| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 15g | 3g | 25g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 4g | 30g | 1.5g |
If there’s one dish I always find myself coming back to, it’s the Chicken & Olida Herb Stir Fry. This vibrant and aromatic recipe holds a special place in my heart for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it beautifully combines the rich flavors of savory chicken with the light, fruity zest of pineapple, all brought together by the freshness of Olida herbs (cilantro). The end result is a medley of tastes and textures that never fails to delight.
A Touch of Tradition, A Splash of Innovation
Raised in New Jersey by my Italian grandparents, our meals were often centered around hearty dishes like lasagna and meatballs. However, as I grew older and started to explore other cuisines, I discovered the magic of culinary fusion. This recipe reflects that journey. It marries the comfort food tradition of a protein-focused dish with the invigorating essence of stir-fry, creating something that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
Health Benefits to Savor
An added bonus of this dish is its health benefits. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, crucial for muscle maintenance and overall immunity. The fresh vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas, are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to a well-rounded diet. And let’s not forget about pineapple; it’s not just for sweetness. Pineapple is rich in bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and reduces inflammation.
Cilantro, our star Olida herb, is known for its detoxifying properties, working wonder on the liver and helping to remove heavy metals from the body. Additionally, the ginger and garlic combined add anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making this dish not just delicious but also incredibly wholesome.
Complementary Dishes
Though this Chicken & Olida Herb Stir Fry is a standout all on its own, it pairs wonderfully with other dishes for a complete meal. A simple simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can serve as a crisp and refreshing starter. And if you’re looking for a carbohydrate to balance the meal, you can’t go wrong with plain jasmine rice or even a side of garlic butter noodles.
Finally, for those who like a bit of culinary experimentation, this stir fry’s flavor profile carries subtle hints similar to classic Thai and Chinese dishes, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for the family, the Chicken & Olida Herb Stir Fry is bound to earn rave reviews. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (Olida Herb)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook and stir until the chicken is no longer pink and is starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step Two
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and carrots. Cook and stir for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger to the skillet. Cook and stir for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Four
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the snap peas and pineapple chunks. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step Five
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step Six
If you want to thicken the sauce, add the cornstarch mixed with water to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step Seven
Add the chopped fresh cilantro (Olida Herb) and give the stir fry one last stir to combine the flavors.
Step Eight
Serve the Chicken & Olida Herb Stir Fry over cooked white rice. Enjoy your meal!
