Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This vibrant and savory dish combines **tender chicken** with a medley of fresh vegetables, enhanced by a kick of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the spicy chicken and vegetable stir-fry is both delicious and satisfying. The **crunchy texture** of cauliflower and green peppers complements the juicy cherry tomatoes and spicy green chilies, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, and BBQ spices, this dish is a delightful explosion of tastes. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal recipe even for those new to cooking. It's incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair it with your choice of side, such as pasta, rice, or even quinoa. Its visual appeal, thanks to the colorful array of ingredients, makes it a show-stopper on any dining table. Rich in protein and packed with vegetables, it's a wholesome option that caters to both health and taste preferences. Serve it as a standalone meal or as part of a larger banquet, it fits perfectly in any setting.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 600 g chicken breast, cubed
- 1/4 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 green chili peppers, chopped
- 250 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- BBQ spice blend
- Cooking oil
Preparation Time
30 minutes (includes preparation and cooking time)
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Begin by cutting the chicken breast into small cubes. This will ensure quick and even cooking.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken to the pan and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and BBQ spices. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken browns evenly on all sides.
- While the chicken is cooking, dice the green bell peppers and cut the cauliflower into small florets.
- Add the diced peppers and cauliflower florets to the pan with the chicken. Stir them in and allow them to sauté gently, absorbing the spices and cooking juices.
- While the vegetables are cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the green chili peppers.
- Add the tomatoes and chilies to the pan, along with an additional dash of BBQ spices for more flavor.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to distribute all the ingredients evenly.
- Allow the vegetables to cook until they are tender but still crisp, and the chicken is fully cooked. This should be approximately 5-7 minutes longer.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Once everything is cooked through and well incorporated, remove the pan from the heat.
- Serve the stir-fry hot over a bed of your favorite side dish.
- For a touch more flavor, drizzle a bit more oil or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving.
- Enjoy the spicy, savory goodness of this dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
- Reheat any remaining stir-fry thoroughly before consuming to ensure safety.
- Experiment with adding other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or spinach, to vary the texture and nutrition.
- Remember to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the number of chili peppers you use depending on your preferred spice level.
- Conclude your meal by garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an added pop of color.
Tips
- Substitution: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor or to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of chili peppers to control the heat.
- Browning: Ensure the pan and oil are hot before adding chicken to achieve a nice sear.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fats: 14g
- Carbs: 18g
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
- Low Carb: Serve with zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or whole-wheat pasta.
- For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Best Places
- ABC Kitchen - Known for its organic farm-to-table dishes and rustic ambiance. Location: 35 E 18th St, New York, USA.
- The Spicy Olive - Offers a wide range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Location: 71 Rue de Grenelle, Paris, France.
- Hot Wok - Popular for its spicy Asian fusion dishes and contemporary decor. Location: 76A Brick Lane, London, UK.
- The Green Bowl - Celebrated for its healthy vegan and vegetarian options. Location: 12 Siming S Rd, Xiamen, China.
- Chili House - Famous for spicy and flavorful dishes with a modern twist. Location: 136 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong.
- Pepper & Spice - A fusion of spicy culinary traditions in a cozy setting. Location: 54B St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, Australia.
- Fiesta Taste - Offers a festive atmosphere with bold, spicy flavors. Location: 422 King St W, Toronto, Canada.
- Casa del Sol - Known for its vibrant Mexican dishes and lively decor. Location: 819 S 1st Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
- Urban Spice - A contemporary space offering a diverse menu focused on spice-infused recipes. Location: 40 Stanley Ave, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Saffron Touch - Offers a blend of traditional and modern dishes with an exciting kick. Location: 23 Via Giovanni Giolitti, Rome, Italy.