High-Protein Chicken Stir-Fry

A vibrant, nutrient-packed salad bowl combining tender stir-fried chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and a zesty sesame-ginger dressing. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household because of its fresh flavors and effortless preparation time.

Ingredients

• Protein: 500 g (1.1 lb) skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized strips
• Marinade: 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) 1 tbsp sesame oil 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced 2 medium carrots, julienned 100 g (3.5 oz) sugar snap peas, trimmed 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach 4 spring onions, sliced 1 small cucumber, sliced
• Dressing: 2 tbsp rice vinegar 1 tbsp sesame oil 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari) 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• Toppings: 2 tbsp toasted cashews or peanuts, roughly chopped 1 tbsp fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped 1 tsp black sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Marinate Chicken:

In a bowl, combine chicken strips with soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Toss to coat and let marinate for 10 minutes.

Stir-Fry Chicken:

Heat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Cook Vegetables:

In the same pan, add bell peppers, carrots, and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.

Prepare Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients.

Assemble Salad:

Divide baby spinach and cucumber among 4 bowls. Top with cooked chicken, stir-fried vegetables, and spring onions.

Serve:

Drizzle with the sesame-ginger dressing. Sprinkle with nuts, coriander, and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

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This salad bowl always brings my family together around the table, sharing laughs and enjoying a nutritious meal.

Required Tools

Large non-stick skillet or wok Mixing bowls Chefs knife and cutting board Whisk

Allergen Information

Contains soy (soy sauce), sesame, and nuts (cashews/peanuts). For nut-free: omit nuts or use roasted chickpeas. For gluten-free: use tamari instead of soy sauce. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 340 Total Fat: 14 g Carbohydrates: 17 g Protein: 36 g (per serving)

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Enjoy this wholesome meal packed with flavors and nutrients any day of the week.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I substitute chicken with plant-based protein?

Yes, firm tofu or tempeh work well as alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan option.

→ What vegetables provide the best texture in this dish?

Bell peppers, carrots, and sugar snap peas add vibrant color and a crisp, fresh crunch when stir-fried gently.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out during cooking?

Marinate the chicken beforehand and cook it over medium-high heat for just 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

→ What is the purpose of the sesame-ginger dressing?

The dressing adds a zesty, nutty flavor that complements the stir-fried chicken and fresh vegetables, enhancing the overall taste experience.

→ What toppings add texture and flavor?

Toasted cashews or peanuts and fresh coriander brighten the bowl with crunch and herbal notes.