There’s something truly delightful about a dish that brings a burst of flavor, color, and warmth to the table. My recent culinary adventure introduced me to the vibrant world of a Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry. One evening, as I craved something fresh yet comforting, I scoured my pantry and stumbled upon ripe mangoes. It struck me—a sweet and savory stir-fry could elevate my weeknight dinner from routine to exceptional!
This dish is perfect for anyone wanting a break from bland takeout or fast food. With juicy chicken pieces coated in a crispy crust, mixed with the sweetness of ripe mangoes and a medley of colorful vegetables, it’s a feast that’s not just easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as you combine vibrant ingredients to create a meal that will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this enticing recipe that celebrates the best of homemade cooking!
Why Try Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry?
Easy to Prepare: This dish can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Bursting with Flavor: The harmonious balance of savory and sweet flavors from the chicken and ripe mango gives a truly delightful taste experience.
Crispy & Juicy: Each bite features golden-brown, crispy chicken paired with tender vegetables, ensuring a perfect textural contrast.
Healthier Alternative: Ditch the takeout and enjoy a wholesome meal packed with nutrients using fresh ingredients tailored to your taste.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this colorful and delicious dish, making it a sure win for family dinners!
Instant Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with this vibrant stir fry that’s not only attractive but also bursting with tantalizing flavors.
Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry Ingredients
Discover the key components for making a delightful Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry that will transform your dinner!
For the Chicken
• Chicken breasts or thighs – 1 pound, skinless and boneless for tender bites.
• Cornstarch – ¼ cup, ensures a crispy coating when fried.
• All-purpose flour – ¼ cup, adds extra crunch to the chicken’s exterior.
• Ginger garlic paste – 1 teaspoon, infuses rich flavor into the dish.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon, to season the chicken perfectly.
• Ground black pepper – ¼ teaspoon, adds a hint of warmth.
• Neutral flavored oil – for frying; can use oils like canola or vegetable for a light taste.
For the Stir Fry
• Cooking oil – 3 tablespoons for sautéing, prefer higher smoke point oils for best results.
• Garlic – 2 tablespoons, chopped for aromatic goodness.
• Green chilies – 2-3, chopped; adjust to your spice preference.
• Onion – 1 large, cut into 1-inch cubes for crunch and sweetness.
• Bell peppers – 1 cup, cubed (1-inch); choose colorful varieties for an eye-catching presentation.
For the Sauce
• Dark soy sauce – 2 tablespoons, for depth of flavor and rich color.
• Sweet chili sauce – 4 tablespoons; provides a delightful sweetness.
• Red chili paste – 2 tablespoons, enhances heat for a balanced flavor profile.
• Tomato ketchup – 2 tablespoons, adds tangy sweetness to the mix.
• Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon, brightens the dish with acidity.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon (or to taste), for seasoning the sauce.
• Ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon, to round out the flavor.
For the Thickening Agent
• Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce beautifully.
• Water – 1 cup, combined with cornstarch for a smooth consistency.
For the Finishing Touch
• Ripe mangoes – 1 cup, peeled and cubed; the star ingredient that brings sweetness to the dish.
• Chopped spring onion greens – for garnish, adding a fresh burst of color and flavor.
How to Make Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry
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Prepare the Chicken: Wash the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry using paper towels. Cut it into small, bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
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Mix the Coating: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, ginger garlic paste, salt, and black pepper powder. Stir until everything is well blended.
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Coat the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated. This ensures a crispy outer layer when cooked.
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Heat the Oil for Frying: In a pan, heat a generous amount of oil over high heat. Once hot, drop half of the chicken pieces carefully into the oil. Fry until they are crisp and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
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Fry Remaining Chicken: Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces, ensuring they are also crispy and golden. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a wok, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over high heat. Once hot, add chopped garlic and green chilies. Stir-fry for about 3-4 seconds until fragrant.
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Add Vegetables: Toss in the onion and bell peppers to the wok, cooking them for about 1 minute until slightly softened but still crunchy.
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Create the Sauce: Add dark soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, red chili paste, tomato ketchup, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the vegetables. Mix everything together to combine all the flavors.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 cup of water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the wok, stirring continuously. Cook for about a minute until the sauce thickens; add more water if needed for desired consistency.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the crispy fried chicken and cubed mango pieces into the sauce, mixing until everything is well combined and heated through.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped spring onion greens on top for a fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy a delightful meal!
Optional: Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry
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Chicken Dryness: Ensure the chicken is patted dry before coating. Excess moisture can prevent it from getting crispy while frying.
