Chicken Chop Suey Recipe

Chicken Chop Suey is a quintessential Chinese-American dish, offering a flavorful and healthy meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients. This stir-fry combines tender pieces of chicken with a vibrant mix of crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce that balances sweet, salty, and umami flavors. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, Chicken Chop Suey is a versatile and satisfying option.

This dish has long been a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, often found on the menus of Chinese restaurants and takeout spots across the country. Its popularity stems from its simple yet delicious combination of flavors and textures, as well as its adaptability—Chicken Chop Suey can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a dish that’s truly your own.

Overview of Chicken Chop Suey

Chicken Chop Suey is a classic stir-fry dish that features bite-sized pieces of chicken, stir-fried with a variety of vegetables such as bean sprouts, bell peppers, celery, and onions. The dish is typically seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sugar, creating a flavorful sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables. The result is a dish that’s both hearty and healthy, with a delightful contrast between the tender chicken and the crunchy vegetables.

One of the reasons Chicken Chop Suey is so popular is its versatility. You can easily swap out the chicken for another protein like beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu, or add more vegetables to suit your taste. The dish can be served over steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles, making it a flexible option that can be tailored to your preferences or dietary needs.

Flavor Profile

• Savory and Umami: The soy sauce and oyster sauce provide a rich umami flavor that’s balanced by a hint of sweetness.
• Crisp and Fresh: The fresh vegetables add a crunchy texture and a burst of natural sweetness, creating a balanced contrast to the savory chicken.
• Light and Satisfying: Unlike heavier dishes, Chicken Chop Suey is light enough to enjoy any time of day, yet filling enough to satisfy your hunger.

Brief History and Cultural Significance

The Origins of Chop Suey

The exact origins of Chop Suey are somewhat debated, but it is widely recognized as one of the earliest Chinese-American dishes. The name “Chop Suey” is derived from the Cantonese word “tsap sui,” which means “miscellaneous pieces.” The dish was likely created as a way to use up leftover ingredients, combining them in a stir-fry that was both economical and flavorful.

Chop Suey became popular in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly among Chinese immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to America. Over time, it evolved into a distinct Chinese-American dish, becoming a staple in Chinese restaurants across the country. While it may not be a traditional dish in China, Chop Suey has become an iconic part of American cuisine, beloved for its adaptability and comforting flavors.

Chicken Chop Suey’s Rise to Popularity

As Chinese restaurants spread throughout the United States, Chicken Chop Suey quickly became a favorite among American diners. Its mild yet flavorful profile made it an accessible introduction to Chinese cuisine for many Americans, who appreciated the dish’s blend of familiar and exotic ingredients. Chicken, being a universally loved protein, was a natural choice for the dish, appealing to a wide audience.

The dish’s popularity was further cemented by its appearance in early Chinese-American cookbooks and its inclusion on nearly every Chinese restaurant menu. Today, Chicken Chop Suey remains a go-to choice for those seeking a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal, whether at home or from their favorite takeout spot.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Yield: Approximately 4 cups of Chicken Chop Suey

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make Chicken Chop Suey, you’ll need the following tools and equipment:

• Wok or Large Skillet: Essential for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables at high heat, ensuring even cooking.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting the chicken and vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for preparing the ingredients.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and tossing the ingredients as they cook.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the sauce ingredients.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For preparing the sauce before adding it to the stir-fry.
• Rice Cooker (optional): For cooking the rice to serve with the Chicken Chop Suey.

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal for this dish because its shape allows for quick, even cooking at high temperatures. If you don’t have a wok, a large, heavy-bottomed skillet will work as well.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces, ensuring they cook evenly and quickly.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for prepping ingredients, preventing damage to your countertops.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: These tools are perfect for stir-frying, allowing you to quickly and efficiently toss the ingredients without damaging them.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in the sauce.
• Small Mixing Bowl: Pre-mixing the sauce ingredients in a bowl ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
• Rice Cooker: While optional, a rice cooker makes it easy to prepare perfectly cooked rice to serve with your Chicken Chop Suey.

Preparation Tips

To make the best Chicken Chop Suey, it’s important to focus on the details during preparation. Here are some tips to help you achieve a dish that’s flavorful, well-balanced, and cooked to perfection.

1. Choosing the Best Chicken

The type of chicken you use can make a big difference in the texture and flavor of your Chicken Chop Suey.

• Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: Chicken thighs are slightly fattier than breasts, making them more flavorful and less likely to dry out during cooking. They also stay tender and juicy, even when cooked at high heat. Chicken breasts, on the other hand, are leaner and will cook more quickly. If you prefer a lighter dish, go for chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
• Organic or Free-Range Chicken: If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture. These options are often less processed and have a more robust flavor than conventionally raised chicken.

2. Cutting the Chicken and Vegetables

Cutting the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly and quickly in the stir-fry.

• Chicken: Slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Cutting against the grain will result in more tender pieces of chicken.
• Vegetables: Aim to cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. For example, slice bell peppers and celery into thin strips, and cut carrots into matchsticks or thin rounds. Bean sprouts and onions can be added as is or sliced thinly, depending on your preference.

3. Preparing the Sauce

The sauce is the heart of Chicken Chop Suey, bringing all the flavors together. Here’s how to make sure it’s just right:

• Balancing Flavors: The sauce typically consists of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sometimes chicken broth or water. The key is to balance the salty, sweet, and umami flavors. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more sugar or a splash of hoisin sauce. For a richer, deeper flavor, increase the amount of oyster sauce.
• Thickening the Sauce: To give the sauce a glossy finish and ensure it clings to the chicken and vegetables, add a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) to the sauce. This will thicken it as it cooks, creating a smooth and luscious coating for the stir-fry.

4. Cooking Techniques

Proper cooking techniques are essential for a perfect Chicken Chop Suey.

• High Heat Stir-Frying: Stir-frying at high heat is crucial for achieving the characteristic texture of this dish. The high heat cooks the chicken and vegetables quickly, keeping them tender-crisp and locking in their flavors. Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the ingredients, and keep them moving in the pan to prevent burning.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: To prevent steaming instead of stir-frying, cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature, causing the chicken to release its juices and become soggy rather than seared.

5. Customization Ideas

One of the best things about Chicken Chop Suey is its versatility. Here are some ideas for customizing the dish to suit your taste:

• Different Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Snow peas, broccoli, mushrooms, and baby corn all work well in this dish.
• Alternative Proteins: Substitute the chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a different take on the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose.
• Spicing It Up: For a bit of heat, add sliced fresh chili peppers, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of chili oil.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple dish like Chicken Chop Suey, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken cooks quickly, especially in a stir-fry. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough chicken. To avoid this, cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center, then remove it from the pan and set it aside while you cook the vegetables.
• Using Low Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to sear the ingredients and lock in their flavors. Cooking over low heat will cause the vegetables to steam rather than stir-fry, resulting in a softer, less vibrant dish.
• Not Prepping Ingredients Before Cooking: Stir-frying is a fast cooking method, so it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This ensures you can move quickly through the recipe without overcooking any components.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to make Chicken Chop Suey. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preferences or the number of servings you need.

For the Chicken Chop Suey:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced into strips
• 2 stalks celery, sliced diagonally
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced into rounds or matchsticks
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Garnishes (Optional):

• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, slice the onion, bell pepper, celery, and carrot. If using mushrooms, slice them as well. Measure out the bean sprouts and set all the vegetables aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (if using). Set the sauce aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Stir-fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes, or until it is just cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.

5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the onions, bell peppers, celery, carrots, and mushrooms (if using). Stir-fry the vegetables over high heat for 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.

6. Combine and Cook

Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

7. Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the simmering chicken and vegetables, allowing the sauce to thicken. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is well-coated.

8. Serve and Garnish

Remove the Chicken Chop Suey from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.

Side Dish and Beverage Pairing Recommendations

Pairing Chicken Chop Suey with complementary sides and beverages can elevate your meal, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Steamed Rice

Steamed White Rice is the classic accompaniment to Chicken Chop Suey. The mild flavor and fluffy texture of the rice provide a perfect base to soak up the savory sauce, allowing the flavors of the stir-fry to shine. For a healthier option, you can serve it with brown rice or quinoa.

2. Fried Rice

For a more indulgent pairing, serve Chicken Chop Suey with Fried Rice. The combination of rice, eggs, peas, and carrots cooked in soy sauce adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal. The rich, savory taste of fried rice complements the lighter, fresher flavors of the chop suey, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a heartier dish.

3. Noodles

Noodles, such as lo mein, chow mein, or even simple stir-fried noodles, make a delicious pairing with Chicken Chop Suey. The tender noodles mixed with a bit of soy sauce or sesame oil create a satisfying and comforting dish. This pairing is perfect for those who prefer noodles over rice or want to enjoy a more diverse meal.

