Looking for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This Ginger Chicken Asparagus Stir-Fry is just the dish you need. Bursting with the warmth of fresh ginger, tender chicken, and the crunch of fresh asparagus, this stir-fry offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With a savory-sweet sauce that brings a subtle kick from chili garlic, this dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe when time is short but you still want something wholesome and satisfying.
Ingredients:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 ounces crimini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons of canola oil (or another high-heat oil of your choice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger root
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (adjust according to your heat preference)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce. Set the sauce aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onions and cook for 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus to the pan, and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Remove the stir-fry from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or on its own for a low-carb option. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Conclusion:
This Ginger Chicken Asparagus Stir-Fry is a simple yet vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. The combination of fresh ginger and garlic creates a fragrant base, while the vegetables provide a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re a fan of meal prepping or need a quick dinner solution, this stir-fry delivers a healthy and delicious meal that everyone will love. Customize the level of spice to your preference and enjoy the balance of sweet, savory, and spicy in each bite!