Chicken Walnut Stir-Fry

Chicken Walnut Stir-Fry: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy mom of three, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pickups, soccer practice, and endless homework sessions, the last thing I want is to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s why I rely on quick, easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Chicken Walnut Stir-Fry is one of my absolute go-to meals – it's ready in under 30 minutes (not including marinating time), packed with flavor, and the whole family loves it!

The secret to this stir-fry's success lies in the perfectly balanced sauce. A blend of soy sauce, ginger, and cornstarch creates a rich, savory coating for the chicken that's both satisfying and slightly sweet. The addition of crunchy walnuts adds a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. And because I’m always looking for ways to sneak in extra veggies, I usually add a handful of sliced bell peppers or snow peas alongside the broccoli for added color and nutrition.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you could substitute cashews, peanuts, or even toasted sesame seeds. The possibilities are endless!

I often make a double batch of this stir-fry on the weekends and store half in the refrigerator for a quick and easy lunch or dinner during the busy week. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as delicious the next day. It's also a great meal prep option for those who prefer to prepare their meals in advance. Simply portion the stir-fry into individual containers and grab one whenever you need a healthy and satisfying meal.

Beyond the convenience and deliciousness, this Chicken Walnut Stir-Fry is also a relatively healthy option. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the broccoli and walnuts, and plenty of essential vitamins and minerals. Serving it over brown rice adds even more nutritional value. Brown rice is a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy throughout the day.

This stir-fry is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and efficient cooking. It's a perfect example of how a busy mom can still put a healthy and delicious dinner on the table without sacrificing precious time or energy. I hope you'll give it a try and make it your new weeknight favorite!

Serving suggestions: I love to serve this stir-fry over brown rice, but it also pairs well with quinoa, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions adds a finishing touch of freshness and flavor.

Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until heated through.

Variations: Get creative! Add other vegetables, nuts, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick. You can also marinate the chicken for a longer period if you have the time – the longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

So ditch the takeout menus and try this easy, delicious, and healthy Chicken Walnut Stir-Fry. Your family will thank you for it!

Step-by-step

• Mix 1 T. oil, 2 t. soy sauce and 1 t. cornstarch together. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• Mix the chicken broth, ginger, 3 t. soy sauce and 2 t. cornstarch together and set aside.
• Heat 4 T. oil in a wok or large non-stick skillet, over medium heat. Add the chicken mixture and crushed red pepper. Stir-fry until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate.
• Add onion and garlic to the pan. Stir-fry on medium-high until translucent.
• Add the broccoli and stir-fry until tender.
• Add chicken and broth mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
• Stir in walnuts.
• It's ready to serve. I like to serve it over rice. Enjoy!