1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into thin strips
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
For the stir-fry sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the stir-fry:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
1 medium onion, sliced thin
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced into strips (you can use any color)
1 carrot, julienned or sliced thinly
1 zucchini, sliced or julienned
1 cup broccoli florets (or other vegetables like snow peas, mushrooms, or baby corn)
Fresh herbs (like cilantro or green onions for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the chicken:
In a bowl, mix the chicken strips with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil (if using). Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
Make the stir-fry sauce:
In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, chicken broth (or water), cornstarch, and sesame oil. Whisk until the cornstarch dissolves and the sauce is well-mixed. Set aside.
Stir-fry the chicken:
Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Stir-fry the vegetables:
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli (or other vegetables). Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Combine:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over everything and toss to coat evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
Serve:
Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions if desired. This goes well with steamed rice or noodles.