This Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and healthy dinner solution that delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The chicken is marinated in soy sauce and oyster sauce, giving it a savory depth, while the fresh veggies add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch. The combination of chicken, snow peas, bell peppers, and carrots makes it a balanced meal, perfect for weeknights when you’re pressed for time but still want something delicious.
Whether you serve it with steamed rice or enjoy it on its own, this stir fry is a versatile dish that’s easy to customize. You can add your favorite veggies or switch out the protein for shrimp or tofu. The addition of Shaoxing wine brings a subtle complexity, but it’s optional for those who prefer a simpler flavor profile. No matter how you make it, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation.
Full Recipe:
- 500g / 1 lb chicken thigh fillets, cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, sliced thinly
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, sliced
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a bowl, toss the chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir fry the chicken until browned and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining oil to the skillet, and stir fry the onion and garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the carrot, bell pepper, and snow peas, and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Stir in the bean sprouts, water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, and chicken broth. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the sesame oil and Shaoxing wine (if using), and stir everything together for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, with steamed rice if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Chicken Stir Fry (Chop Suey): A Deliciously Simple and Healthy Weeknight Meal
When it comes to quick, easy, and nutritious meals, Chicken Stir Fry or Chop Suey is a favorite in many households. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to fit anyone’s palate, and it’s perfect for those nights when you need to throw something together quickly without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce is what makes this recipe a go-to for weeknight dinners. With its vibrant mix of textures and flavors, it’s no wonder why stir fries are a cornerstone of many Asian cuisines.
What Is Chicken Stir Fry (Chop Suey)?
Chop Suey, which translates to “assorted pieces,” is a classic Chinese-American dish that became popular in the late 19th century. Traditionally, Chop Suey is made with a variety of vegetables and a protein (like chicken, beef, or shrimp), stir-fried quickly in a hot wok and then served with rice or noodles. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility—you can mix and match vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your refrigerator.
In the case of Chicken Stir Fry (Chop Suey), juicy pieces of chicken thigh are paired with colorful vegetables like carrots, snow peas, bell peppers, and bean sprouts. The dish is enhanced with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a splash of sesame oil, providing a rich umami flavor that coats every ingredient perfectly.
Why This Chicken Stir Fry is a Must-Try Recipe
- Fast and Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying, homemade meal in no time.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with a variety of vegetables, this stir fry is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. By using lean chicken thighs or chicken breast, you’re also incorporating a good source of protein without adding too much fat.
- Customizable: The recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to switch up the veggies based on your preferences. You can substitute chicken for other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu, making it a versatile option for different diets.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil gives the dish a deep, savory taste with just the right amount of umami. Adding Shaoxing wine or dry sherry gives it a subtle complexity, while garlic and onion infuse it with fragrant aromatics.
- One-Pan Meal: Everything is cooked in a single skillet or wok, which makes for easy cleanup. That’s a huge plus for those who want a delicious meal but don’t want to spend hours cleaning up afterward.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Stir Fry
Chicken Stir Fry is not just delicious; it’s also loaded with nutritional benefits, especially when prepared with an assortment of fresh vegetables and lean protein. Here are a few health benefits you can enjoy from this dish:
- Rich in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function. A 100g serving of chicken provides around 31g of protein with minimal fat, making it a healthy choice for maintaining muscle mass while keeping calorie intake in check.
- High in Fiber and Nutrients: The vegetables used in this stir fry—carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, and bean sprouts—are packed with dietary fiber, which helps regulate digestion, maintain a healthy gut, and lower cholesterol levels. These veggies are also rich in essential vitamins like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.
- Low in Calories: Despite being flavorful and satisfying, this Chicken Stir Fry is relatively low in calories. With just around 320 kcal per serving, it’s a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without feeling deprived.
- Healthy Fats: The use of sesame oil in this recipe adds a rich, nutty flavor while providing a source of healthy fats. Sesame oil contains both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which have been linked to improved heart health.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Stir Fry
Cooking a perfect stir fry is all about mastering a few simple techniques and making sure your ingredients are prepped properly before you start cooking. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Prep Your Ingredients Beforehand: Stir frying happens quickly, so it’s important to have all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking. This ensures that nothing gets overcooked or undercooked during the process.
- Use High Heat: A good stir fry should be cooked quickly at high heat. This allows the vegetables to retain their crispness while giving the chicken a nice sear without drying it out. Make sure your skillet or wok is properly heated before adding the oil and ingredients.
- Cook the Chicken in Batches: If you overcrowd the skillet, the chicken will steam rather than sear, resulting in a less flavorful dish. It’s best to cook the chicken in small batches to ensure it gets evenly browned.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: The key to a great stir fry is maintaining the crisp texture of the vegetables. Cook them just until they are tender-crisp, which usually takes just a few minutes. This keeps them from becoming soggy and preserves their vibrant color and flavor.
- Season to Taste: While the recipe includes soy sauce and oyster sauce for seasoning, don’t hesitate to adjust the flavors to suit your taste. You can add a bit more soy sauce for saltiness, a dash of sugar for sweetness, or a squeeze of lime for acidity.
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken Stir Fry (Chop Suey) is traditionally served with steamed white rice, but there are plenty of other options if you’re looking to change things up. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Brown Rice: For a healthier twist, serve your stir fry with brown rice. It’s higher in fiber and has a nuttier flavor compared to white rice.
- Noodles: You can also pair this stir fry with stir-fried noodles like lo mein or rice noodles for a heartier meal.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re trying to cut down on carbs, cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb alternative that pairs well with the rich flavors of the stir fry.
- Quinoa: For a protein-packed side dish, consider serving the stir fry with quinoa. Its light and fluffy texture works well with the savory sauce.
Variations of Chicken Stir Fry (Chop Suey)
- Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Both of these plant-based proteins absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully and add their own unique textures to the dish.
- Spicy Chicken Stir Fry: If you like a bit of heat in your food, you can add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce to the stir fry. Szechuan peppercorns or crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish with a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Version: To make this recipe gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce. Tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes for soy sauce.
Conclusion
Chicken Stir Fry (Chop Suey) is a timeless recipe that offers the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even guests, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Its versatility allows you to make it your own, whether you’re adding different vegetables, switching up the protein, or adjusting the seasonings to fit your taste. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a smart choice for any meal.
With the tips and variations mentioned above, you can turn this simple stir fry into a culinary masterpiece that’s as healthy as it is delicious. So, next time you’re in a pinch for dinner, give this Chicken Stir Fry a try and enjoy a delightful, homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout.