Description
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp sriracha (optional for extra heat)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Bok Choy Stir-Fry:
3 cups baby bok choy, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
In a bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and sriracha. Add the sliced chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and
set aside.
In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped bok choy, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bok choy is tender but still crisp.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing everything together for another minute.
Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 320 per serving Servings: 2 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, slice your chicken breasts against the grain into uniform strips for even cooking. Whisk the marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. While the chicken marinates, prepare all your vegetables and aromatics. When cooking, ensure your pan is properly heated before adding the oil and chicken to get a good sear. Cook the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. For the bok choy, add the thicker stems first, followed by the leafy greens a minute later to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This flavorful stir-fry is incredibly versatile. For a classic pairing, serve it over steamed jasmine or brown rice. It also works wonderfully with noodles like udon, ramen, or rice noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish comes together in three key stages: 1) Marinate sliced chicken in a sweet, spicy, and savory sauce. 2) Cook the chicken until golden and set aside. 3) In the same pan, quickly stir-fry aromatics and bok choy before combining everything. The entire process takes about 25 minutes for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. This marinade works great with shrimp, firm tofu, or thinly sliced beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos in place of the soy sauce, and double-check your sweet chili sauce label.
My bok choy is very watery. What happened? This usually occurs from overcooking. Bok choy should be cooked quickly over high heat until just wilted but still crisp-tender.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time? Yes, the marinade can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but no longer than 4 hours to prevent the texture from becoming mushy.
What can I substitute for bok choy? Other quick-cooking greens like baby spinach, kale, or napa cabbage are excellent substitutes. Add spinach at the very end, just until wilted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best stir-fry. Do not skip marinating time, as it’s crucial for flavor. Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken, as this steams instead of sears the meat. Ensure your garlic and ginger do not burn when sautéing; cook them for only 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not overcook the bok choy—it should retain a pleasant crunch. Finally, do not add the marinade used for the raw chicken back into the cooked food without boiling it first to avoid cross-contamination.
Conclusion
This Sweet Chili Chicken and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create a meal that is far greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a perfect weeknight solution that is fast, flavorful, and nutritious. Mastering the quick stir-fry technique opens the door to endless variations, allowing you to use seasonal vegetables or adjust the spice level to your taste. We hope this enhanced guide helps you create a delicious and satisfying dish with confidence.
