Name: Savory Chicken Chop Suey: A Quick, Healthy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (Essential for stir-frying and adding flavor); 1 cup sliced chicken breast (Use fresh for tender meat); 1 cup sliced bell peppers (Red, yellow, or green); 1 cup broccoli florets (Packed with nutrients); 1 cup sliced carrots (Slice thinly for best texture); 1 cup bean sprouts (Adds a crunchy texture); 3 tablespoons soy sauce (For gluten-free, substitute with tamari); 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (Skip for vegetarian); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (Thickens the sauce); ½ cup chicken broth (Can use vegetable broth); 1 tablespoon minced garlic (Infuses with aromatic flavor); 1 tablespoon minced ginger (Key for authentic flavor); salt and pepper (To taste)

In a bustling kitchen filled with tantalizing aromas, one dish always steals the show: Chicken Chop Suey. This vibrant meal is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wonderful way to bring the family together around the table. With its delightful combination of crunchy vegetables and tender chicken, this recipe is highly customizable to fit your taste and dietary preferences, including a gluten-free option! What I love most is how it comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and satisfying without the drive-thru temptation. So, are you ready to dive in and whip up a delicious, homemade Chicken Chop Suey that will have everyone asking for seconds?

Why is Chicken Chop Suey a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Customizable: You can adapt the ingredients to suit your family's preferences; swap in your favorite veggies or protein and even try a gluten-free option using tamari.

Heartwarming Flavors: The delicious combination of garlic, ginger, and savory sauces creates a comforting and vibrant dish that satisfies every palate.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or as a meal prep option, this Chicken Chop Suey is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, it’s a wonderful way to keep your meals nutritious and satisfying.

Dive into this delightful Chicken Chop Suey recipe for a healthy twist on a classic dish that everyone will love!

Chicken Chop Suey Ingredients

• Discover everything you need for your savory creation!

For the Chicken and Veggies

Vegetable oil – Essential for stir-frying and adding flavor.
Chicken breast – Use fresh, sliced chicken for tender meat that melds perfectly with vegetables.
Bell peppers – Add vibrant color and a touch of sweetness; red, yellow, or green all work beautifully.
Broccoli florets – These bring a delightful crunch and are packed with nutrients.
Carrots – Slice them thinly for a sweet crunch that complements the other veggies.
Bean sprouts – They add a fresh, crunchy texture that elevates the dish.

For the Sauce

Soy sauce – The key to a rich, umami flavor; for a gluten-free option, substitute with tamari.
Oyster sauce – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness; you could skip for a vegetarian version.
Cornstarch – This is what thickens your sauce for that perfect coating consistency.
Chicken broth – Provides extra moisture and flavor; feel free to use vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic deliciousness.
Ginger – Pungent and warming, ginger is key in giving that authentic Asian flavor.
Salt and pepper – Use these to season and elevate all the natural flavors in the dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Chop Suey

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer for a few moments, indicating that it's hot enough for cooking. This step is crucial for achieving a wonderful sear on the chicken, setting the stage for the Chicken Chop Suey’s rich flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add 1 cup of sliced chicken breast to the hot skillet. Stir the chicken pieces frequently, cooking them for about 5 minutes or until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. The chicken should have a nice sear, adding depth to the Chicken Chop Suey.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen is filled with their enticing fragrance, enhancing the flavor profile of the Chicken Chop Suey.

Step 4: Add Vegetables
Next, toss in 1 cup each of sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots, along with 1 cup of bean sprouts. Stir-fry this colorful medley for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. They should retain a vibrant color and a slight crunch, which is essential for the texture of your Chicken Chop Suey.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and ½ cup of chicken broth until smooth. This mixture is key to creating a rich, savory sauce that will beautifully coat the chicken and vegetables in your Chicken Chop Suey.

Step 6: Combine Sauce with Stir-Fry
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken, clinging nicely to the protein and vegetables and creating a deliciously savory Chicken Chop Suey.

Step 7: Season and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, season your Chicken Chop Suey with salt and pepper to taste. Stir lightly to combine all the flavors before removing the skillet from the heat. Serve this dish hot over a bed of rice or noodles, and relish the delightful medley of textures and flavors.

What to Serve with Chicken Chop Suey?

