Stir-Fry Chinese Walnut Chicken
A savory Chinese stir-fry featuring tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and smoky ham, all coated in a flavorful soy-based sauce. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into uniform squares about 1 1/2 inches thick.
- Mix cornstarch, sugar, salt, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons oil.
- Add chicken and stir to coat evenly.
- Saute walnuts in 1 tablespoon oil until golden.
- Sprinkle walnuts with salt. Heat remaining oil.
- Add chicken mixture and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add ham and walnuts and stir-fry about 5 minutes.
- Stir in remaining soy sauce and broth, scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan; cook for one minute longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy texture, ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. You can substitute walnuts with cashews or peanuts if preferred. If you like a bit of spice, add some chili flakes when stir-frying. For a healthier twist, replace soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce, and serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This recipe aligns well with other easy, healthy stir-fry options.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Stir-Fry Chinese Walnut Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa for a fulfilling meal. A side of steamed broccoli or snap peas enhances the dish’s color and nutrition. For a complete experience, pair it with a light cucumber salad or browse more Chinese recipes for variety. This dish can also complement a simple egg drop soup.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to retain texture, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Reheat until warmed through to enjoy the flavors again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stir-Fry Chinese Walnut Chicken contains roughly 393 calories, with 9g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1325mg per serving (58% 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 it's essential to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You may want to marinate it a bit longer to infuse flavor. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for smoked ham?
If you don't have smoked ham, diced turkey or chicken can work as an excellent substitute, providing a similar texture without compromising flavor. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian option, adding it towards the end of cooking to ensure it stays firm.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic and ginger to the oil before stir-frying the chicken. A splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil at the end can also elevate the taste. Additionally, using fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions as a garnish adds freshness and aroma.
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).