Ginger Chicken Stir-fry

Ginger Chicken Stir-fry Recipe from China with Teriyaki Sauce and Brown Rice

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ginger Chicken Stir-fry is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a medley of vegetables in a savory ginger sauce. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.

History

The origins of Ginger Chicken Stir-fry can be traced back to traditional Chinese cuisine, where stir-frying is a popular cooking technique. The combination of ginger, soy sauce, and vegetables creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

0.25 cup teriyaki sauce
0.25 cup water
1 lb (454 g) skinned and boned chicken breasts, cut into 1.5 inch pieces
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, cut into eight wedges
1 x 16 oz (454 g) package frozen broccoli, cauliflower and carrot mixture
0.5 tsp ground ginger
0.33 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water
3 cup hot cooked brown rice

How to prepare

Combine teriyaki sauce and water in a shallow baking dish. Add chicken pieces and coat them well.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for two hours. Drain the marinade from the chicken pieces.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok. Stir-fry the chicken and onion until the chicken is lightly browned.
Stir in the frozen vegetables, ginger, and wine. Cover and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water until smooth.
Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Serve the dish over hot rice.

Variations

Substitute tofu or shrimp for the chicken for a vegetarian or seafood version of this dish.
Add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
Experiment with different sauces such as hoisin or oyster sauce for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least two hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use a hot skillet or wok to quickly stir-fry the chicken and vegetables, ensuring that they cook evenly and retain their crisp texture.

- Be careful not to overcook the vegetables, as they should be tender-crisp for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Ginger Chicken Stir-fry can be served over hot cooked brown rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the key cooking technique used in this recipe, which involves quickly cooking ingredients in a hot skillet or wok over high heat. This method helps to retain the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients while creating a delicious and aromatic dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for teriyaki sauce.

- Swap out the frozen carrot mixture for fresh or canned vegetables of your choice.

- Replace the chicken with beef, pork, or tofu for a different protein option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can help to save time and make meal preparation easier.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ginger Chicken Stir-fry in a large serving bowl or on individual plates, garnished with fresh herbs or sesame seeds for a decorative touch. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light and refreshing white wine such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Ginger Chicken Stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat in a skillet until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent the dish from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ginger Chicken Stir-fry contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ginger Chicken Stir-fry contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the brown rice and vegetables in the dish.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 10 grams of fat, mainly from the vegetable oil used for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.

Proteins

Ginger Chicken Stir-fry is a good source of protein, with each serving providing about 25 grams of protein from the chicken and vegetables.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A from the carrots and onions, as well as vitamin C from the vegetables. It also contains essential minerals such as iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten and soy allergens. It is important to check the labels of the ingredients used to ensure they are safe for individuals with food allergies.

Summary

Overall, Ginger Chicken Stir-fry is a nutritious and well-balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Ginger Chicken Stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, this dish is satisfying and delicious. Experiment with different variations and ingredients to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Ginger Chicken Stir-fry. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, the aromatic scent of ginger and garlic filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, before bustling back to the stove to tend to a sizzling pan of chicken and vegetables. Curious about what she was making, I peered over her shoulder and watched as she deftly tossed the ingredients in the pan, the colors and textures blending together in a beautiful symphony of flavors.

As Margaret cooked, she shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me that she had learned it from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. The secret, she said, was in the marinade - a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey that infused the chicken with a rich, savory flavor.

I was captivated by Margaret's skill and passion for cooking, and I knew that I had to learn this recipe for myself. So, I asked her if she would be willing to teach me, and she happily agreed.

Over the next few hours, Margaret guided me through the steps of preparing the Ginger Chicken Stir-fry. She showed me how to marinate the chicken, chop the vegetables, and stir-fry everything together in a hot pan until it was cooked to perfection. As we cooked together, she shared with me her tips and tricks for getting the flavors just right, from adjusting the seasonings to knowing when the chicken was cooked through.

By the time we sat down to eat, I was buzzing with excitement. The dish was everything I had hoped for and more - tender, flavorful chicken paired with crisp vegetables and a rich, aromatic sauce that left me craving more. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

From that day on, Ginger Chicken Stir-fry became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, each time adding my own twist to the recipe - a dash of spice here, a squeeze of lemon there. And with each batch, I felt a connection to Margaret and her grandmother, knowing that their love and tradition lived on through this simple, yet delicious dish.

As the years passed, I continued to make Ginger Chicken Stir-fry, sharing it with anyone who would listen. I taught my children how to make it, passing down the recipe just as Margaret had done for me. And every time I cooked it, I felt a sense of pride and joy, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had brought me so much happiness.

To this day, Ginger Chicken Stir-fry remains one of my favorite recipes. It reminds me of Margaret, her warm kitchen, and the love and laughter we shared that day. And whenever I make it, I am transported back to that moment of discovery, when I stumbled upon a recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.