Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Snap Peas & Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil; 1 cup snap peas, trimmed; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 small onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 zest of 1 lemon; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish; 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice; 3 cups water; 1 tbsp butter or oil; Salt, to taste (optional)

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Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Snap Peas & Rice is a delightful and vibrant dish that perfectly combines savory and zesty flavors. This stir-fry brings a refreshing twist to your weeknight dinner, making it not just nourishing but also exciting with every bite. The juicy chicken, crunchy snap peas, and a rich lemon garlic sauce come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare.

why make this recipe

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and nutrition! The use of fresh ingredients like bell peppers, snap peas, and zesty lemon juice elevates this dish beyond the usual stir-fry. It’s a great option for busy weeknights since it can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to tweak ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish will impress everyone at the table!

how to make Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Snap Peas & Rice

Ingredients :

1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
1 cup snap peas, trimmed
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 small onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
1 1/2 cups jasmine rice (optional)
3 cups water (optional)
1 tbsp butter or oil (optional)
Salt, to taste (optional)

Directions :

Cook the Rice (optional): Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the chicken and veggies in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Serve: Serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry over a bed of rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

how to serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Snap Peas & Rice

This stir-fry can be served immediately as it is best enjoyed fresh! Serve it over steamed jasmine rice or your choice of grain. If desired, add a side of sesame seeds or extra lemon wedges for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a refreshing salad or some crunchy spring rolls to create a complete meal.

how to store Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Snap Peas & Rice

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. For longer storage, consider freezing the stir-fry without the rice, as cooked rice tends to not freeze well. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

tips to make Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Snap Peas & Rice

Cut Ingredients Uniformly: To ensure even cooking, try to cut the chicken and vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs can elevate the flavor and texture of your dish significantly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken or vegetables, cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying.
Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the amount of soy sauce or honey based on your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add some chili sauce.

variation

There are countless variations you can try with this Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry. Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. You can also mix in your favorite seasonal veggies, such as zucchini, carrots, or broccoli. Additionally, replacing jasmine rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice can provide a unique twist and cater to different dietary preferences.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. However, it’s best to cook and serve the stir-fry fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy-free option, you can use coconut aminos or tamari as a gluten-free alternative.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to suit your taste or to use up what you have on hand.