Stir fry dishes are a staple in many households due to their quick preparation time, vibrant flavors, and versatility. This Shrimp and Chicken Stir Fry is no exception, combining tender slices of chicken breast with juicy shrimp and an assortment of fresh vegetables. The dish is elevated by a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of honey, making it a delightful and balanced meal. Serve this stir fry over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 200g chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
- Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Peel and devein the shrimp, then set them aside. Slice the red and green bell peppers into strips, julienne the carrots, and slice the onion. Mince the garlic and ginger to have them ready.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken. Stir-fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes, or until it is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the chicken.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sliced onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The vegetables should still have a bit of crunch to them, which adds a nice texture to the dish.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and sesame oil. This sauce will coat the stir fry, adding a rich, umami flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until the chicken, shrimp, and vegetables are well-coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve: Taste the stir fry and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the stir fry over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. For an added layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
- Garnish and Enjoy: For a final touch, garnish the stir fry with additional sesame seeds and fresh green onions. This adds a slight nuttiness and a pop of color to the dish.
Tips for Success:
- Ingredient Prep: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking is crucial for a successful stir fry, as the cooking process is quick and requires constant attention.
- High Heat: Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the ingredients. This helps achieve a nice sear on the meat and vegetables, adding depth of flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Both shrimp and vegetables can become overcooked quickly. Cook them just until they’re done to maintain the perfect texture.This Shrimp and Chicken Stir Fry is a perfect example of a quick and nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and vibrant vegetables makes this dish both visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re serving it over rice or noodles, this stir fry is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
