Chicken-Almond Stir-Fry
A flavorful chicken stir-fry with crunchy almonds, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Suitable for Asian cuisine lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. sesame or vegetable oil ⓘ
- 4 skinned and boned chicken breast halves, cut into thin strips ⓘ
- 1 (2.25 oz.) pkg. sliced almonds ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) pkg. frozen broccoli, carrots and water chestnuts ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. cornstarch ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. ground ginger ⓘ
- 1/2 cup soy sauce ⓘ
- 1/3 cup pineapple juice ⓘ
Instructions
- Pour oil around the top of a preheated wok, coating sides, or in a large, nonstick skillet. Heat briefly at medium-high (375°F).
- Add chicken and almonds; cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add frozen vegetables; cover and cook for 4 minutes, stirring once.
- Combine cornstarch, soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and ground ginger; add to wok.
- Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
- Serve over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quick meal, use pre-cooked chicken or a mix of fresh vegetables for added crunch. If you prefer, substitute almonds with cashews or peanuts for a different flavor. Adjust the soy sauce for a saltier taste, or use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha. This dish is versatile and fits well with various Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken-Almond Stir-Fry over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Quickie Egg Drop Noodles or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave for a quick option or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or additional soy sauce to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Almond Stir-Fry contains roughly 313 calories, with 11g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2250mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas can add vibrant color and texture. Just adjust cooking time as fresh vegetables may cook faster than frozen. Stir-fry them briefly before adding the chicken for optimal results.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you're looking for a soy sauce alternative, try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free choice. Both will provide a similar umami flavor, although the taste may vary slightly.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply heat it up and add the sauce. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to cook it fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).