Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

There’s something magical about a weeknight dish that comes together in just half an hour, brimming with vibrant vegetables and savory flavors. That’s the beauty of Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry. This recipe promises a harmonious blend of juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a glossy, savory sauce—all sizzling together in one pan. Whether you’re a fan of classic takeout or just love the idea of tossing together a colorful stir fry at home, this is the meal you’ll want to revisit again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish lies in the simplicity and clarity of the ingredients—each playing an important role in flavor, texture, or color. Fresh veggies, tender chicken, and a well-balanced sauce bring everything together for a dinner that tastes anything but ordinary.

• Chicken breast or thighs: Choose your favorite, because both guarantee succulent pieces that soak up every bit of flavor.
• Soy sauce: Delivers the salty, umami kick that anchors the entire stir fry.
• Oyster sauce: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness for big takeout flavor.
• Cornstarch: Essential for velveting the chicken and thickening the final sauce.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps everything moving in the pan and adds subtle flavor.
• Onion: Sliced for gentle sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Garlic: Adds bold flavor and familiar warmth that no stir fry should be without.
• Bell peppers: For crunch, color, and a touch of sweetness—choose your favorite hues!
• Broccoli florets: Brings tender-crisp texture and rounds out the veggie medley.
• Mushrooms: Offer savoriness and soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Celery: Sliced thin for refreshing crunch.
• Cabbage or bean sprouts: Finish the dish with extra texture and a hint of freshness.
• Chicken broth or water: Forms the base of the stir fry sauce, keeping everything juicy.
• Sesame oil (optional): For a nutty, toasty finish that heightens aroma.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste and bring balance to every bite.

How to Make Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your thinly sliced chicken into a bowl, then add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, the oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Stir well so every strip is coated. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes while you prep the veggies—this simple step ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender, just like in the best Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry from your favorite takeout spot.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or trusty wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir fry for about 4 to 5 minutes, letting the edges get a little color while the inside cooks gently. Once lightly browned and nearly cooked through, scoop the chicken out onto a plate. You’ll finish it off with the veggies soon.

Step 3: Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Veggies

In the same pan, maybe with an extra dash of oil if the skillet looks dry, toss in the sliced onions and minced garlic. Let them sizzle for a minute until fragrant, then add your bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, and celery. Keep everything moving as you stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes—just enough time for the vegetables to soften slightly but still keep that irresistible crispness.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Finish the Stir Fry

Time to bring everything together! Return the chicken to the pan, add the cabbage or bean sprouts, and pour in the chicken broth along with the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce. Stir fry for another 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and coat every piece. The chicken finishes cooking, the veggies glisten, and the scent is pure joy.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

If you love a nutty finish, drizzle in a teaspoon of sesame oil right before serving. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Now your Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry looks glossy, colorful, and ready for the table!

How to Serve Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry

Garnishes

Sprinkle sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for a burst of freshness and subtle crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, a little chopped cilantro or a few sprouts add extra color and vibrance.

Side Dishes

Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry is wonderful ladled over fluffy steamed rice, but it’s equally at home with slippery lo mein or rice noodles. Even a side of fried rice or simple stir-fried greens makes the meal feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry in a large bowl family-style, or pile it high on a platter with jasmine rice mounded on the side. For a fun twist, scoop it into lettuce cups for a crunchy, hand-held dinner. Mini appetizer portions are also a vibrant addition to a party spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any remaining Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay delicious and fresh for up to three days, making quick lunches or speedy dinners a breeze.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze leftovers! Once the stir fry is cool, pack it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, squeezing out any extra air. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best texture after thawing, undercook the vegetables just slightly before freezing.

Reheating

For tastiest results, reheat Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, stirring often until just warmed through. The microwave works too, but do it in short bursts to keep the chicken tender and the veggies from getting too soft.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins in Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for pork, beef, shrimp, tofu, or even a mix—just adjust cooking times so each protein is perfectly cooked and juicy.

What vegetables work best?

Almost any quick-cooking veggie will shine here—think snap peas, carrots, baby corn, or water chestnuts. Follow your cravings and use what’s in the crisper drawer!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Easy fix: use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and seek out a gluten-free oyster sauce. That way, your Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry is safe for everyone at the table.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the chicken with firm tofu or extra veggies, use vegetarian oyster sauce, and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.

How do I get restaurant-style sauce?

Double the amount of broth and whisk in an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of water—your Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry will have that glossy, luscious, takeout-inspired finish!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s fast, colorful, and full of flavor, give this Chop Suey – Chicken Stir Fry a place in your weekly dinner rotation. Each bite has just the right combo of tenderness, crunch, and rich sauce—plus, it’s easy to adapt with whatever you have on hand. You’re going to love how satisfying and simple homemade stir fry can be!

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