in! Serve this vibrant dish over a bed of fluffy rice, squeeze some fresh lime juice on top, and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavor.
This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients coming together in harmony. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week, this Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking — happiness is just a stir fry away!
Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Chop the red bell pepper, slice green onions, and mince the garlic and ginger. Set everything aside and keep them within reach for quick assembly.
- In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of peanut oil over medium-high heat until it's shimmering. This will give your stir fry a lovely nutty flavor.
- Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, stirring frequently. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped red bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha, sesame oil, and corn starch. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables, and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the honey-roasted peanuts and chopped cilantro, mixing well until everything is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
- Spoon the stir fry over hot cooked rice and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Cilantro Chicken Stir Fry!
Notes
- Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for better browning.
- Feel free to switch out the honey-roasted peanuts for plain or spicy peanuts, depending on your taste.
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
