Chicken Chop Suey Stir Fry is a classic dish that combines tender chicken with a variety of fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. This recipe offers an optional tenderizing method for the chicken and uses a homemade sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Optional Tenderized Chicken (Note 1):
- 180g (6oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp baking soda / bi-carb (optional, see Note 1)
Sauce (or use Charlie, Note 2):
- 1 tbsp cornflour / cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce, or all-purpose soy (see Note 3)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (see Note 4)
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine OR mirin (see Note 5)
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Dash of white pepper (or black)
- 3/4 cup (185 ml) water
Stir Fry:
- 1 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil (or other cooking oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 onion, sliced (white, brown, yellow)
- 5 – 6 stalks of choy sum (or any preferred Asian leafy greens)
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of chopped mushrooms (shiitake for traditional flavor, though any variety works)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
Instructions
- Tenderize the Chicken (Optional):
- Place the thinly sliced chicken breast in a bowl and sprinkle with baking soda. Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. This step is optional but helps to make the chicken extra tender.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornflour, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Chinese cooking wine or mirin, sesame oil (if using), white pepper, and water. Stir until the cornflour is fully dissolved.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 tbsp of vegetable oil.
- Incorporate the chicken strips into the skillet, stir-frying until they are fully cooked.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Add the choy sum, carrots, and mushrooms to the skillet.
- Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet retain a satisfying crunch.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the bean sprouts and stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the Sauce:
- Drizzle the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
- Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly coated, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Chop Suey Stir Fry hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Conclusion
This Chicken Chop Suey Stir Fry is a delightful mix of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce. It’s an easy and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and enjoy a delicious homemade dish that rivals your favorite takeout.