As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzling sound of chicken hitting the pan brought me right back to those lively evenings spent at my favorite Chinese restaurant. Today, I’m sharing a little gem: Chicken Chop Suey. This vibrant dish not only delivers a medley of colorful veggies but also promises a quick and easy solution for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal that’s both a comfort food classic and a healthful upgrade to your takeout routines. With tender chicken and crisp vegetables simmered in a savory sauce, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Are you ready to bring a taste of that restaurant magic into your home? Let’s dive in!
Why is Chicken Chop Suey a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This Chicken Chop Suey requires only 30 minutes from prep to table, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Sauces: The blend of soy and oyster sauces creates a rich, savory taste that elevates simple ingredients.
Colorful Veggies: Packed with bell peppers, carrots, and bean sprouts, this dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate!
Customizable: Tailor it to your preference by adding your favorite proteins or veggies. Try it with Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Crockpot Chicken Corn for more variations!
Healthier Choice: Ditch the takeout—enjoy a home-cooked meal rich in nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing colors and delicious taste, this dish is sure to impress family and friends!
Chicken Chop Suey Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
• Oil – 2 tablespoons, use a neutral oil like vegetable for a mild flavor.
• Chicken – 1 cup, sliced; opt for boneless and skinless chicken breasts for tenderness.
• Bell Peppers – 1 cup, sliced; a mix of colors adds vibrancy and sweetness.
• Carrots – 1 cup, sliced; these provide a natural sweetness that complements the savory notes.
• Celery – 1 cup, sliced; it adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the overall texture.
• Bean Sprouts – 1 cup; these are key for that classic crunch in Chicken Chop Suey.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – 3 tablespoons, this is essential for the umami flavor that defines Chicken Chop Suey.
• Oyster Sauce – 1 tablespoon; it brings depth and richness, making the sauce irresistible.
• Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon; this will thicken your sauce nicely for a perfect consistency.
• Water – ½ cup; adjust the amount for a thinner or thicker sauce according to your preference.
Get ready to whip up this delightful dish and transform your mealtime routine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Chop Suey
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it is hot enough for cooking. This step is crucial as it helps to achieve that perfect sear on your chicken, enhancing its flavor as you prepare your Chicken Chop Suey.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add 1 cup of sliced chicken to the heated oil, spreading it evenly across the pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center. This ensures your chicken is tender and juicy, forming a flavorful base for your delectable Chicken Chop Suey.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Once the chicken is cooked through, toss in 1 cup each of sliced bell peppers, carrots, and celery. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for 3-5 minutes until they are crisp-tender and brightly colored. This step brings a delightful crunch and offers a beautiful visual appeal to your Chicken Chop Suey.
Step 4: Add Bean Sprouts
Next, mix in 1 cup of bean sprouts and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes. The bean sprouts should retain their crispy texture while absorbing the wonderful flavors of the dish. This adds a classic touch to your Chicken Chop Suey, ensuring every bite is packed with freshness and crunch.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and ½ cup of water until well combined. This flavorful sauce will thicken beautifully, creating a savory coating that enhances the overall taste of your Chicken Chop Suey.
Step 6: Combine Sauce with Stir-Fry
Pour the sauce mixture over the stir-fried chicken and vegetables, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. Continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to your Chicken Chop Suey, enveloping it in savory goodness that invites everyone to the table.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Your Chicken Chop Suey is now ready to be served hot, over rice or noodles if desired. The colorful medley and rich flavors make this dish an inviting centerpiece for dinner, perfect for satisfying your cravings for homemade goodness.
Tips for the Best Chicken Chop Suey
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Prep Ingredients First: Before you start cooking, slice all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the stir-fry process faster and ensures even cooking in your Chicken Chop Suey.
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High Heat Cooking: Use medium-high heat for cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken and keeps the veggies crisp, preventing them from becoming soggy.
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Customize with Proteins: Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked perfectly in your Chicken Chop Suey.
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Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Add the vegetables according to their cooking times; bell peppers and celery should remain crisp. This enhances the dish's texture and flavor.
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Thickening Sauce Tips: If your sauce isn't thickening as you want, mix a little more cornstarch with water and add it gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps in your Chicken Chop Suey.
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Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve your Chicken Chop Suey right away while it’s hot and fresh, allowing those delightful tastes to shine!
Make Ahead Options
Chicken Chop Suey is a fantastic option for meal prep that saves you time during hectic weeknights! You can chop and refrigerate the vegetables—bell peppers, carrots, and celery—up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can slice the chicken and store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours to ensure freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your Chicken Chop Suey, simply sauté the chicken and veggies, then add the bean sprouts and sauce mixture, cooking until everything is heated through. This advance preparation keeps the dish just as delicious, allowing those vibrant flavors to shine through while easing your weeknight cooking stress.
