Chinese Walnut Chicken(Stir-Fry)
Chinese Walnut Chicken features tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and savory ham in a flavorful stir-fry, perfect for those who enjoy rich, nutty, and savory dishes with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1 1/2-inch squares.
- Mix cornstarch, pepper, sugar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons oil.
- Add chicken to the mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Saute cashews until golden in 1 tablespoon oil. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt.
- Heat remaining oil in the pan.
- Add chicken mixture; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add diced ham.
- Stir in remaining soy sauce and hot chicken broth, scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Cook for 1 minute longer.
- Serve over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using roasted cashews instead of frying them. You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version. If you want more heat, add a dash of chili oil or some sliced jalapeños. Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Browse more Chinese recipes for additional inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with hot steamed rice or fried rice, such as Hot And Spicy Fried Rice. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with Chicken Egg Drop Soup as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chinese Walnut Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Walnut Chicken(Stir-Fry) contains roughly 672 calories, with 15g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure they are fully thawed before cutting them into pieces. For best results, plan ahead to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This will help maintain the chicken's moisture and texture during cooking.
What can I substitute for cashews if I have a nut allergy?
If you have a nut allergy, you can replace cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. For a similar crunch, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or crispy rice cereal. These alternatives will still provide a satisfying texture without the risk of allergens.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce, such as tamari. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like broth and cooking oil, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of this dish without gluten concerns.
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).