Crispy Almond Chicken Stir-Fry
This delightful Crispy Almond Chicken Stir-Fry combines tender chicken pieces with crunchy almonds, delivering a combination of flavors and textures that your family will love. It's incredibly simple to prepare—just mix everything in a bag, shake it up, and stir-fry! This dish is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight meal when served with fried rice and a side of fresh vegetables. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe is a cherished contribution from my aunt to our family cookbook.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless chicken breasts
2 (cut into bite-sized pieces)
flour
2 tablespoons (none)
almonds
1/4 cup (chopped)
chicken bouillon powder
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large resealable plastic bag or a covered container, combine the chopped chicken breasts, flour, chopped almonds, chicken bouillon powder, salt, and pepper.
2
Seal the bag/container tightly and shake vigorously until the chicken is evenly coated with the flour and seasoning mixture.
3
Heat a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of oil (such as vegetable or peanut oil) and heat until it shimmers but is not smoking.
4
Add the coated chicken mixture to the hot pan. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the almonds are golden and crispy.
5
Serve the stir-fried chicken immediately over fried rice and with your choice of sautéed vegetables.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Almond Chicken Stir-Fry?
It is a quick and simple dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in almonds and spices, stir-fried until golden and crispy.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients are chicken breasts, flour, chopped almonds, chicken bouillon powder, salt, and pepper.
How should the chicken be prepared?
The boneless chicken breasts should be cut into bite-sized pieces before coating.
What is the easiest way to coat the chicken?
Place the chicken and coating ingredients in a large resealable plastic bag or covered container and shake vigorously.
What type of almonds should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of chopped almonds to ensure they stick to the chicken and provide crunch.
What kind of pan is best for this recipe?
A frying pan or a wok is ideal for stir-frying the chicken effectively.
What temperature should the pan be heated to?
The pan should be heated over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers but does not smoke.
Which oils are recommended for stir-frying?
Vegetable oil or peanut oil are good choices due to their high smoke points.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
The chicken typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes to cook through when stir-fried.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius).
How do I know when the almonds are done?
The almonds should be golden brown and crispy by the time the chicken is fully cooked.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for a juicier texture.
What should I serve with this stir-fry?
It is best served immediately over fried rice with a side of fresh or sautéed vegetables.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy weeknight?
Yes, the 'shake and stir-fry' method makes it a fantastic option for quick evening meals.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your bouillon powder is gluten-free.
How much flour is used in the coating?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of flour.
What role does chicken bouillon powder play?
It provides a concentrated savory and salty flavor to the chicken coating.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can double the ingredients; just ensure you cook in batches if your pan is not large enough.
Where did this recipe come from?
This is a cherished family recipe contributed by the author's aunt.
How do I prepare the almonds?
The almonds should be finely chopped so they adhere well to the chicken pieces.
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
While it changes the flavor profile, you could try chopped cashews or peanuts for a similar crunch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I prep this in advance?
You can chop the chicken and almonds ahead of time, but it is best to coat and fry just before serving for maximum crispiness.
Is this an Asian-inspired dish?
Yes, the stir-fry technique and flavor profile are inspired by Asian cuisine.
What if I do not have a resealable bag?
A large bowl with a tight-fitting lid will work just as well for coating the chicken.
Can I add vegetables directly into the pan?
You can, but it is recommended to sauté them separately or add them at the end to ensure the chicken stays crispy.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is seasoned only with salt and pepper, making it very family-friendly.
How much almond is required per serving?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup total, which is approximately 2 tablespoons per serving.
How quickly should I serve the dish?
It should be served immediately to enjoy the contrast of the tender chicken and the crispy almond coating.