Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry
Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a popular dish in Japanese cuisine that combines marinated chicken and fresh asparagus with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
How to Cook Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry
Looking to impress with a quick, delicious, and healthy meal? Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a go-to dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. This Japanese-inspired dish combines tender strips of chicken, crisp asparagus, and a sweet-savory homemade teriyaki sauce to create a perfect harmony of flavor and texture. Whether you’re a home cook or a lover of asparagus, this recipe will not disappoint.
Packed with fresh ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing the joy of a home-cooked meal. Keep reading to learn about its benefits, preparation tips, and the step-by-step process to create your new favorite stir-fry!
Why Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a Favorite
Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry has gained widespread popularity among home cooks for its simplicity, versatility, and vibrant flavors. Originating from Japanese cuisine, teriyaki dishes blend sweet and salty flavors, making them irresistible to the palate. Coupled with the fresh crunch of asparagus, this dish is perfect for anyone who appreciates a satisfying and wholesome meal.
The Health Benefits of Asparagus
Before we get into the cooking process, let’s talk about one of the star ingredients—asparagus. Not only does it add vibrancy and crunch to the dish, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition. Here’s why you’ll love adding asparagus to your meals:
- Rich in Nutrients: Packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, and loaded with antioxidants, asparagus supports overall health and well-being.
- Low in Calories, High in Fiber: Perfect for those watching their calorie intake while ensuring a healthy digestive system.
- Boosts Heart Health: Thanks to its high levels of potassium and folate, asparagus helps promote a healthy heart.
- Supports Bone Health: Vitamin K in asparagus strengthens bones and prevents osteoporosis.
Now that you know the benefits, let’s get prepping!
Prepping the Ingredients
Preparation is key to an effortless stir-fry. Here’s how to get started:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 350 grams of chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 500 grams of asparagus
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 green onions (chopped)
Ingredient Prep Tips:
- Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into evenly-sized strips. Season with salt, black pepper, and cornstarch to ensure tender, juicy bites.
- Asparagus: Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into approximately 2-inch pieces. This makes them easier to cook and eat.
- Sauce: Pre-make your teriyaki sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, honey, and brown sugar. This helps streamline the cooking process.
Making the Perfect Teriyaki Sauce
Though store-bought teriyaki sauce is an option, there’s nothing like a homemade version that’s fresher and free of additives. Here’s how you can create the perfect blend of sweet and savory:
- Combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar in a bowl.
- Whisk until all ingredients have dissolved, then set aside.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of cornstarch to the sauce to achieve a thicker consistency.
Cooking the Stir-Fry
Here’s where the magic comes together! Follow these steps to nail the perfect Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry:
- Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the wok and set aside.
- Stir in the Garlic and Asparagus:
Toss the minced garlic and asparagus into the wok. Stir and cover for about 5 minutes, allowing the asparagus to become tender while maintaining its crunch.
- Combine Everything:
Add the chicken back into the wok along with the pre-prepared teriyaki sauce. Stir everything together to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Finish with Green Onions:
Sprinkle chopped green onions over the dish and mix well for a final layer of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice for a classic pairing.
- Fresh Noodles for a hearty twist.
- Cauliflower Rice for a low-carb option.
To elevate your presentation, garnish with sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does teriyaki sauce go on before or after cooking?
Add teriyaki sauce towards the end of cooking to coat the ingredients while preserving the sauce’s flavor.
- Do you cook chicken or vegetables first in a stir-fry?
Cook the chicken first and set it aside. Vegetables come next, allowing for varied textures.
- How do you keep chicken juicy in stir-fry?
Coat chicken with cornstarch before cooking to lock in moisture.
- Can you use teriyaki sauce straight from the bottle?
Yes, although making it fresh offers better flavor and control over sweetness.
- What is the secret to good stir-fry?
High heat, fast cooking, and pre-cut uniform ingredients are key.
- Can I cook raw chicken and vegetables in the same pan?
Absolutely, but ensure the chicken is fully cooked before combining with vegetables.
More Stir-Fry Recipes You’ll Love
Expand your stir-fry game with these recipes:
Bring Flavor to Your Table
Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a dish that doesn’t just satisfy hunger—it’s an opportunity to explore new flavors and cooking techniques. With its vibrant mix of fresh ingredients and a homemade touch, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Try it today and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to check our other stir-fry recipes to keep your kitchen creative and exciting.
Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry
Ingredients
- 350 grams chicken breast cut into strips
- 500 grams asparagus
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2 stalks green onion chopped
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips and place them in a large bowl. Season with salt, black pepper, and cornstarch, then mix well to coat evenly.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Toss in the garlic and asparagus. Stir, cover, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the asparagus to become tender yet crisp.
- While the chicken and asparagus cook, prepare the sauce. Whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Add the green onions to the wok, followed by the prepared sauce. Stir to coat the chicken and asparagus evenly. Continue cooking for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve your Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
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