Stir Fried Chicken with Vegetables

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:
2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless), sliced into thin strips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
1 bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 medium onion, sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated

For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for deeper umami flavor)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for a sweeter finish)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chili paste (optional for spice)
1/4 cup water or chicken broth

Optional Additions:
Mushrooms (shiitake, button, or oyster)
Baby corn or snap peas for added crunch
Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
A sprinkle of sesame seeds for texture
A dash of toasted sesame oil for extra flavor
Cashews or peanuts for a nutty contrast

Directions

Slice the chicken into thin strips. Prepare the vegetables by slicing the bell pepper, onion, carrot, zucchini, and chopping the broccoli into florets. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chili flakes, and water or broth. If using cornstarch, mix it in with a little water to create a slurry.

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bell pepper, onion, carrot, zucchini, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Return the chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.