Honey Chicken and Asparagus Stir Fry

It’s another hot and sticky day here in Vancouver, so it’s tempting to stay indoors and do nothing.  I usually try to go for a walk in the afternoon, but to combat the heat I’ve been going for my daily walks early in the mornings when it is nice and cool.  How about cooking? I had to find a recipe that required less time and energy to make, so I dug into my collection.  Here’s what I found – honey chicken and asparagus stir fry – chicken dish that is easy to make, delicious and healthy too.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Stir Fry

To achieve a great stir fry, the key is to have everything prepped and ready to go. Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinating it for at least 15 minutes. Use a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a little garlic for a flavorful marinade. When you’re ready to cook, make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding any ingredients. This helps to sear the chicken and gives it a nice texture. Cook the chicken in batches if your pan is small. This prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and add the asparagus. Stir fry it for a few minutes before adding the chicken back in. This way, you get perfectly tender-crisp asparagus that complements the chicken well.

Ingredient Notes

Choosing the right ingredients can elevate your honey chicken and asparagus stir fry. Opt for fresh asparagus, as it will have a better crunch and flavor. Look for bright green stalks with firm tips. For the chicken, boneless, skinless thighs work well if you prefer darker meat, while breasts are a leaner option. Honey is the star of this dish, so use a high-quality, natural honey for the best taste. If you want to add a little kick, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes or fresh ginger. These ingredients can enhance the dish without overpowering it. Don’t forget to have some sesame oil on hand, as a drizzle at the end adds a nutty flavor that ties everything together.

Serving Suggestions

This honey chicken and asparagus stir fry is versatile when it comes to serving. If you want to keep it light, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the delicious sauce and make the meal more filling. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great substitute that pairs well with the flavors. Garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped green onions can add a nice touch. If you have leftovers, consider turning them into a wrap by placing the stir fry in a tortilla with some fresh veggies. This can make for a quick lunch the next day. Pairing the dish with a light salad can also balance the meal, giving you a refreshing side with crispy greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for dry white wine?

If you want to skip the wine, just use extra chicken broth. It’ll add moisture and flavor without altering the dish too much.

How should I store leftovers?

Let the stir fry cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It should be good in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and asparagus ahead of time by cutting them up and marinating the chicken. Just cook it all when you’re ready to eat.

What sides pair well with honey chicken and asparagus stir fry?

Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. A light salad on the side can also freshen things up.

What common mistakes should I avoid when making stir fry?

Overcrowding the pan is a big one, as it can lead to steaming instead of frying. Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients, and cook in batches if necessary.

Honey Chicken and Asparagus Stir Fry

Liza Agbanlog

Honey chicken and asparagus stir fry brings together tender chicken and crisp asparagus in a sweet and savory sauce, making weeknight dinners a breeze and super tasty.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4 servings

Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/3 cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups 1-inch pieces asparagus
• 2 medium tomatoes cut into thin wedges
• 1 can 15 ounces whole straw mushrooms, drained

Instructions

 

• Toss chicken and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Mix broth, wine, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, mustard and pepper.
• Heat 1 tablespoon oil and stir fry chicken for 4 minutes or until no longer pink in center. Remove chicken and set aside.
• Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to skillet. Add asparagus and stir fry for about 3 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender.
• Add broth mixture; cook and stir until mixture has thickened.
• Add chicken, tomatoes and mushrooms. Cook about 2 minutes or until heated through. Serve over rice.
• Enjoy!

Notes

Adapted from Betty Crocker’s “Easy Chinese”

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8g

Keyword asparagus, chicken, honey, quick meal, stir fry

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