Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese

Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese Recipe - Authentic Chinese Dish

Region / culture: China | Servings: 4

Introduction

Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese is a classic Chinese dish that is both flavorful and easy to make. This dish features tender strips of chicken, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce that is perfect for serving over a bed of hot rice.

History

Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese is a popular dish that originated in the Canton region of China. This dish is known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) chicken, boned and skinned, cut into strips
1 tsp paprika
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1.5 large green bell peppers, cut into thin strips
1 large onion, sliced
1 cup diagonally sliced celery
1.25 cup chicken broth, divided
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 large fresh tomatoes, cut into eighths
3 cup hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Season the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, and ground pepper.
In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry the chicken in oil for 3 minutes or until tender.
Add the green peppers, onion, celery, and 0.5 cup of broth. Cover and steam for 1.5 minutes.
Blend the remaining 0.75 cup of broth with cornstarch and soy sauce.
Stir the mixture into the chicken and vegetables.
Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring, for about 1 minute or until the sauce is slightly thickened.
Serve the dish over hot rice.

Variations

Add in your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms.
For a spicy kick, add in some red pepper flakes or chili sauce.
Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the chicken into thin strips to ensure quick and even cooking.

- Be sure to stir-fry the chicken over high heat to achieve that classic wok flavor.

- Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese over a bed of hot rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly over high heat in a wok or skillet. This method helps to retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients while creating a delicious and aromatic dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu.

- Feel free to use any combination of vegetables that you prefer in this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and chop the vegetables in advance to save time when preparing this dish. Store the ingredients separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve it in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese with a side of steamed white rice or fried rice for a complete meal. Serve it with a glass of chilled white wine or green tea for a refreshing beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through or stir-fry it in a skillet over medium heat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese is a well-balanced dish that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Summary

Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With its tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the birds were chirping, and the smell of jasmine filled the air. I was visiting my dear friend Mei Ling, a Chinese immigrant who had quickly become like a sister to me. She had invited me over for lunch, promising me a taste of her famous Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese.

As I walked into Mei Ling's kitchen, I was greeted by the sight of her bustling around the stove, a whirlwind of activity as she chopped vegetables and stirred pots. The aroma of garlic and ginger wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Mei Ling had a smile on her face as she greeted me, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Ah, you're just in time, my dear friend," she said, gesturing for me to take a seat at the table. "I am about to teach you the secret to making the perfect Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese."

I watched in awe as Mei Ling worked her magic, effortlessly combining ingredients and flavors in a way that seemed like second nature to her. She explained each step to me in detail, from marinating the chicken in soy sauce and rice wine to stir-frying it with a medley of vegetables and spices.

As the dish began to take shape before my eyes, I could hardly contain my excitement. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas captivated me, and I knew that I was about to taste something truly special.

Finally, Mei Ling plated the Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese and placed it in front of me, a masterpiece of flavors and textures. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a world of culinary bliss. The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce danced on my taste buds, creating a symphony of flavors that I had never experienced before.

As I savored each mouthful, Mei Ling watched me with a twinkle in her eye, knowing that she had passed on a precious gift to me. She had not only shared her recipe for Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese but had also imparted her love for cooking and the joy of sharing good food with others.

From that day on, Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for family and friends, sharing the recipe and the memories of that fateful day with anyone who would listen. Each time I cooked the dish, I would think of Mei Ling and the bond that we shared over our love for food and friendship.

Years passed, and Mei Ling eventually returned to China to be with her family. But the recipe for Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese remained a constant reminder of our time together, a connection that transcended distance and time.

Today, as I stand in my kitchen preparing the same dish that Mei Ling taught me so many years ago, I can still hear her voice guiding me through each step. The familiar aromas of garlic and ginger fill the air, and I am reminded once again of the love and passion that went into creating this recipe.

As I take a bite of the Stir-fried Chicken Cantonese, I am transported back to that warm summer day, sitting at Mei Ling's table and sharing a meal that would forever bond us together. And in that moment, I am grateful for the gift of friendship, the joy of cooking, and the timeless beauty of a recipe passed down through generations.