Ginger-Lime Chicken Stir-fry
A vibrant and healthy weeknight dinner, this Ginger-Lime Chicken Stir-fry features tender chicken breast and crisp-tender vegetables coated in a bright, savory, and slightly sweet sauce infused with fresh ginger and zesty lime.
For 4 servings
**Prep Chicken & Sauce**: Cut chicken breast into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, grated fresh ginger, cornstarch, honey (or maple syrup), water (or chicken broth), and sesame oil. Set aside.
**Prep Vegetables**: Mince garlic. Cut broccoli into small florets. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips. Julienne or thinly slice the carrot.
**Cook Chicken**: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the wok and set aside.
**Sauté Aromatics & Veggies**: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
**Combine & Sauce**: Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Give the prepared sauce a quick whisk again (cornstarch settles) and pour it evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
**Thicken & Serve**: Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients evenly.
**Garnish & Enjoy**: Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**High Heat is Key**: For a true stir-fry, ensure your wok or pan is very hot before adding ingredients. This creates a good sear and prevents steaming, leading to crispier vegetables and better-browned chicken.
- 2**Don't Overcrowd**: Cook chicken and vegetables in batches if necessary to avoid lowering the pan temperature. Overcrowding can cause ingredients to steam rather than stir-fry, resulting in soggy results.
- 3**Prep Ahead (Mise en Place)**: Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you start cooking, as stir-fries cook very quickly and require constant attention.
- 4**Adjust Sweetness/Sourness**: Taste the sauce before adding it to the wok. Adjust honey for sweetness or lime juice for tanginess to suit your personal preference.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Easily substitute chicken with shrimp, firm tofu (pressed and cubed), or thinly sliced beef sirloin strips. Adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks faster, while beef may require slightly longer.
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Experiment with other quick-cooking vegetables such as snap peas, sliced mushrooms, baby corn, water chestnuts, or bok choy to vary the texture and nutritional profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For those who enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce along with the other ingredients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
Rich in Vitamins & Antioxidants
Broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots are packed with vital nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and various antioxidants, supporting immune function, vision, and overall cellular health.
Anti-inflammatory Ginger
Fresh ginger is well-regarded for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce muscle pain and soreness, aid digestion, and contribute to a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, absolutely! To make this stir-fry gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
