Quick Recipe for Chinese-Style Stir-Fried Chicken with Vegetables

What is Chinese-Style Stir-Fried Chicken with Vegetables?

Chinese-style stir-fried chicken with vegetables is a popular dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with fresh, crisp vegetables, all cooked together in a savory, flavorful sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and offers a healthy, balanced meal. It’s a staple in many Chinese households and a favorite for anyone who loves easy and delicious meals.

Often served with steamed rice, it provides a perfect blend of protein and vegetables, making it a satisfying yet light option for dinner.

Ingredients for Chinese Stir-Fried Chicken with Vegetables

To make this quick and tasty dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken sauce)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Chinese-Style Stir-Fried Chicken with Vegetables

Here’s how to prepare this delicious and nutritious meal:

1. Prep the Chicken: Thinly slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the red bell pepper and carrot into thin strips. Break the broccoli into small florets. Mince the garlic.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, then add the chicken strips. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add the carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
5. Combine and Make the Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), cornstarch, and chicken broth or water. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve: Serve hot with steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds, if desired. Enjoy your homemade Chinese-style stir-fried chicken!

Tips for Perfect Chinese Stir-Fried Chicken

To ensure your stir-fry turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

• High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to quickly cook the ingredients while retaining their texture. Make sure your wok or pan is preheated before adding the ingredients.
• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you're making a large batch, cook the chicken and vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps everything cook evenly and prevents steaming the ingredients.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like snow peas, mushrooms, or baby corn for added variety.

Variations and Substitutions

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily modify it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this stir-fry.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and make sure all other sauces are also gluten-free.
• Spicy Version: Add some red chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the stir-fry for a spicy kick.

Why Choose This Recipe?

This Chinese-style stir-fried chicken with vegetables is not only quick and easy but also offers a healthy and satisfying meal. It’s packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful sauces that make it a crowd-pleaser for both adults and children.

If you're looking to make a fast, delicious dinner that will impress your family or guests, this recipe is perfect for you. Plus, it's versatile, and you can adapt it based on your pantry staples or personal preferences!

For more delicious Chinese recipes and ingredients, be sure to check out Chinese Food for all the ingredients you'll need!