Budget-Friendly Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This easy Budget-Friendly Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a healthy, satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and affordable. At just $1.93 per serving, it’s perfect for a balanced and delicious family dinner!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin - $4.00

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced - $0.80

• 1 zucchini, sliced - $0.70

• 1 cup broccoli florets - $1.00

• 2 carrots, sliced - $0.50

• 2 cloves garlic, minced - $0.20

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium) - $0.30

• 1 tbsp olive oil - $0.10

• 1 tbsp cornstarch - $0.10

• 1/2 cup water - free

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Cooked rice for serving (optional)

Total Cost: ~$7.70 (serves 4, $1.93 per serving)

Instructions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and carrots, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, and water to make a sauce. Pour the sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well-coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sodium: 550mg

• Serving Size: 1 portion (serves 4)

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick and easy stir-fry perfect for weeknights

• Loaded with fresh veggies and lean protein

• One-pan meal with easy cleanup

• Affordable and family-friendly

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Slice the chicken and vegetables evenly for uniform cooking

• Add the sauce at the end to avoid over-thickening

• Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and burning

Substitutions

• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein

• Use other veggies like snap peas, mushrooms, or spinach

• Substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a heartier meal

• Pair with a simple green salad or spring rolls for an Asian-inspired dinner

• Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor