Chinese Satay Chicken Stir Fry

Fancy an easy weeknight dinner? Find out how to stir-fry marinated chicken with a satay sauce.

chicken stir fry recipe title

Craving a takeout favorite without the guilt?

Dive into this Chinese Satay Chicken Stir Fry recipe, where tender chicken meets a luscious, nutty sauce in a dance of flavor.

Get ready to unlock the secrets to a weeknight dinner that's both quick and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients List

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Okay, let's assemble the cast for our star dish. First, you'll need two bream or snapper fish–about 12 to 13 ounces each. Sounds fancy, I know, but any firm white fish will do. I also prefer whole fish for juiciness, but fillets are okay if you're in a hurry.

Next up: the flavor boosters! I'm talking two stems of shallots, and four 3cm pieces of ginger, both julienned and ready to party in the pan.

Now, for the sauce, grab 2 tablespoons of Japanese cooking sake–or sherry if you're feeling cheeky–plus 3 teaspoons of soy sauce. I like a dash of sesame oil (2 teaspoons) for a nutty finish.

Don't forget the salt – just two pinches will do! Got all that? Oh, and a little red chili, sliced, if you're feeling brave. Last, you will need 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil. You can also modify this recipe to use chicken thigh or breast, offering further flexibility.

Step-by-Step Guide

step by step instructional guide

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, I'll guide you on how I cook this awesome dish. First, get your chicken – remember those bite-sized pieces? – and you're going to want to marinate them for at least 15 minutes. For the best results, consider using everyday ingredients to ensure everyone can enjoy this meal.

Next, heat a tablespoon of oil in your wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. I'm telling you, get it hot! Then, stir-fry the chicken until it's cooked. Remove it and set aside.

Now, add another tablespoon of oil – don't be shy! – and stir-fry your veggies until they are tender-crisp. Don't overcook them; nobody likes mushy veggies.

Finally, return the chicken to the pan, pour in the satay sauce and stir until everything is coated. Serve hot over rice! I'm excited for you to try this out.

Tips and Variations

helpful hints different options
  • Use different veggies! Bell peppers, snow peas–anything that's crunchy and colorful.
  • Add spice! A pinch of red pepper flakes'll kick it up.
  • Marinate longer; the flavor gets deeper!
  • Try different nuts in the sauce; peanut butter isn't the *only* option; cashews could add cream, for instance!

Don't be afraid to swap soy sauce for tamari if you're dodging gluten! I also love adding a splash of lime juice at the end for zing–trust me, it's a game changer! And, hey, if you're feeling adventurous, a little sriracha in the satay sauce can be *amazing*!

Serving Suggestions

food presentation ideas only

I think you'll find that serving this Chinese Satay Chicken Stir Fry is as fun as making it!

First, I recommend serving it hot – steaming, even – over a bed of fluffy rice, like jasmine or basmati. I like mine piled high! Trust me, you'll want every grain coated in that heavenly satay sauce.

For sides, consider some steamed Asian greens—think bok choy or gai lan. They offer a nice, fresh contrast to the rich, savory chicken. If you're feeling fancy, a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a few chopped scallions always amplify the presentation.

Or, make it a complete meal-in-one with some stir-fried noodles tossed in. It's entirely up to you! And remember, don't be afraid to experiment — add a dollop of chili sauce if you like it spicy. Enjoy!

Short Recipe Version

Chinese Satay Chicken Stir Fry (Short Version)

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp ginger, ground
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, peppers)
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Marinate chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch for 10 minutes.
  2. Whisk together peanut butter, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  4. Stir-fry chicken until cooked through. Set aside.
  5. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet. Pour satay sauce over chicken and vegetables, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until heated through.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds. Serve over rice.

Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 40g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g