What to Serve with Chicken Chop Suey
Savor the vibrant flavors and textures of a complete meal that perfectly complements your Chicken Chop Suey.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice soaks up the savory sauce, providing a wonderful balance to the dish. It transforms your meal into a comforting experience with every satisfying bite.
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Garlic Noodles: With their rich, buttery flavor and a hint of garlic, these noodles offer a delightful twist that elevates the overall dining experience. They also deliver a lovely contrast to the crunchy vegetables in your Chicken Chop Suey.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden bites offer a crunchy exterior and a warm, flavorful filling. Their textural contrast and light crunch make them a perfect appetizer to kick off your meal.
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Soy-Glazed Edamame: These protein-packed beans are not only delicious but also add a pleasingly salty and nutty flavor. Serve them warm, sprinkled with sea salt, for a satisfying starter while you await your Chicken Chop Suey.
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Szechuan Coleslaw: A refreshing mix of crunchy cabbage and vibrant vegetables, tossed in a tangy dressing. This slaw adds a crisp and cool element that perfectly balances the warmth of the Chicken Chop Suey.
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Chilled Sesame Noodle Salad: Featuring silky noodles and a tangy sesame dressing, this dish adds a lightness that's especially nice against the robust textures of Chicken Chop Suey. Plus, it can be made ahead for easy entertaining!
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Fortune Cookies: End your meal with a light, sweet crunch and a side of fun! The playful surprise inside pairs perfectly with your flavorful Chicken Chop Suey, bringing a smile to everyone’s face.
Chicken Chop Suey Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these delightful twists that’ll make your Chicken Chop Suey even more tempting!
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a flavorful plant-based alternative that’s just as satisfying. You’ll still get that hearty goodness in each bite!
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the stir-fry for a fiery kick that enhances the flavor profile. Perfect for those who crave a bit of heat in their meals!
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Noodle Addition: Stir in cooked lo mein or rice noodles right at the end for a heartier dish that’s perfect for noodle lovers. It transforms your Chicken Chop Suey into a comforting, filling meal.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped water chestnuts or chopped peanuts for a delightful crunch that complements the tender veggies beautifully. You’ll love the added texture!
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Asian Flair: Drizzle a little sesame oil or sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished dish to elevate the umami notes. This small addition makes a world of difference in flavor!
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Cabbage Twist: Incorporate shredded cabbage instead of, or alongside, bean sprouts for added crunch and a nutritional boost. This simple swap is a great way to sneak in extra veggies!
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Flavorful Marinade: Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic before cooking to infuse it with rich flavors. It’s a quick step that pays off deliciously!
Feeling inspired? With these variations, your Chicken Chop Suey can shine with new flavors and textures! And if you're looking for more variety, consider trying other delicious chicken recipes like Pesto Chicken Pasta or Cowboy Butter Chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chop Suey
Fridge: Store Chicken Chop Suey in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze Chicken Chop Suey for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
Meal Prep: This dish is excellent for batch cooking! Preparing a large batch allows you to enjoy homemade fare whenever cravings strike.
Chicken Chop Suey Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken for Chicken Chop Suey?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are firm, moist, and free from dark spots. Fresh chicken should have a pink hue, and avoid any chicken with an off smell or slimy texture, as it may be spoiled.
How should I store leftover Chicken Chop Suey?
To store your Chicken Chop Suey, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure it has completely cooled before sealing the container to maintain its flavor and texture!
Can I freeze Chicken Chop Suey? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Chop Suey! First, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
What if my Chicken Chop Suey sauce isn't thickening?
Very! If your sauce isn't thickening to your liking, mix an additional 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this to the pan while stirring continuously. Cook for another minute or two until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This keeps your Chicken Chop Suey deliciously coated and flavorful!
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Chop Suey?
Certainly! For those with allergies, be cautious of soy sauce and oyster sauce, as they contain gluten and seafood, respectively. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free soy sauce. If cooking for pets, avoid feeding them this dish because of the soy sauce and additives that can be harmful. Always check ingredient labels if catering to specific dietary needs.
Savory Chicken Chop Suey for a Quick Homemade Delight
Equipment
- large skillet
- wok
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 2 tablespoons oil use a neutral oil like vegetable for a mild flavor
- 1 cup chicken sliced; opt for boneless and skinless chicken breasts for tenderness
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced; a mix of colors adds vibrancy and sweetness
- 1 cup carrots sliced; provides a natural sweetness
- 1 cup celery sliced; adds a satisfying crunch
- 1 cup bean sprouts key for that classic crunch
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce essential for umami flavor
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce brings depth and richness
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch will thicken your sauce
- ½ cup water adjust for sauce thickness
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 cup of sliced chicken to the pan, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add 1 cup each of sliced bell peppers, carrots, and celery, stir-frying for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Mix in 1 cup of bean sprouts, stir-frying for another 2 minutes.
- Whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water in a separate bowl until combined.
- Pour the sauce over the stir-fried chicken and vegetables, stirring gently and cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, over rice or noodles if desired.
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