Dad'S Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and crunchy cashews, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In wok, sauté chicken in peanut oil until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add vegetables and stir-fry until heated through.
- Add soy sauce to taste.
- Cashews can be added with vegetables if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more colorful stir-fry, feel free to add bell peppers or carrots. If you want a lighter option, substitute the cashews with toasted almonds or omit them altogether. Using a high smoke point oil like peanut oil is essential for the best stir-fry texture. For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger beforehand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dad's Stir-Fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Tomato Fried Rice for a delightful twist. You can add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for garnish and extra flavor, or serve with a side of pickled vegetables for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Stir-Fry contains roughly 1224 calories, with 7g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 132g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 670mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables for this stir-fry?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in stir-fries. Just add them when you would add the fresh vegetables, but be mindful that they may release more moisture. If using frozen, consider reducing the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What type of soy sauce should I use?
You can use either light or dark soy sauce, depending on your preference. Light soy sauce is saltier and less viscous, while dark soy sauce adds a richer flavor and color. For a gluten-free option, look for tamari.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken a few hours in advance. Just remember to stir-fry it just before serving to maintain the crispness of the veggies.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).