Barley And Sesame Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients for Barley And Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

• Dry Sherry
• Japanese Soy Sauce
• Seasoned Rice Vinegar
• Dijon Mustard
• Fresh Ginger
• Garlic Cloves
• Toasted Sesame Oil
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
• Ground Star Anise
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
• 1 large head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil
• 1/2 cup water chestnuts, sliced
• 1 cup cooked barley

How to Make Barley And Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

1. **Make the sauce:** In a bowl, whisk together the sherry, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, molasses, and red pepper flakes.
2. **Prepare the chicken:** Slice the chicken into thin strips and place in a small bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of the sauce and toss to coat. Set aside.
3. **Prep the broccoli:** Cut the broccoli florets from the stalks (reserve stalks for another use). Cut the florets into 1 1/2-inch pieces.
4. **Stir-fry:** Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the peanut oil and swirl to coat.
5. **Cook broccoli:** Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. **Add chicken and barley:** Stir in the marinated chicken, water chestnuts, cooked barley, and the remaining sauce. Add 2 tablespoons of water.
7. **Finish cooking:** Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through (3-4 minutes).
8. **Garnish and serve:** Stir in the sesame seeds and sliced scallions. Add more soy sauce to taste, if needed. Serve immediately.
9. **Vegetarian Option:** Substitute 1 pound of Asian-style baked tofu, cut into cubes, for the chicken. Cook the tofu for only 1 minute before adding the sesame seeds.