Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry

Easy Chicken Asparagus Stir Fry

This recipe is a quick and healthy weeknight meal packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped scallions or white sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Guide:

1. Marinate the chicken (optional): In a bowl, combine the chicken, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Marinate for 15 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
2. Heat the oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the asparagus: Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken (discarding marinade if used) to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Sauté the aromatics: Add the garlic and ginger (if using) to the pan and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, remaining soy sauce, cornstarch, honey or brown sugar, and sesame oil.
7. Simmer and thicken: Pour the sauce into the pan with the chicken. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
8. Combine and serve: Return the asparagus to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions or white sesame seeds (optional) and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips:

• Chicken prep: Partially freezing the chicken breasts for 20-30 minutes before slicing will make them easier to cut into thin, even pieces. Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Tender-crisp asparagus: Don’t overcook the asparagus! It should be bright green and tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Sauce variations: For a spicier stir-fry, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute brown sugar for honey, or add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
• Protein alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
• Serve with: This stir-fry pairs well with cooked rice, noodles, or quinoa. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for a more complete meal.