4. Spring Rolls

Spring Rolls, whether fresh or fried, are a great appetizer or side dish to accompany Chicken Chop Suey. The crispy exterior and flavorful filling of fried spring rolls add a delightful contrast in texture, while fresh spring rolls bring a light, refreshing element to the meal. Dip them in soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or peanut sauce for added flavor.

5. Egg Drop Soup

Egg Drop Soup is a traditional Chinese starter that pairs well with Chicken Chop Suey. The silky, savory broth with ribbons of tender egg offers a soothing and comforting beginning to the meal. The simplicity of the soup allows the more robust flavors of the chop suey to stand out.

Beverage Pairings

• Chinese Tea: A pot of Chinese tea, such as jasmine, green tea, or oolong, is an excellent choice to serve with Chicken Chop Suey. The light, aromatic flavors of the tea help cleanse the palate and complement the savory elements of the dish.
• Light Beer: A cold, crisp light beer pairs wonderfully with the stir-fried flavors of chop suey. The carbonation and mild bitterness balance the richness of the sauce and add a refreshing contrast.
• Sake: For a more unique pairing, try sake. The clean, slightly sweet flavor of sake enhances the umami elements of the dish while offering a smooth drinking experience.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Understanding the nutritional content of Chicken Chop Suey helps you enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet. Below is a breakdown of the key nutritional components and tips for making a healthier version.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Sugars: 3-4g
• Fat: 15-18g
• Saturated Fat: 2-3g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sodium: 600-800mg

Dietary Considerations

• High Protein Content: Chicken Chop Suey is a great source of lean protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-supporting meal. The combination of chicken and vegetables provides a balanced intake of essential nutrients.
• Rich in Vegetables: The variety of vegetables in this dish offers a good amount of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This contributes to better digestion, improved immune function, and overall health.
• Moderate Sodium Levels: While soy sauce and oyster sauce contribute to the dish’s flavor, they also add sodium. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount used if you’re monitoring your sodium intake.

Health Benefits

• Low in Carbs: Chicken Chop Suey is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially when served with a side of vegetables instead of rice or noodles. This makes it a good option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: Using a moderate amount of vegetable oil for stir-frying ensures the dish remains light, with heart-healthy unsaturated fats. For a healthier option, use olive oil or avocado oil.
• Antioxidant-Rich Vegetables: The vegetables used in Chicken Chop Suey are packed with antioxidants that help protect your body from oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting overall wellness.

Tips for a Healthier Version

• Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce to cut down on the sodium content. You can also dilute the sauces with a bit of water or broth without sacrificing flavor.
• Use Less Oil: Stir-frying requires only a small amount of oil. Consider using a non-stick wok or skillet to reduce the amount of oil needed, or opt for a cooking spray to further minimize fat content.
• Increase Vegetables: Add more vegetables to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish. Vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or zucchini can be great additions.
• Opt for Brown Rice: If serving with rice, choose brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. Brown rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice, making it a healthier option for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even with a straightforward recipe like Chicken Chop Suey, a few common mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here’s how to avoid these pitfalls and ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

1. Using Too Much Sauce

Overloading the dish with sauce can make it overly salty and cause the vegetables to lose their crispness. To avoid this, stick to the recipe’s suggested amounts, and add more sauce only if needed after tasting. Remember, the sauce should lightly coat the chicken and vegetables, not drown them.

2. Overcooking the Vegetables

Overcooking the vegetables can result in a mushy texture and loss of nutrients. Stir-frying at high heat for a short time helps the vegetables retain their vibrant color, crisp texture, and nutritional value. Aim for a tender-crisp texture, where the vegetables are cooked through but still have a bit of crunch.

3. Not Using High Enough Heat

Failing to use high heat when stir-frying can cause the ingredients to steam rather than fry, resulting in a lackluster dish. High heat ensures that the chicken and vegetables sear quickly, locking in their flavors and maintaining their textures. Make sure your wok or skillet is fully heated before adding the oil and ingredients.

4. Cutting Ingredients Unevenly

Inconsistent cutting of ingredients can lead to uneven cooking, where some pieces are overcooked while others are undercooked. To avoid this, take the time to cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures that everything cooks at the same rate, resulting in a dish that’s perfectly balanced in texture and flavor.

