I’m bursting with excitement to share one of my all-time favorite recipes: Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili! It’s like a party in your mouth, full of delicious crunch from the celery and a delightful kick from the chili. Trust me; this dish is going to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love This Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili Recipe
This stir-fry is a total winner! It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch without taking hours to prepare, look no further! The colorful veggies, tender chicken, and the spicy kick will make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less mess and more time to enjoy your culinary creation. Yay!
How to make Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili
Are you ready to whip up this scrumptious meal? Let’s gather our ingredients and get started. Here’s everything you’ll need!
Ingredients for Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 stalks celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2-3 red chilies, thinly sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and chilies, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the wok and stir-fry until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the celery pieces and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and celery. Stir-fry until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly (about 1 minute).
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
What to Serve With Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili
This vibrant dish pairs perfectly with fluffy steamed rice, but don’t stop there! You can also serve it alongside some crunchy stir-fried veggies or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Feeling adventurous? Toss a few spring rolls on the side for the ultimate feast!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips of Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili
If you have leftovers (which is a BIG if because it’s so delicious!), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or skillet until warmed through. If you want to prep ahead of time, marinate the chicken and chop the veggies a day in advance, so you’re all set for a quick weeknight dinner!
Expert Tips for the Perfect Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili
- Slice your chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- If you love some serious heat, add more chilies or even a drizzle of chili oil!
- Make sure your wok or skillet is really hot before you start to ensure that perfect stir-fry sizzle.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Feeling creative? You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp based on your preferences. Want a bit of sweetness? Toss in some bell peppers or sweet corn! You can even use light soy sauce or coconut aminos for a healthier version!
FAQs
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What if I don’t have soy sauce?
No worries! You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about a month. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop!
There you have it, my lovely friends! A scrumptious, colorful bowl of Stir-fried Chicken with Celery and Chili that you can whip up in no time. I can’t wait for you to try it. Happy cooking!