| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 345 | 15g | 3g | 29g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 27g | 1.3g |
I first encountered the Kaffir Lime Chicken Stir-fry during my travels in Southeast Asia – a region rich in culture and brimming with culinary masterpieces. Just one mouthful of this refreshingly tangy dish transported me back to my native Colorado, where the great outdoors inspired my love for unique flavors and robust foods. And while this dish is a far cry from the game meats and trout dishes I usually swear by, its blend of taste, health benefits, and creative flair resonated with me on a whole new level – making it a steadfast favorite in my kitchen.
The Aromatic Dance of Flavors
The Kaffir Lime Chicken Stir-fry stands out for its vibrant fusion of flavors. The kaffir lime leaves lend an aromatic citrus note that dances flawlessly with the savory chicken, while the ginger and garlic add depth to the dish. And did I mention the crunch? The medley of vegetables – bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, and onions – not only add a dash of color but also contribute to the wonderfully varying texture in every bite.
Healthy and Nutritious
This stir-fry isn’t just about taste – it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in high-quality protein from the chicken, it’s a dish that supports muscle growth and recovery. It’s brimming with essential vitamins and minerals from the veggies, promoting overall wellness. And let’s not forget the metabolism-boosting properties of ginger and the heart-healthy benefits of garlic. It’s truly a dish that showcases how delicious and healthy can go hand-in-hand.
Pair the Kaffir Lime Chicken Stir-fry with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc to complement its tangy flavors or opt for a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice for a comforting, homely meal. Fans of Thai cooking might note its resemblance to the classic Pad Krapow Gai (Thai Basil Chicken), but with a distinct citrusy twist that sets it apart.
So from my kitchen to yours, enjoy the symphony of flavours that is the Kaffir Lime Chicken Stir-fry – a dish that is healthful, full of vibrant flavor, and a testament to the magic that happens when traditional ingredients meet culinary creativity.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 3 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 cup snow peas
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons of fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups of cooked rice, for serving
Method
Step One
Start by preparing the chicken. Cut the 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken breasts into bite-size pieces and set aside.
Step Two
Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped kaffir lime leaves and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Three
Add the sliced bell peppers, thinly sliced carrots, snow peas, and sliced onion to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-fry for another minute until well-combined and aromatic.
Step Four
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the chicken pieces to the other side. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink, typically about 5-7 minutes.
Step Five
Reduce the heat to medium, and stir everything in the pan together. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and salt to taste. Stir well to ensure everything is well coated with the sauces.
Step Six
Let everything simmer together for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
Step Seven
Serve the stir-fry hot over 2 cups of cooked rice. Enjoy!