5. Neglecting the Cornstarch Slurry

Skipping the cornstarch slurry can result in a thin, runny sauce that doesn’t adhere well to the ingredients. The cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce, giving it a glossy finish and ensuring it clings to the chicken and vegetables. Be sure to add it gradually while stirring, and allow the sauce to cook for a minute or two until it reaches the desired consistency.

Storage Tips, Notes, and Reheating

Storing and reheating Chicken Chop Suey properly ensures that you can enjoy the leftovers just as much as the freshly prepared dish. Here’s how to keep your stir-fry fresh and flavorful:

1. Storing Leftover Chicken Chop Suey

If you have leftovers, it’s important to store them correctly to maintain the dish’s quality.

• Refrigeration: Allow the Chicken Chop Suey to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: While Chicken Chop Suey is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze it for longer storage. Place the cooled chop suey in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

2. Reheating Chicken Chop Suey

Reheating Chicken Chop Suey correctly is key to retaining its flavor and texture.

a. Reheating on the Stovetop

• Method: The best way to reheat Chicken Chop Suey is on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the leftovers and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.
• Tip: If the sauce has thickened too much in the refrigerator, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up while reheating.

b. Reheating in the Microwave

• Method: Place the Chicken Chop Suey in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the dish is heated through.
• Tip: Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and the vegetables to lose their crispness.

3. Serving Suggestions for Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Chop Suey can be enjoyed in several creative ways:

• With Noodles: Reheat the chop suey and toss it with cooked noodles for a quick and delicious stir-fry noodle dish.
• In a Wrap: Use the leftover chop suey as a filling for a wrap or tortilla. Add some fresh greens or a drizzle of hoisin sauce for extra flavor.
• On a Salad: Serve the reheated chop suey over a bed of mixed greens for a hearty and flavorful salad.

4. Notes on Freezing and Thawing

• Freezing Tips: When freezing Chicken Chop Suey, keep in mind that some vegetables (like bean sprouts) may lose their crispness after thawing. If this is a concern, you can add fresh vegetables to the dish after reheating.
• Thawing: To thaw frozen Chicken Chop Suey, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to eat it. Once thawed, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave as described above.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about Chicken Chop Suey that can help you troubleshoot issues and adapt the recipe to your needs.

1. Can I make Chicken Chop Suey vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of Chicken Chop Suey by substituting the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a variety of mushrooms. Ensure that you use a vegetarian oyster sauce (made from mushrooms) or omit it altogether.

2. What if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, especially after adding the cornstarch slurry, simply add a little more chicken broth or water to thin it out. Stir well and continue cooking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftovers. Add the cooked chicken towards the end of the stir-frying process, just to heat it through without overcooking.

4. How can I add more flavor to the dish?

To add more flavor to Chicken Chop Suey, consider the following options:

• Add garlic and ginger: Sauté minced garlic and ginger in the oil before adding the chicken. These aromatics will enhance the overall flavor.
• Use a splash of rice wine or Shaoxing wine: Add a tablespoon of rice wine or Shaoxing wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• Increase the umami: Adding a small amount of fish sauce or a dash of soy sauce at the end can boost the umami flavor.

5. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While marinating the chicken isn’t strictly necessary, it helps infuse the meat with more flavor and tenderize it, especially if you’re using chicken breasts. A quick 15-minute marinade in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch is sufficient.

6. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh ones. However, be sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the stir-fry to avoid diluting the sauce.

7. What can I do if the dish is too salty?

If your Chicken Chop Suey turns out too salty, try these solutions:

• Dilute the sauce: Add a bit more water or chicken broth to dilute the saltiness.
• Add sugar: A small pinch of sugar can help balance the saltiness.
• Serve with plain rice: Serving the dish with plain, unsalted rice can help balance the overall saltiness of the meal.

8. How do I prevent the vegetables from getting soggy?

To keep the vegetables crisp, make sure to stir-fry them over high heat for a short time. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the vegetables to steam rather than fry.

Conclusion

Chicken Chop Suey is a delightful dish that perfectly combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce in a quick and easy stir-fry. Its versatility makes it a go-to meal for busy weeknights, and its rich flavors make it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings.

Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, Chicken Chop Suey is sure to satisfy. With the right preparation, storage, and reheating techniques, you can enjoy this classic Chinese-American dish anytime.

We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to try making Chicken Chop Suey in your own kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, share the recipe with friends and family, and explore more delicious Chinese-inspired dishes. Happy cooking!

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