If you love stir-fry dishes, this Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe with Cornstarch is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The crispy chicken, paired with fresh vegetables and savory sauce, creates a mouthwatering dish that can be enjoyed on busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into how to make crispy chicken in a stir-fry using simple ingredients and cornstarch.
Why Use Cornstarch for Crispy Chicken?
Cornstarch is a secret ingredient that takes stir-fried chicken to the next level. It’s commonly used in many Asian-inspired recipes to achieve that perfect crispy texture on the chicken. When mixed with a little water, cornstarch creates a light, crunchy coating that seals in the chicken’s juices, ensuring each bite is tender on the inside and crisp on the outside.
But it’s not just about the texture. Cornstarch also helps thicken stir-fry sauces, making them stick better to the chicken and vegetables, resulting in a flavorful, well-coated dish.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here’s everything you need for this Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe:
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for marinating the chicken)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for stir-frying)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (diced)
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup carrots (thinly sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons ginger (freshly grated)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (for the stir-fry sauce)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Green onions (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Toss the chicken until it’s well coated. The cornstarch will help create that crispy coating when fried. Let the chicken sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the stir-fry sauce. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir until everything is well combined. Set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and crispy on the outside. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—if needed, cook the chicken in batches.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add a little more sesame oil if needed and toss in the garlic, ginger, bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the crispy chicken to the skillet. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the crispy chicken stir-fry to a serving plate. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve the dish hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Perfect Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry
- Use the right chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, but you can also use thighs for a juicier option.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch: The cornstarch coating is essential for achieving crispy chicken. Make sure the chicken is coated well before frying.
- Customize the vegetables: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables such as snap peas, mushrooms, or onions to suit your taste.
- Control the heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. You can also omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe with Cornstarch is the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s fast, flavorful, and can be easily customized based on what you have in your fridge. The crispy chicken is packed with flavor, while the vegetables provide a nice crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.
Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to takeout. By making this dish at home, you control the ingredients, reducing the sodium and unhealthy fats found in many restaurant stir-fries.
Health Benefits of Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with health benefits too:
- Protein-packed: Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vegetables for vitamins: The bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots provide a variety of essential vitamins like vitamin A, C, and K.
- Antioxidants: Ginger and garlic are full of antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost immunity.
- Low in calories: By using minimal oil and incorporating lots of vegetables, this dish is lower in calories compared to many other fried foods.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering how to make crispy chicken in a stir-fry, this recipe is the answer! It’s simple, quick, and results in a deliciously crispy and flavorful meal. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this crispy chicken stir-fry will impress everyone at the dinner table.
Give this Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe with Cornstarch a try, and you’ll see just how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home!