Oriental Stir-Fry Chicken
A quick, flavorful stir-fry featuring tender chicken and crisp vegetables in an Oriental-inspired sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cornstarch, salt, garlic, and sherry in a bowl; stir well.
- Add chicken cut into 3/4-inch pieces and mix well.
- Let sit for 1/2 to 1 hour.
- Stir again to ensure all pieces are separated.
- Add 1/4 cup of oil to a skillet and heat until hot.
- Add chicken and stir quickly for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add vegetables and sprinkle liberally with soy sauce.
- Continue stirring for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Vegetables should be medium crisp, not mushy.
- Serve with fluffy white rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding ginger or green onions to the stir-fry. If you don't have dry sherry, a splash of rice vinegar can work as a substitute. Ensure the chicken is cut evenly for consistent cooking. To enhance texture, marinate the chicken longer, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Explore other Chinese recipes for variations in sauces and vegetable combinations that suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stir-fry over fluffy white rice for a hearty meal. You can also pair it with a side of steamed dumplings or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. For a complete feast, consider offering it alongside Mary Ellen's Best Sweet And Sour Chicken, creating a delightful mix of flavors to satisfy everyone at the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and chicken. Adding a splash of water can help steam the dish and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oriental Stir-Fry Chicken contains roughly 143 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 539mg per serving (23% 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 stir-fry?
While fresh chicken is preferred for optimal texture, you can use thawed frozen chicken. Just ensure it's fully thawed and pat it dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture in the stir-fry. This will help achieve that perfect sear and flavor.
What vegetables can I add to the stir-fry?
You can customize this stir-fry with any vegetables you enjoy! Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots work well. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Adding a mix of colors not only enhances the dish visually but also provides a variety of nutrients.
How can I make this stir-fry spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, sriracha, or sliced fresh chili peppers while cooking. Adjust the amount to your preference, ensuring it complements the other flavors without overpowering them. This can turn your dish into a delicious Spicy Chicken With Broccoli variation!
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).