If you love the tender meat and crunchy coating of restaurant-style chicken stir-fry, here’s the good news—you can make it at home, and it’s easier than you think. The secret? Cornstarch. This simple ingredient not only makes your chicken extra crispy but also helps thicken the stir-fry sauce for that glossy, delicious finish.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make stir fry with cornstarch, step-by-step, so you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal without ordering takeout.
Why Cornstarch is the Key to Crispy Chicken
Cornstarch works in two ways:
- Crisp Coating – When used as a light dusting before cooking, it forms a thin crust that locks in the chicken’s juices.
- Sauce Thickener – A cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) gives your stir-fry sauce that silky, restaurant-style texture.
This dual action makes cornstarch a stir-fry essential, especially if you want your crispy chicken stir-fry with cornstarch to rival any takeout dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 3 tbsp cornstarch (plus extra for sauce)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for richness)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Stir Fry with Cornstarch
1. Marinate and Coat the Chicken
In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, salt, pepper, and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. Toss until evenly coated. This coating will crisp up when cooked.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches (avoid overcrowding) and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the carrots and broccoli first (they take longer to cook), then add bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir in the cornstarch slurry.
5. Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir until it thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
6. Serve
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry
- Dry the Chicken Well: Moisture prevents crispiness.
- Cook in Batches: Crowding the pan makes chicken steam instead of sear.
- Adjust the Sauce: Add chili flakes or sriracha for spice, or more sugar for sweetness.
- Use High Heat: Stir-fry is best cooked quickly at high temperatures.
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – The classic pairing.
- Egg Fried Rice – Adds extra flavor and texture.
- Lo Mein Noodles – Perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Asian Slaw – Light and refreshing side dish.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid Freezing: Cornstarch-coated chicken loses crispiness when frozen.
FAQs
Q: Can I use cornstarch alternatives?
A: Yes, potato starch works well for a similar texture.
Q: Can I air-fry the chicken?
A: Yes, coat with cornstarch and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Do I need oyster sauce?
A: It’s optional but adds depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making crispy chicken stir-fry with cornstarch at home is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of crunchy chicken, colorful vegetables, and glossy sauce makes it a weeknight favorite.
Once you know how to make stir fry with cornstarch, you can adapt the recipe with different meats, vegetables, and sauces—endless possibilities for delicious homemade stir-fries.