What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create an authentic Japanese chicken stir fry that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Tokyo.
- Add the marinated chicken to the hot wok and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Heat the wok or skillet over high heat to create a nice sear on the chicken.
Introduction:
Japanese cuisine is renowned for its delicate flavors and vibrant ingredients. The Japanese chicken stir fry recipe, also known as Tori Teriyaki, is a perfect example of this culinary artistry. Packed with umami-rich flavors and tender chicken, this dish is a delight for both the palate and the eyes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create an authentic Japanese chicken stir fry that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Tokyo.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sake
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup chopped water chestnuts
- 1/4 cup chopped bamboo shoots
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, sake, mirin, and brown sugar. Set aside.
3. Heat the Wok:
- Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan.
4. Stir-Fry the Chicken:
- Add the marinated chicken to the hot wok and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, carrots, celery, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and bamboo shoots to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Add the Ginger and Garlic:
- Add the grated ginger and minced garlic to the wok and stir-fry for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
7. Return the Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the wok along with the reserved stir-fry sauce. Stir well to combine.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the stir-fry with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional). Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for a Perfect Japanese Chicken Stir Fry:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Heat the wok or skillet over high heat to create a nice sear on the chicken.
- Stir-fry the chicken and vegetables in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should retain a slight crunch.
- Add the sauce just before serving to prevent the chicken and vegetables from becoming soggy.
- Serve the stir-fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra tofu or tempeh.
- Add other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy.
- Use different types of sauce, such as hoisin sauce or oyster sauce.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes or sesame seeds for an extra kick.
Storage:
- Leftover Japanese chicken stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm the stir-fry over medium heat in a wok or skillet until heated through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Japanese chicken stir fry over steamed rice or noodles.
- Accompany it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Garnish with a wedge of lemon or lime for a pop of citrus flavor.
Beyond the Ordinary: Elevate Your Japanese Chicken Stir Fry:
- Experiment with different types of chicken, such as dark meat or ground chicken.
- Add a teaspoon of sesame oil to the stir-fry for an extra layer of flavor.
- Use a variety of sauces to create unique flavor combinations.
- Top the stir-fry with a fried egg for a protein-packed meal.
- Serve the stir-fry in lettuce wraps for a healthier and low-carb option.
Wrap-Up:
The Japanese chicken stir fry recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the best of Eastern and Western flavors. With its tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and umami-rich sauce, it’s a culinary delight that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. So gather your ingredients, heat up your wok, and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Japanese cuisine.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
Q2: What kind of vegetables can I add to the stir-fry?
A2: You can add a variety of vegetables to the stir-fry, such as broccoli, snap peas, bok choy, carrots, celery, and mushrooms.
Q3: Can I make the stir-fry sauce ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can make the stir-fry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
