Chicken Cantonese
Chicken Cantonese offers tender chicken strips stir-fried with colorful vegetables and savory sauce, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suited for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. choice chicken pieces ⓘ
- 1 tsp. paprika ⓘ
- 1 tsp. garlic salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1 large onion, sliced ⓘ
- 1 1/2 green peppers, thin strips ⓘ
- 1 c. diagonally sliced celery ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. chicken broth, divided ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. cornstarch ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. soy sauce ⓘ
- 2 large tomatoes, cut in eighths ⓘ
- hot cooked rice ⓘ
Instructions
- Remove skin and bones from the chicken and cut into thin strips.
- Sprinkle the chicken with paprika, garlic salt, and black pepper.
- Saute the chicken in vegetable oil for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add sliced onion, green pepper strips, and sliced celery to the pan.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth, cover, and steam for 2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, blend the remaining broth with cornstarch and soy sauce.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Serve the stir-fried chicken and vegetables over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mix for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. If you want to add more veggies, consider including snap peas or carrots. To enhance the dish, serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions, similar to what you might find in Eggplant With Spice!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Cantonese over a bed of hot cooked rice for a satisfying meal. You can also pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad to balance the flavors. For a full experience, consider serving it alongside other Chinese recipes, creating a delicious spread for family or guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Stir until heated through. This method helps retain the dish's flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cantonese contains roughly 461 calories, with 10g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (106% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 557mg per serving (24% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before preparation. This helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents excess moisture from affecting the sauce's consistency. If you're short on time, you might even consider using pre-cooked chicken for a quick meal.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you're looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will provide a similar umami flavor, making them excellent choices if you have dietary restrictions.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to the Chicken Cantonese, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies during cooking. You can also serve it with a side of chili sauce for those who prefer an extra kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for the perfect balance.
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).