Fragrant Lemongrass Coconut Chicken Stir Fry
Indulge in the tantalizing aroma and vibrant flavors of this fragrant lemongrass coconut chicken stir fry. This flavorful dish combines the zesty kick of lemongrass, the sweet creaminess of coconut, and the tender succulence of chicken in a harmonious culinary symphony.
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 4 stalks lemongrass, trimmed and finely chopped
* 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1 onion, thinly sliced
* 1 carrot, thinly sliced
* 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
* 1 teaspoon minced garlic
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, lemongrass, coconut milk, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Slice the bell peppers, onion, and carrot thinly. Grate the ginger and mince the garlic.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: Add the bell peppers, onion, carrot, ginger, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add the chicken and sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the remaining marinade. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Season to taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips:
* For a stronger lemongrass flavor, use more stalks or infuse the coconut milk with lemongrass by simmering it with a few stalks for 10-15 minutes.
* If you don't have unsweetened coconut milk, you can use regular coconut milk and omit the brown sugar.
* Serve with your favorite sides such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
* This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
Benefits of Fragrant Lemongrass Coconut Chicken Stir Fry:
* Packed with nutrients: This dish is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals from the chicken, vegetables, and coconut milk.
* Antioxidant-rich: Lemongrass and coconut are both rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage.
* Digestive aid: Lemongrass has traditionally been used to aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
* Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of lemongrass, coconut, and chicken creates a tantalizing flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds.