Stir-fries provide a tasty method to combine a variety of vegetables, protein, and strong tastes in a single skillet, making them the ideal quick and simple dinner option. They’re ideal for hectic evenings when you don’t have time to spend in the kitchen preparing a tasty and nourishing supper. These three quick stir-fries are perfect for midweek dinners because they come together quickly.
1. Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
A classic stir-fry with tender chicken and a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish is a family favorite. It’s simple, quick, and packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, return the chicken to the pan and pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Serve the stir-fry over rice and enjoy!
2. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Beef and broccoli is a favorite for many, offering a satisfying combination of protein and greens. This stir-fry brings together the rich flavor of beef with the crunchiness of broccoli in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the broccoli and a splash of water. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and vibrant green.
- Add the garlic and ginger to the pan, cooking for another minute. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar, and return the beef to the pan. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.
- Serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry over rice for a delicious, satisfying meal.
3. Tofu and Cashew Stir-Fry
For a vegetarian option, this tofu and cashew stir-fry is packed with protein, crunch, and flavor. The tofu takes on a beautiful golden color and crispy texture, while the cashews add a nice crunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1/2 cup cashews
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tofu and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the bell pepper, snap peas, and cashews. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the cashews are lightly toasted.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, peanut butter, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Pour the sauce over the tofu and vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve the stir-fry over rice, garnished with additional cashews if desired.
In addition to being quick, these three quick stir-fries are bursting with flavorful, fresh ingredients. They are a great evening supper choice for hectic families or anybody searching for a tasty, wholesome meal because they need little preparation and just require one pan to clean.