Looking for a quick, tasty meal that feels both fresh and satisfying? This stir fried chicken and bok choy recipe is just what you need.
It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any night when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll love how the tender chicken pairs with the crisp, vibrant bok choy, all brought together by a savory sauce that wakes up your taste buds.
Keep reading, and you’ll discover an easy step-by-step guide to create this delicious dish at home—ready in no time!
Ingredients You Need
To make a tasty stir fried chicken and bok choy, gather the right ingredients. Fresh and good quality items bring out the best flavors. This section explains what you need for a simple and delicious dish.
Start with the main ingredients. Then, select the sauces and spices that add depth and taste. Careful choices help your recipe shine every time.
Chicken Selection Tips
Choose chicken breast or thigh for stir frying. Breast cooks quickly and stays tender. Thigh has more flavor and stays juicy. Cut the chicken into thin strips for even cooking. Fresh chicken has a pink color and smells clean. Avoid chicken that looks dull or smells bad.
Choosing Fresh Bok Choy
Pick bok choy with firm stalks and bright green leaves. Avoid yellow or wilted leaves. Smaller bok choy is tender and cooks faster. Wash the bok choy well to remove dirt. Chop the stalks and leaves into bite-size pieces for easy cooking.
Essential Sauces And Spices
Use soy sauce for a salty, savory base. Oyster sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor. Garlic and ginger bring fresh, spicy notes. A pinch of black pepper enhances taste without heat. Add a little sugar to balance salty flavors. These simple ingredients create a delicious sauce.
Preparation Steps
Preparing stir fried chicken and bok choy starts with simple, clear steps. Each ingredient needs the right prep to cook quickly and taste great. This section breaks down the process into easy parts. Follow along to get your dish ready fast and fresh.
Prepping The Chicken
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut the chicken into thin, bite-sized strips. This helps the meat cook evenly and stay tender. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel. Dry chicken browns better and avoids steaming. Season lightly with salt and pepper before cooking.
Cleaning And Cutting Bok Choy
Rinse bok choy under cold water to remove dirt. Focus on the base where soil hides. Separate the leaves from the stalks. Cut the stalks into 1-inch pieces for quick cooking. Chop the leaves into larger pieces. Leaves cook faster and add color and texture.
Making The Stir-fry Sauce
Mix soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of sugar. Add a splash of sesame oil for aroma. Use cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients smoothly. The sauce should taste balanced—savory with a hint of sweetness.
Cooking Process
The cooking process for stir fried chicken and bok choy is quick and straightforward. This dish comes together fast, so preparation and timing matter. Using the right heat and pan helps to cook the ingredients perfectly. The chicken needs to be tender and juicy. The bok choy should stay crisp and fresh. Each step builds flavor and texture for a delicious meal.
Heat And Pan Choice
Use a wok or a large skillet for even heat. High heat is key to stir frying. It cooks food quickly without making it soggy. Preheat the pan until very hot before adding oil. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or peanut oil. This prevents burning and keeps flavors clean.
Cooking Chicken Perfectly
Cut chicken into small, even pieces for fast cooking. Add chicken to the hot pan in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan to help the chicken brown nicely. Stir often to cook all sides evenly. Cook the chicken until it turns white and is no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside before adding vegetables.
Adding And Stir-frying Bok Choy
Add bok choy to the hot pan after chicken. Stir-fry quickly to keep bok choy crisp and bright. Cook leaves until wilted but still green. The stems should be tender but firm. Return chicken to the pan and toss everything together. This mixes flavors and finishes the dish perfectly.
Credit: barefeetinthekitchen.com
Serving Suggestions
Serving stir fried chicken and bok choy offers many tasty options. This dish is light but full of flavor. It pairs well with simple sides and fresh garnishes. Drinks can enhance the meal and make it more enjoyable.
Best Side Dishes
Steamed white rice is a classic choice. It soaks up the sauce and balances the flavors. Fried rice adds a bit more texture and taste. Noodles, like lo mein or rice noodles, work well too. For a lighter option, try a simple cucumber salad. Roasted sweet potatoes bring a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
Garnishing Ideas
Chopped green onions add color and crunch. Toasted sesame seeds give a nutty flavor and a nice finish. Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with its aroma. Thin slices of red chili add a mild heat and vibrant look. A drizzle of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime can boost the taste before serving.
Pairing With Drinks
Green tea cleanses the palate and refreshes. A light beer complements the savory and slightly sweet flavors. White wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with chicken. Sparkling water with a splash of lemon offers a simple, crisp option. Avoid heavy or very sweet drinks that may overpower the dish.
Health Benefits
Stir fried chicken and bok choy is a dish full of good nutrients. It supports a strong body and keeps energy levels high. This meal is perfect for those wanting to eat healthy without losing flavor.
Each ingredient adds unique health perks. Together, they make a balanced and nourishing meal. Let’s explore the benefits of chicken and bok choy.
Nutritional Value Of Chicken
Chicken is a great source of lean protein. Protein helps build muscles and repair tissues. It also keeps you feeling full longer. Chicken provides important vitamins like B6 and niacin. These vitamins help the body use energy well. Low in fat, chicken supports heart health too.
Benefits Of Bok Choy
Bok choy is a green leafy vegetable rich in vitamins. It offers vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. Vitamin K in bok choy helps with blood clotting. It also contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage. Bok choy is low in calories and high in fiber. Fiber aids digestion and keeps you full.
Why This Recipe Is Healthy
This recipe combines protein and vegetables for a balanced meal. Stir frying uses little oil, keeping fat low. Quick cooking preserves vitamins and minerals. The dish is rich in nutrients but light on calories. It helps maintain energy without feeling heavy. Perfect for a healthy and tasty meal.
Credit: amindfullmom.com
Tips For Variations
Stir fried chicken and bok choy is a flexible dish. You can change it easily to suit your taste. Small changes can make the meal exciting every time you cook it. Here are some ideas to try different versions of this recipe.
Alternative Proteins
Try using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. Tofu works well for a vegetarian option. Pork or beef strips add a richer flavor. Use thin slices for quick cooking. Each protein changes the dish’s texture and taste.
Spice Level Adjustments
Add chili flakes or fresh chili to increase heat. Use less or no chili to keep it mild. A dash of black pepper also adds gentle spice. Balance heat with a little sugar or honey. Adjust spices to match your family’s preference.
Adding Extra Vegetables
Carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas add color and crunch. Mushrooms bring an earthy flavor. Broccoli florets make the dish more filling. Cut vegetables into bite-size pieces for even cooking. More veggies boost nutrition and taste.
Credit: lowcarbyum.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Are Needed For Stir Fried Chicken And Bok Choy?
You need chicken breast, bok choy, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and cooking oil. Optional ingredients include sesame oil and chili flakes for extra flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Cook This Stir Fry?
This dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. Quick cooking ensures tender chicken and crisp bok choy.
Can I Use Frozen Bok Choy For This Recipe?
Yes, frozen bok choy works well but may release more water. Drain excess liquid to avoid soggy stir fry.
What Is The Best Sauce For Chicken And Bok Choy?
A mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger is ideal. This combination adds savory and aromatic flavors to the dish.
Conclusion
This stir fried chicken and bok choy recipe is quick and tasty. You can make it with simple ingredients at home. It offers a healthy and balanced meal in minutes. The mix of chicken and fresh bok choy brings great flavor and texture.
Perfect for busy days or a light dinner. Try this recipe to enjoy a delicious, easy-to-cook dish. Cooking does not need to be hard or take long. Give it a go and enjoy your meal!
