I love this recipe because it takes the classic stir-fry technique and gives it an Italian twist. The vinegar and honey create a sweet-and-sour glaze for the chicken that everyone will enjoy. In fact, when I was testing this recipe in my kitchen at home, two of my grandchildren Olivia and Ethan were visiting, and this was their favorite dish of the day—they both asked for the recipe so they could re-create it at home.

Serves 4

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INGREDIENTS

  • ½ cup chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • Kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
  • 2 heads broccoli, cut into small florets, stems trimmed and peeled and cut into matchsticks
  • 8 white or cremini mushrooms, trimmed and quartered
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into thick strips
  • 1 bunch scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Peperoncino flakes
  • Cooked rice, for serving, if desired

TO PREPARE

STEP ONE. In a small bowl, stir together the chicken stock, balsamic vinegar, honey, and cornstarch. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, and set aside.

STEP TWO. Heat a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add half of the chicken strips, season with salt, and cook, tossing occasionally, until cooked through and browned all over, about 2 minutes. Remove to a plate, and repeat with the remaining chicken.

STEP THREE. When all of the chicken is out of the pan, wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over high heat.

STEP FOUR. Add the broccoli, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Toss to coat in the oil. Cook and toss until the vegetables begin to wilt, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the scallions, and a big pinch of peperoncino. Cover, and cook until the vegetables are crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Uncover, and add the reserved sauce mixture and chicken strips.

STEP FIVE. Cook and toss until the sauce boils and is thickened and the chicken is heated through, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve immediately, ideally with some boiled rice.