Chicken Chop Suey: A Classic and Flavorful Stir-Fry

Chicken Chop Suey is a classic Chinese-American stir-fry dish that combines tender chicken with a variety of fresh vegetables in a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and healthy meal, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Follow this guide to create a delicious Chicken Chop Suey that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1 cup cabbage, shredded
  • 1 cup snow peas
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions

  • 1 can water chestnuts, sliced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 can bamboo shoots, sliced

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

  • Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breast, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Prepare the Vegetables

  • Slice and Chop: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Cut the onion, celery, carrots, and bell pepper into slices. If using, slice the water chestnuts, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.

Stir-Fry the Chicken

  • Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.
  • Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  • Sauté Garlic and Onion: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the onion starts to soften.
  • Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the sliced celery, carrots, bell pepper, bean sprouts, cabbage, and snow peas to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet slightly crisp.
  • Optional Vegetables: If using, add the sliced water chestnuts, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

Combine and Season

  • Add Chicken and Broth: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the chicken broth and oyster sauce, stirring thoroughly to blend all the ingredients together.
  • Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened and the flavors are well combined.

Adjust Seasoning:

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve

  • Plate the Dish: Transfer the Chicken Chop Suey to a serving platter.
  • Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions.
  • Serve Hot: Serve the Chicken Chop Suey hot, with steamed rice or noodles on the side.

Conclusion

This Chicken Chop Suey is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce creates a flavorful and satisfying stir-fry. Easy to prepare and versatile, this dish can be customized with your favorite vegetables or additional ingredients. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this classic Chicken Chop Suey, and happy cooking!