Name: Delicious Chicken Chop Suey for Quick Family Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast (Cook to 165°F (75°C)); 2 cups Bell Peppers (Any color); 1 cup Carrots (Chopped); 1 cup Onion (Chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce; 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Can use arrowroot powder); 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (Canola or peanut oil recommended)

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself craving a dish that could anchor my hectic day with a splash of comfort. Enter Chicken Chop Suey with Easy Stir-Fry Sauce. Just imagining the vibrant colors of fresh bell peppers and tender chicken dancing in a savory glaze ignites my enthusiasm for home-cooked meals. This quick recipe not only allows for a delightful explosion of flavors but also offers the freedom to customize with your favorite vegetables, making it perfect for any palate. Plus, it’s a fantastic gluten-free option that turns a beloved takeout classic into a wholesome dinner fit for the entire family. Ready to bring a bit of that restaurant magic into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delicious journey!

Why is Chicken Chop Suey a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This delightful dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Customization Galore: With countless vegetable options at your disposal, feel free to tailor each batch to suit your taste—swap in seasonal favorites or use up leftovers!

Flavor-Packed: The easy stir-fry sauce melds beautifully with the fresh ingredients, creating a savory experience that beats takeout every time.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Chicken Chop Suey is sure to impress and satisfy the whole crew!

Guilt-Free Indulgence: Opt for gluten-free soy sauce and enjoy this wholesome meal without sacrificing taste. For those craving more chicken dishes, you might also love Garlic Butter Chicken or Savory Chicken Piccata.

Chicken Chop Suey Ingredients

Transform your kitchen into a flavor haven with these essentials!

For the Chicken and Veggies

Chicken Breast – The star ingredient, offers tenderness and juiciness; ensure it’s cooked to 165°F (75°C).
Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness and crunch; substitute with any color for a beautiful presentation.
Carrots – Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color; swap with zucchini or broccoli for variety.
Onion – Builds the perfect flavor foundation; choose red, yellow, or white onions for different tastes.
Garlic – Enhances flavor complexity; fresh garlic is best, but powdered garlic can do in a pinch.

For the Sauces

Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; use tamari for a gluten-free Chicken Chop Suey option.
Oyster Sauce – Gives depth to your stir-fry; hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce can work as alternatives.

For Thickening

Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for that perfect glaze; arrowroot powder is a suitable substitution.

For Cooking

Vegetable Oil – Essential for stir-frying; choose a high smoke-point oil like canola or peanut oil for best results.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Chop Suey

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients for the Chicken Chop Suey. Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and chop the vegetables—bell peppers, carrots, and onions—into uniform sizes for even cooking. A sharp knife and a cutting board will make your prep smoother. Aim for a colorful array, as this dish is not only delicious but visually appealing!

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the diced chicken, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This gives your Chicken Chop Suey a flavorful, seared base.

Step 3: Add Aromatics
With the chicken cooked, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Stir-fry your aromatics for another 1-2 minutes until the onions become translucent and aromatic. The fragrance should fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s time to elevate the flavor profile of your Chicken Chop Suey.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the colorful bell peppers and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while maintaining their crispness. This balance gives your Chicken Chop Suey that satisfying contrast of textures that everyone loves, while also brightening the dish.

Step 5: Sauce Integration
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the pan, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Watch as the vibrant colors of the Chicken Chop Suey are enveloped in a glossy glaze that enhances each ingredient.

Step 6: Simmer
Reduce the heat to medium and let the Chicken Chop Suey simmer for about 2-3 minutes. The sauce will begin to thicken, creating a perfect coating for the chicken and veggies. Stir occasionally, ensuring that everything is heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve Hot
Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, it’s time to serve. Plate your Chicken Chop Suey promptly while it’s hot, garnishing with additional green onions if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, paired with steamed rice or fried rice to make a complete and satisfying meal.

Make Ahead Options

Chicken Chop Suey is a fantastic choice for meal prep, letting you save valuable time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and even marinate the chicken in soy sauce up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors but also keeps the ingredients fresh and ready to go. To maintain the quality of your finish, toss everything together right before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy your Chicken Chop Suey, simply stir-fry the marinated chicken, add the aromatics and veggies, and finish with the sauce for a delicious meal that tastes just as vibrant and satisfying as if made fresh!

Chicken Chop Suey Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this Chicken Chop Suey recipe and tailor it to your taste buds with these delightful twists!

Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a delicious, varied protein source.
Vegetable Medley: Any variety of vegetables works! Try snow peas, zucchini, or napa cabbage for extra crunch and flavor. Mix and match seasonal vegetables to keep it exciting!
Spicy Twist: Add heat by tossing in red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies. A little spice can elevate the entire dish, making each bite a flavor adventure.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil added just before serving give a fragrant finish. The aroma will waft through your kitchen and entice everyone to the table.
Sweeten the Deal: For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a splash of teriyaki sauce or a few pineapple chunks. The sweetness balances the savory notes beautifully.
Gluten-Free Delight: Swap regular soy sauce for tamari to keep this dish gluten-free while maintaining all the umami goodness. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions!
Crunch Factor: Want to add texture? Toss in some water chestnuts or sliced almonds for that extra crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken and veggies.
Saucy Goodness: If you love a saucier dish, double the sauce ingredients! A larger quantity makes each spoonful juicy and full of flavor, ideal for pairing with rice or noodles.

Each of these variations invites you to experiment and make this recipe your own! For an equally delicious chicken option, try my Garlic Butter Chicken or grab some inspiration from this savory Chicken Piccata. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

What to Serve with Chicken Chop Suey

Pair your delightful Chicken Chop Suey with these dishes to create a meal that truly satisfies every guest at your table.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, this subtly fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly, balancing the dish’s flavors.
Fried Rice: For added texture and heartiness, serve your Chicken Chop Suey alongside fried rice. The crispy bits offer a delightful contrast!
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy rolls filled with veggies add an extra element of fun to your meal, making it feel like a restaurant-style feast.
Sesame Garlic Green Beans: Tossed in a fragrant sesame oil and garlic mix, these green beans bring a welcome crunch and fresh flavor to the table.
Tangy Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, a light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar adds balance while invigorating your palate.
Chilled Szechuan Noodles: These noodles, seasoned with a spicy sesame dressing, offer a delightful kick and complement the flavors of your Chicken Chop Suey.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, indulge in this sweet treat that contrasts beautifully with the savory main dish, providing a perfect finish to your dining experience.

Elevate your dinner with these delicious pairings, ensuring your Chicken Chop Suey shines as the star of your meal!

Expert Tips for Chicken Chop Suey

Ingredient Flexibility: This dish is highly adaptable; feel free to use seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavor in your Chicken Chop Suey.
Pre-Prep Advantage: Chop your vegetables ahead of time and marinate the chicken in soy sauce to save time and enhance flavor!
Heat Matters: Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding ingredients to avoid steaming—this keeps your Chicken Chop Suey crispy and inviting.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thin, mix a bit more cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken it up perfectly.
Serving Fresh: Serve immediately for the best texture; this dish can lose its crispness if left too long before plating.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chop Suey

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Chop Suey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Chop Suey in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, add a splash of water or broth to the pan to help steam the dish back to life and prevent it from drying out.

Labeling: Always label your containers with the date, so you can keep track of freshness. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Chop Suey whenever you crave that delicious flavor!

Chicken Chop Suey Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken breast?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breast, look for pieces that are plump, moist, and free from any discoloration or dark spots. Fresh chicken should have a light pink color and a slight sheen. Feel that it’s firm to the touch, and avoid any that have a slimy texture or strong odor, as these could indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftover Chicken Chop Suey?
After you’ve enjoyed your Chicken Chop Suey, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll remain fresh for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Chicken Chop Suey?
Yes, you can! To freeze Chicken Chop Suey, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the dish will expand when frozen. Properly stored, it will maintain quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if my Chicken Chop Suey is too saucy?
Very! If you find that your Chicken Chop Suey is too saucy, don’t worry! Simply continue to simmer it on low heat without a lid for a few minutes to encourage evaporation. If it’s still too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it in, then simmer until thickened to your liking.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Chicken Chop Suey can be easily adapted to fit dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply swap regular soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. If you have allergies, be sure to double-check any sauces you use, especially oyster sauce, as it may contain shellfish. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that onions and garlic should be avoided, as they’re toxic to dogs and cats.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Of course! Using frozen vegetables can make your Chicken Chop Suey even quicker to prepare. Just be aware that frozen veggies might release a bit more moisture during cooking, so you may want to reduce the amount of water in your sauce slightly. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy this dish when fresh produce isn’t available!