Chicken Stir-Fry (or Frango Xadrez) is an irresistible recipe, perfect for shaking up your weeknight menu with an Asian-inspired twist. Made with juicy bite-sized chicken, a savory soy sauce-based glaze, and vibrant vegetables, this dish wins you over with its simplicity and deep flavor. It strikes the perfect balance between crunch, lightness, and a bold seasoning. It’s a practical, well-balanced meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests with its satisfying textures. Ready to learn the secrets behind this Asian-fusion classic?
Ingredients:
- 1.1 lbs (500g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or neutral oil
- 1 large onion, cut into large chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, cubed
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cubed
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- ⅓ cup (approx. 50g) dry roasted, unsalted peanuts
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
How to make Chicken Stir-Fry:
- Season the chicken cubes with salt and black pepper, being careful not to over-salt, as the soy sauce will add plenty of saltiness later.
- Toss the chicken with the cornstarch until every piece is evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the oil and sear the chicken in batches until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add a splash of oil, the onion, and the bell peppers. Stir-fry quickly over high heat to keep the vegetables crisp.
- Mix the soy sauce and water, then pour it into the pan. Add the seared chicken back in and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with the roasted peanuts and chopped green onions. Serve hot.
Pro Tips:
- The secret to juicy chicken: The cornstarch coating creates a protective layer that keeps the chicken moist. Also, be sure to only simmer the chicken in the sauce for 4–5 minutes; overcooking will dry it out.
- Vibrant colors: Use a mix of bell peppers for a visually stunning dish. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Customize the heat: If you love spice, add freshly grated ginger or extra red pepper flakes. For a milder version, stick to just black pepper.
- Want more sauce?: If you prefer a saucier stir-fry, simply double the amount of soy sauce and water.
Prep time:
Approximately 30 minutes.
Servings:
Serves 4.
Fun Facts:
This chicken stir-fry is a popular Brazilian adaptation of the classic Chinese “Kung Pao Chicken,” originating from the Sichuan province. While the traditional dish is quite spicy and uses specific regional ingredients, the Brazilian version simplifies the profile, focusing on soy sauce for a milder, crowd-pleasing flavor.
Using cornstarch is a hallmark of authentic Chinese stir-fry technique, known as “velveting.” It acts as a barrier that locks in juices during high-heat cooking. This technique became widely popular in Brazil thanks to the influence of local Asian-fusion restaurants.
Interestingly, in Chinese culture, peanuts are a symbol of prosperity and good luck. They are often featured in celebratory dishes, adding that signature crunch that makes this recipe so memorable.
This recipe is a perfect example of how global flavors evolve. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or looking to refresh your Sunday meal routine, this chicken stir-fry is a delicious, reliable win.