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Heat Management: Keep the oil hot when frying chicken. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become soggy.
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Colorful Veggies: Use a mix of colored bell peppers for a vibrant appearance. This not only looks appealing but also adds nutritional value.
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Controlling Heat: Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice tolerance. You can start with one and add more if you like it hot!
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Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency for the Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve this stir fry over steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delightful flavors of the sauce.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat it in a skillet instead of the microwave. Add a splash of water to prevent sticking if needed.
Note: The flavor of the Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry may slightly change after freezing, but it will still be delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry components are ideal for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can coat the chicken in the flour mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it fresh and ready to fry. Vegetables can also be chopped and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing their crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy your stir fry, simply fry the chicken, sauté the aromatics, and combine everything in the wok according to the original recipe instructions. This way, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
What to Serve with Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry?
Elevate your meal beyond the delightful stir-fry with these perfect pairings that tantalize the senses.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice acts as a soothing counterpoint to the vibrant flavors, balancing the dish beautifully.
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Steamed Broccoli: The tender yet crisp texture adds a nutritious green element, enhancing the stir-fry’s visual appeal and flavor profile.
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Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame dressing, these noodles provide a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweet and savory notes of the stir fry.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights filled with fresh veggies are the perfect finger food that complements the dish’s bold flavors.
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Mango-Pineapple Salsa: Bright, zesty, and fresh, this salsa echoes the sweetness of the mango in your stir fry, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers in a tangy dressing add a refreshing crunch and lightness that balances the richness of the chicken stir-fry.
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Sweet Thai Iced Tea: A creamy beverage with a hint of spice, it cools the palate and enhances the meal’s delightful sweetness.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: This dessert offers a comforting finish, echoing the tropical mango notes while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish with different ingredients and flavors!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute any sauces that may contain dairy with coconut aminos for a dairy-free option.
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Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a splash of Sriracha for an extra kick of heat, perfect for heat lovers!
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Vegetable Medley: Incorporate snap peas, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrition and crunch, bringing more colors to your stir fry.
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Pineapple Twist: Replace mango with fresh pineapple for a tangy and refreshing alternative, creating a delightful tropical vibe.
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Protein Swap: For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for crispy tofu or tempeh, which absorbs flavors wonderfully and offers a hearty bite.
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Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a splash of fresh lime juice before serving, which brightens the dish beautifully.
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Noodle Addition: Serve over a bed of rice noodles or toss them directly into the wok for a satisfying noodle stir-fry experience.
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Herb Boost: Top with fresh cilantro or Thai basil right before serving to elevate the flavors and provide a fresh aroma.
Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry, both skinless boneless chicken breasts and thighs work wonderfully. Chicken thighs tend to remain juicier and more flavorful, while breasts offer a leaner option. Choose according to your preference!
How do I select ripe mangoes for this dish?
Very! When selecting mangoes, look for those that are slightly soft to the touch and emit a sweet aroma near the stem. Avoid ones with dark spots all over, as this indicates overripeness. If they’re slightly firm, that’s okay; they’ll ripen on your countertop within a few days.
How should I store leftovers of the stir fry?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where they will keep for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results. If you notice the chicken might dry out, add a splash of water to help maintain moisture.
Can I freeze this stir fry?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry for up to 2 months. To do this, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet to preserve the texture.
What if my sauce is too thick?
I understand! If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t despair. Simply add water, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring, until you reach your desired consistency. This should help smooth out the sauce, making it just right for your stir fry.
Any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re concerned about allergies, it’s good to note that this dish contains gluten from soy sauce and flour. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free soy sauce and use cornstarch for thickening. Additionally, avoid using green chilies if serving young children or those sensitive to spice.
Satisfying Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry using paper towels. Cut it into small, bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, ginger garlic paste, salt, and black pepper powder. Stir until well blended.
- Add the cubed chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- In a pan, heat a generous amount of oil over high heat. Once hot, drop half of the chicken pieces carefully into the oil. Fry until crisp and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces, ensuring they are also crispy and golden. Drain and set aside.
- In a wok, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over high heat. Add chopped garlic and green chilies. Stir-fry for about 3-4 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 1 minute until slightly softened but still crunchy.
- Add dark soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, red chili paste, tomato ketchup, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the vegetables. Mix everything together.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 cup of water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the wok, stirring continuously. Cook for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens.
- Gently fold the crispy fried chicken and cubed mango pieces into the sauce, mixing until well combined and heated through.
- Sprinkle chopped spring onion greens on top for a fresh finish. Serve immediately.