Freezing Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: The Ultimate Guide
Looking to save time while ensuring an assortment of delicious and healthy meals available whenever you need them? Freezing teriyaki chicken stir-fry is a fantastic method to prepare in bulk and enjoy throughout the week. This guide will walk you through the process of making and freezing teriyaki chicken stir-fry, ensuring you never run out of a hearty, flavorful dish for dinner.
Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
The base of any stir-fry dish is typically a protein and a combination of vegetables. For a classic teriyaki chicken stir-fry, the ingredients you will require are:
Chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces) Broccoli florets Carrots, sliced bell peppers, sliced Sesame oil Soy sauce Teriyaki sauce Garlic, minced Ginger, sliced Sesame seeds (for garnishing)How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
Prepare your chicken and vegetables: Ensure the chicken breast is cut into bite-sized pieces and the broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers are cleaned and sliced into similar sizes.
In a medium bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and some water to make a marinade. Tightly cover the bowl and marinate the chicken for a couple of hours, or at least 30 minutes on the counter.
While the chicken is marinating, heat sesame oil in a large wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces to the wok or skillet and stir-fry for about 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Add the marinated chicken back to the wok with the oil and quickly mix with the sliced vegetables. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still have some crunch.
Once the vegetables are done, pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to coat the chicken and vegetables.
Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
FreezingTeriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
After preparing your teriyaki chicken stir-fry, you have the option to freeze it for later use. Freezing the dish ensures that you maintain the freshness and flavor, even when stored for a few weeks.
Steps for Freezing Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
Allow the stir-fry to cool to room temperature before proceeding to store it.
Using a large freezer-safe container or portioning into smaller containers, pour the stir-fry into the container(s).
Optionally, you can place a layer of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly on the surface of the stir-fry to prevent freezer burn. Ensure the containers are tightly sealed.
Label the container with the contents and the date. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or on the stove and reheat until it reaches your desired temperature.
Conclusion
Freezing teriyaki chicken stir-fry can save you time and ensure a reliable source of healthy, delicious meals. Whether you're looking to save leftovers for another day or preparing meals in bulk, this guide will help you make the most out of your cooking efforts, giving you the convenience of enjoying your favorite dishes at your convenience.
By following these steps, you can easily whip up and freeze a hearty batch of teriyaki chicken stir-fry that will come in handy whenever you need it. Whether you're a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, having a stash of pre-made dishes can be a real lifesaver in the kitchen!