Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Balancing cost, nutrition, and taste is essential when feeding a family of four. A classic chicken and vegetable stir-fry with rice is a perfect example of an affordable, healthy, and delicious meal. This quick and easy recipe is packed with protein and veggies, making it a go-to dinner option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: $0.20
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips: $3.50
• Salt and pepper to taste: $0.10
• 1 medium onion, sliced: $0.50
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: $0.10
• 1 bell pepper, sliced: $0.75
• 2 carrots, julienned: $0.50
• 1 cup broccoli florets: $1.00
• 1 cup snap peas: $1.00
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: $0.30
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce: $0.50
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: $0.10

For Rice:

• 2 cups white rice: $1.00
• 4 cups water: free

Total Estimated Cost: $9.55

Instructions

For Rice:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
3. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

For Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the soy sauce and hoisin sauce, stirring to combine.
6. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is glossy and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken and vegetable stir-fry over a bed of fluffy white rice. This meal is not only colorful and flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a balanced and wholesome dinner option.

This chicken and vegetable stir-fry with rice showcases how you can create a delicious, nutritious meal for your family without spending a lot of money. With a variety of vibrant vegetables and lean protein, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of this budget-friendly dinner!