Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry

Introduction

When I first made this Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry, I was looking for a way to incorporate the vibrant flavors of summer into a comforting family meal. The combination of juicy mango with tender, crispy chicken and colorful vegetables was a hit from the very first bite. My family couldn’t get enough of it, asking for seconds and raving about the balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The dish was not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for dinner. It quickly became a staple in our kitchen, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you!

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Mango Chicken Stir Fry, gather the following ingredients:

For Frying the Chicken:

• 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• Neutral oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp cooking oil
• 2 tbsp chopped garlic
• 2-3 green chilies, chopped
• 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup bell peppers, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 4 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp red chili paste
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup ripe mango, peeled and cubed
• Chopped spring onion greens (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Mango Chicken Stir Fry:

Fry the Chicken:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, ginger garlic paste, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the cubed chicken evenly with the flour mixture.
3. Heat oil in a pan over high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

1. In a wok, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over high heat.
2. Add the chopped garlic and green chilies, stir-frying for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the onion and bell peppers to the wok, cooking for about 1 minute until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the dark soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, red chili paste, tomato ketchup, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 cup of water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the wok, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.

Combine and Serve:

1. Add the fried chicken and mango cubes to the wok. Stir well to coat everything with the sauce.
2. Garnish with chopped spring onion greens and serve hot.

Enjoy this sweet and spicy Mango Chicken Stir Fry with rice or noodles!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 calories
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 25g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

To make the most of your Mango Chicken Stir Fry, consider these serving suggestions:

• Serve over steamed white rice or fried rice.
• Pair with noodles for a different texture and flavor.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or additional spring onion greens.
• Offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
• Serve with a side of crispy spring rolls or egg rolls for an authentic touch.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Ripe Mangoes: Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor and texture in the stir fry.
2. Adjust Spice Level: Modify the number of green chilies according to your heat preference. Remove the seeds for less spice.
3. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
4. Marinate Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger garlic paste for 30 minutes before coating.
5. Use a High Smoke Point Oil: Opt for oils like canola or peanut oil for frying to achieve a crispy texture without burning.

Recipe Variations

This recipe can be customized in many ways:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, coating it in the same flour mixture and frying until golden.
• Different Fruits: Experiment with pineapple or peach instead of mango for a tropical twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate cashews or peanuts for a crunchy texture.
• Spicy Mango Sauce: Blend ripe mangoes with chili flakes and vinegar to create a spicy sauce to drizzle over the finished dish.

Serving Suggestions

Complement your Mango Chicken Stir Fry with these ideas:

• Salads: A refreshing cucumber and carrot salad adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors.
• Soups: Start with a hot and sour soup for a complete Asian-themed meal.
• Beverages: Serve with a light iced tea or a sparkling drink to cleanse the palate.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This stir fry can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen mango?

• Yes, you can use frozen mango, but fresh mango will provide the best texture and flavor.

1. How can I make this dish less spicy?

• Reduce or omit the green chilies and red chili paste to adjust the heat level.

1. What type of chicken should I use?

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe.

1. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

• Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

1. What if I don’t have dark soy sauce?

• You can substitute with regular soy sauce, but the flavor will be slightly different.

1. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

1. Can I use other vegetables?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables.

1. What can I serve with this dish?

• Rice, noodles, or even a side of steamed vegetables pair wonderfully.

1. How long does it take to fry the chicken?

• Frying each batch takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat.

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance for quicker cooking.

Conclusion

Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table. The sweet mango pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken and the savory sauce, creating a delightful meal that is sure to please everyone. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this stir fry is both easy to make and impressive to serve. Give it a try, and watch it become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine!

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