Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Recipe

This Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir Fry recipe is a delicious mix of savory flavors. It's a quick and easy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner, full of protein and greens. The recipe uses a simple homemade teriyaki sauce that is both sweet and tangy, providing the stir-fry with a unique Asian flair.

Photos of Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Recipe

For this recipe, you might have to look for Mirin in the supermarket if it's not a regular item in your pantry. It's a sweet Japanese rice wine that lends a mild acidity to the dish, enhancing its flavor. Also, fresh asparagus would give the best results, try to find greener and healthier ones for a tender and crisp texture.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir Fry

Soy sauce: It's a staple in Asian cuisine, providing a rich, salty flavor.

Mirin: A sweet Japanese rice wine, used in sauces and marinades.

Honey: It adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the saltiness.

Fresh ginger: Provides a spicy, aromatic note to the sauce.

Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce.

Chicken breast: A lean source of protein.

Kosher salt: Used for seasoning the chicken.

Canola oil: Used to saute the ingredients.

Asparagus: A nutritious green vegetable that adds crunch.

Garlic cloves: Gives a strong, pungent flavor.

One reader, Holden Bass says:

This teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the asparagus adds a delightful crunch. The sauce is a winner - sweet, tangy, and savory. It's a quick and healthy meal that's now a regular in my dinner rotation. Highly recommend!

Holden Bass

Essential Techniques for Making Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry

How to whisk the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, honey, ginger, and cornstarch, then whisk until well combined. Set aside.

How to cook asparagus: Heat a large non-stick wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of oil, then add the asparagus. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, until tender-crisp. Remove from the wok and set aside.

How to cook the chicken: Increase the heat to high, then add 1 teaspoon of oil and half of the chicken. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside, then repeat with the remaining oil and chicken.

How to thicken the sauce: Place everything back into the wok, pour the sauce over, and cook for 30 to 60 seconds while stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.

How To Make Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry

Try out our delicious asparagus stir-fry recipe made with chicken breasts cooked in soy sauce, mirin, garlic, and ginger, together with crisp asparagus!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspsoy sauce,or gluten-free soy sauce
2tbspmirin
½tbsphoney
½tbspfresh ginger,grated
1tspcornstarch
1½lbschicken breast,skinless, cut into ½-inch cubes
kosher salt,to taste
1tbspcanola,or grapeseed oil, divided
12ozasparagus,ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
4clovesgarlic,chopped

Instructions

Whisk the soy sauce, mirin, honey, ginger, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Set aside.
Lightly season the chicken with salt.
Heat a large non-stick wok over medium-high heat. When hot, add 1 teaspoon of the oil, add the asparagus, and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, until tender-crisp.
Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until golden. Set aside on a dish.
Increase the heat to high, then add 1 teaspoon of oil and half of the chicken.
Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
Remove and set aside and repeat with the remaining oil and chicken.
Place everything back into the wok, pour the sauce over, and cook for 30 to 60 seconds while stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Nutrition

Calories: 372.22kcal
Fat: 19.43g
Saturated Fat: 4.83g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.72g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.40g
Carbohydrates: 8.15g
Fiber: 1.97g
Sugar: 3.85g
Protein: 38.56g
Cholesterol: 108.86mg
Sodium: 768.94mg
Calcium: 49.17mg
Potassium: 616.56mg
Iron: 3.33mg
Vitamin A: 73.14µg
Vitamin C: 5.75mg

Stir-Frying Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus

When stir-frying, it's important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This is because the process is fast-paced and there's not much time to chop or measure once the heat is on. For this teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry recipe, make sure to have your chicken cut and seasoned, your asparagus trimmed and your sauce mixed before you heat up your wok. This will ensure a smooth cooking process and a perfectly cooked dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Stir-Fry Recipes

Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pan cooking: Use a large skillet or wok to cook the chicken and asparagus together, minimizing clean-up and saving time.

Substitute Ingredients For Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Recipe

soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, with a similar flavor profile and richness.
mirin - Substitute with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar: Rice vinegar adds a similar sweet and tangy flavor to dishes when combined with a small amount of sugar.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and depth of flavor to dishes, and can be used as a 1:1 replacement for honey.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar warm and spicy flavor to dishes.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch, providing a similar texture and consistency to sauces and stir-fries.
chicken breast - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a source of protein and absorbing the flavors of the dish.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil or peanut oil: Vegetable oil or peanut oil can be used as alternatives for cooking the stir-fry, providing a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
asparagus - Substitute with green beans or broccoli: Green beans or broccoli can be used as substitutes for asparagus, adding a similar crunch and texture to the stir-fry dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar savory and aromatic flavor to dishes.

Best Way to Present This Stir-Fry Recipe

Elevate the plating: Arrange the teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate colorful garnishes such as microgreens or edible flowers to add a pop of color and visual interest to the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish is presented with meticulous attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a visually striking and balanced presentation.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element such as toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried shallots to provide contrast and depth to the dish.
Consider the plate shape: Select a plate that complements the dish, enhancing its visual appeal and overall presentation.
Emphasize the sauce: Drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the dish in an artful manner, adding a glossy sheen and enhancing the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stir-Fry Recipes

Whisk: A utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, often with a handle and loops of wire.
Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used in stir-frying, steaming, pan-frying, and more.
Non-stick wok: A wok with a non-stick coating to prevent food from sticking and make cleaning easier.
Small bowl: A container used for mixing and holding small amounts of ingredients.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items, such as turning food while cooking.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Canola oil: A type of cooking oil commonly used in stir-frying and sautéing.
Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients while cooking.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Large dish: A dish used for holding and serving cooked food.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces and heating liquids.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry

Let the teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry cool down to room temperature before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to soggy or spoiled food.
For short-term storage, place the cooled stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to use a shallow container to allow the food to cool quickly and evenly.
When ready to reheat, transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry for up to 2-3 months. Divide the cooled dish into individual serving-sized portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
To thaw frozen stir-fry, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Once thawed, reheat the stir-fry in the microwave or skillet as mentioned above.
If you plan on freezing the dish, it's best to undercook the asparagus slightly during the initial cooking process. This will help maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
Consider storing the chicken and asparagus separately from the sauce if you plan on freezing the dish. This allows you to adjust the consistency of the sauce when reheating, as it may thicken after being frozen and thawed.

How To Reheat Leftover Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry

To reheat leftover teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the stir-fry is heated through. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Another option is to reheat the stir-fry in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or water to the pan to prevent sticking and help steam the ingredients. Stir the mixture frequently until it is heated through, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This method allows you to maintain the texture of the vegetables and keep the chicken tender.
For a crispy texture, reheat the leftover stir-fry in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the leftovers in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken and asparagus are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
If you have access to a steamer, you can also reheat the teriyaki chicken and asparagus using this method. Place the leftovers in a heat-safe dish and position it in the steamer basket. Steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the stir-fry is heated through. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish while minimizing the risk of overcooking or drying out the ingredients.

Interesting Facts About Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus

Teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry is a popular dish in Japanese cuisine. It is a healthy and flavorful meal that combines the savory taste of teriyaki sauce with the freshness of asparagus. This dish is a great source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a delicious and nutritious option for a quick and easy dinner.

Is Making Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry at Home Cost-Effective?

This teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breast and asparagus, are relatively affordable and versatile. The use of soy sauce and mirin adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. With an estimated cost of around $20, this dish can easily feed a family of four. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10 for its balance of affordability and delicious flavors.

Is This Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Healthy?

The teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and flavor. Here are some positive aspects of the recipe:

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body
Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable, providing fiber, vitamins (A, C, E, and K), and minerals (folate and potassium)
The use of fresh ginger and garlic adds flavor and provides some health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
The recipe uses a small amount of honey for sweetness, which is a healthier alternative to refined sugar

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe uses soy sauce, which is high in sodium. Opting for a low-sodium soy sauce or using less of it can help reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
Canola oil is used for cooking, which is a refined oil. Replacing it with a healthier oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, can provide more beneficial fats

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the amount of asparagus or add other nutrient-dense vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, to boost the fiber and vitamin content
Use a whole grain alternative to serve alongside the stir-fry, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
Incorporate additional herbs and spices, like red pepper flakes or cilantro, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt
Reduce the amount of cornstarch used in the sauce or replace it with a healthier thickener, such as arrowroot powder, to minimize the use of refined ingredients

Editor's Thoughts on This Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Recipe

This teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The use of mirin and honey in the teriyaki sauce adds depth and balance, while the fresh ginger and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic richness. The cooking method ensures the chicken is tender and juicy, and the asparagus retains its crisp texture. The final stir-fry brings all the elements together, creating a harmonious dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. It's a wonderful recipe that showcases the beauty of Asian-inspired stir-fries.

Enhance Your Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Miso-Glazed Eggplant: Roast the eggplant with a miso glaze for a savory and umami-rich side dish.

Grilled Pineapple with Chili Lime Glaze: Grill pineapple slices and drizzle with a spicy and tangy chili lime glaze for a refreshing and zesty side dish.

Coconut-Curry Cauliflower Rice: Sauté cauliflower rice with a fragrant coconut curry sauce for a flavorful and low-carb side dish.

Similar Stir-Fry Recipes to Try

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon: Grilled salmon marinated in a zesty lemon herb sauce, perfect for a light and flavorful dinner.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A refreshing and colorful salsa made with ripe mangoes, creamy avocados, and a hint of spice, perfect for topping grilled chicken or fish.

Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy and comforting soup made with roasted butternut squash, onions, and a touch of nutmeg, perfect for a cozy night in.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, a delicious and healthy side dish for any meal.

Peach Cobbler: A classic Southern dessert made with juicy peaches, a buttery biscuit topping, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, perfect for a sweet treat after dinner.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of tangy sweetness.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent and velvety smooth chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola in a glass to create a beautiful and delicious berry parfait. This light and refreshing dessert is a great way to end a meal on a sweet note.

Why trust this Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The soy sauce, mirin, and honey create a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, while the fresh ginger adds a delightful kick. The use of cornstarch ensures a perfect consistency for the sauce. Additionally, the chicken breast is cooked to perfection, and the asparagus and garlic provide a nutritious and flavorful addition. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, as it promises a delightful teriyaki chicken and asparagus stir-fry experience.

Have you tried this Teriyaki Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry Recipe? Share your experience and any tips in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for mirin in this recipe?

You can substitute mirin with a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar. For this recipe, you can use 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar mixed with 1/2 tablespoon of sugar as a replacement for 2 tablespoons of mirin.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to chicken breast.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, replacing the chicken with your preferred vegetarian protein.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This can save time when you're ready to cook the stir-fry.

What other vegetables can I use in this stir-fry?

You can customize this stir-fry with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables to create your own unique version of this dish.