Transform your Chicken Chop Suey into a memorable feast with these delightful pairing suggestions.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant, fluffy base that soaks up the luscious sauce, enhancing every bite of your Chicken Chop Suey.
Lo Mein Noodles: Chewy and satisfying, lo mein noodles provide a fun twist, delivering an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy delights offer a delicious contrast to the tender ingredients of the Chicken Chop Suey, adding tasty variety to your meal.
Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad’s brightness offers a balance to the savory flavors of your main dish, making each bite more vibrant.
Hot and Sour Soup: A warm, tangy complement that will excite your palate, perfect for kicking off your meal and awakening your taste buds.
Chilled Green Tea: Light and refreshing, this drink cools down heat from the dish, while enhancing the overall dining experience with its subtle, calming flavors.

Chicken Chop Suey Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful substitutions and twists to make this Chicken Chop Suey uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari to create a delicious dish that everyone can enjoy without worry. It's a small swap with big flavor impact!
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu for a plant-based alternative. Just make sure to press the tofu first to remove excess moisture for a perfect texture.
Extra Heat: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for some heat. This will elevate your Chicken Chop Suey with a zesty, spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Crunchy Nuts: Toss in some roasted cashews or almonds for an added crunch. They bring a delightful texture and extra flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Asian Twist: Incorporate water chestnuts for a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness. These little gems add unique texture and enhance the overall experience.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the finished dish for a burst of bright flavor. It’ll wake up your palate and add a refreshing twist!
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions before serving. This will not only add a pop of color but also a fragrant aromatic finish that will bring your Chicken Chop Suey to life.
Bulk It Up: Add an extra cup of mixed vegetables such as snow peas or zucchini to make your meal heartier. These additions keep the crunch while ensuring everyone feels satisfied.

Remember, the magic of Chicken Chop Suey lies in its versatility. Don’t hesitate to mix and match to suit your family’s preferences! And if you're looking for more delicious ideas, why not check out our Serving Suggestions for enhancing your meal further? Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Chicken Chop Suey

Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to swap out veggies like snow peas or zucchini for a different twist while keeping the core flavor intact in your Chicken Chop Suey.
Proper Heat Control: Always use medium-high heat to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture; if the heat is too low, your ingredients may steam instead of sear.
Thickening Tricks: If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in. This helps rescue your Chicken Chop Suey from being too watery.
Prepping Ahead: To save time during the week, pre-chop your veggies and marinate your chicken in soy sauce beforehand, making your cooking process quicker and easier.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your Chicken Chop Suey over steamed rice or stir in cooked noodles for a complete meal that your family will love.

Storage Tips for Chicken Chop Suey

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This ensures your Chicken Chop Suey remains fresh and full of flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Stir gently until heated through.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time for quicker cooking. Just remember that it's best enjoyed fresh!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Chop Suey ingredients are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can slice the chicken and chop the vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce mixture (soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth) a day ahead as well. When you're ready to serve, just toss everything into the skillet and follow the cooking instructions from start to finish—this way, you'll enjoy a deliciously vibrant Chicken Chop Suey with minimal effort!

Chicken Chop Suey Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken Chop Suey?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh chicken breast because it remains tender and absorbs the flavors wonderfully. You can also use thighs if you prefer a richer taste. Just remember to slice the chicken thinly for quicker cooking.

How do I store leftover Chicken Chop Suey?
Cool down any leftovers and place them in an airtight container. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days while keeping its delightful flavors intact. Just heat it up on the stove with a splash of water for moisture.

Can I freeze Chicken Chop Suey?
Very! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It should last up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water to rehydrate the dish.

What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute vegetables like snap peas, bok choy, or even snap peas depending on your preference. Just try to keep a balance of texture and flavor. If you prefer a crunch, add the veggies that cook quickly toward the end of the stir-fry.

How can I make Chicken Chop Suey gluten-free?
To make this Chicken Chop Suey gluten-free, simply replace regular soy sauce with tamari. It's a great alternative that doesn't compromise on taste. Also, check any sauces you use to ensure they are certified gluten-free for a complete dish.

Why is my sauce not thickening?
If your sauce isn’t thickening, don't worry! In a small bowl, mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into your Chicken Chop Suey and keep cooking for another couple of minutes. This will help achieve that lovely thick consistency you're looking for.