Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Stir Fry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For the Apricot Sauce
- 1/2 cup apricot jam or preserves
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 cup chicken stock (or water)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
For Serving
- Steamed rice or noodles
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the chicken strips, soy sauce, cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of oil. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.
2. Make the Apricot Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (if using), chicken stock, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
3. Stir Fry the Chicken
- Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Stir fry for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables
- In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot.
- Stir fry for 2–3 minutes, keeping the vegetables crisp and vibrant.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the wok.
- Pour the prepared apricot sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Serve the apricot chicken stir fry over steamed rice or noodles.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook it quickly over high heat to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Keep the vegetables crisp by stir-frying them briefly.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced red chilies to the stir fry.
- Make It Healthier: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the honey for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or egg noodles.
- Pair with a side of stir-fried bok choy or steamed broccoli for extra greens.
Why You’ll Love It
This Apricot Chicken Stir Fry is:
✅ Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Sweet, savory, and tangy
✅ Packed with protein and vegetables
✅ Family-friendly and perfect for meal prep
