As the sun begins to set and the day winds down, there’s something invigorating about the idea of whipping up a delicious meal in the kitchen. Picture this: the vibrant colors of bell peppers and the inviting sweetness of plums merge into a tantalizing stir-fry, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. That’s the magic of this Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry! I discovered this gem when I was looking for a way to rescue a long-forgotten bag of plums in my fridge, and I couldn’t be happier with the delightful surprise it became.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this dish transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary feast that’s sure to impress. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its ease but also in the glossy, sticky sauce that envelops each juicy bite, combining savory and sweet flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish is a vibrant answer to those weekday meal dilemmas that often lead to a fast-food fix. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this colorful culinary adventure!
Why is Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The sweet plums harmonize beautifully with zesty bell peppers and savory chicken.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for those who want homemade goodness without the hassle.
Eye-catching presentation: The vibrant colors of this stir fry will make your dinner table sing, impressing everyone you serve it to.
Versatile ingredients: Feel free to adapt the vegetables based on what you have on hand, making this recipe a perfect solution for using up your fridge staples.
Comfort in every bite: With its glossy, sticky sauce, each mouthful of this dish is a delightful adventure—one that will leave you craving seconds!
Don’t forget to pair it with some fluffy rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken breast fillets – Use about 520g for juicy, tender chunks that soak in the flavors.
- Cornflour – This creates a light coating that gives the chicken the perfect crunch.
- Egg – Helps bind the cornflour and flour together for an even coating.
- Plain flour – Adds structure to the coating, giving it a delightful crispiness.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Pepper – Adds a gentle kick to the chicken.
- Garlic salt – Infuses a savory depth that perfectly complements the dish.
- Paprika – Offers a mild smokiness, enhancing the overall taste profile.
For the Stir Fry
- Oil – Choose a neutral oil for frying; it helps the chicken get golden without overpowering other flavors.
- Plums – Their sweet flavor is the star of the show, providing a luscious sauce.
- Red bell pepper – Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch.
- Green bell pepper – Offers a slightly tangy crunch to balance the sweetness.
- Yellow bell pepper – Contributes an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Garlic – Freshly minced to enhance the dish’s aromatic flavors.
For the Sticky Sauce
- Tomato puree – Provides a rich base for the sauce, balancing the sweet and savory elements.
- Chinese rice vinegar – Adds a hint of acidity; feel free to substitute with white wine vinegar if needed.
- Light brown sugar – Enhances the sweetness and gives that characteristic sticky texture.
- Sweet chilli sauce – Delivers a perfect blend of sweetness and heat.
- Dark soy sauce – Adds depth and a beautiful color to the dish.
- Chili flakes – For those who like an extra kick of heat.
- Pineapple juice – Infuses a tropical sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the plums.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a scrumptious Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry that will have your family begging for more!
How to Make Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry
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Combine ingredients for the coating in a bowl. Mix the cornflour, egg, plain flour, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and paprika until well blended. This mixture will create a crispy crust for the chicken.
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Coat the chicken pieces. Ensure each chunk is evenly covered in the flour mixture, giving them a nice, crispy texture. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch!
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Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, typically around 6-8 minutes.
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Add the sliced plums and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften slightly. Their colors should brighten and look tantalizing!
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Incorporate minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, stirring continuously. This step will enhance the stir-fry with a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Mix the sticky sauce in a separate bowl. Combine tomato puree, rice vinegar, light brown sugar, sweet chilli sauce, dark soy sauce, chili flakes, and pineapple juice until smooth.
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Pour the sticky sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the pan. Cook everything together on medium heat until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Optional: Serve over fluffy rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dish with these creative ideas!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) for a plant-based option.
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Spicy Twist: Introduce diced jalapeños or sriracha for an extra kick. The heat complements the sweetness beautifully, making every bite a thrill.
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Vegetable Boost: Swap in your favorite vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition. Their vibrant colors will brighten your plate even more!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to coat the chicken and cornstarch for a flavorful alternative if you’re avoiding gluten. This will keep the crispiness intact.
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Honey-Glazed: Replace light brown sugar with honey for a richer sweetness in the sauce. The honey will infuse a lovely floral note that enhances the plums perfectly.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of orange juice to the sticky sauce for a refreshing citrusy flavor. This twist elevates the dish with a bright tang that balances the richness.
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Protein Variety: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a seafood or vegetarian option. Each will bring its unique texture and flavor, expanding the dish’s appeal.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end of cooking for a fragrant finish. Their aromatic essence will elevate this dish, creating a gourmet experience.
Expert Tips for Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry
• Preparation Matters: Always have your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth stir-frying process without rushed or missed steps.
• Avoid Soggy Chicken: Make sure to shake off excess flour after coating the chicken. This prevents sogginess and helps achieve that desired crispy texture.
• Heat Control: Keep the pan hot but not smoking for the chicken to cook evenly without burning. A medium-high heat allows for the perfect golden crust.
• Vegetable Crunch: Don’t overcook the bell peppers; a few minutes of stir-frying should suffice. They should retain some crunch to complement the tender chicken.
• Sticky Sauce Balance: For a sweeter sauce, add a bit more brown sugar. For a spicier kick, increase the chili flakes. Adjust to your taste but remember to keep the sauce balanced!
With these tips in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry that your family will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the coating remains crispy when cooked. Additionally, you can slice the plums and bell peppers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to mingle beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply pan-fry the chicken and add the prepped vegetables along with the sticky sauce, cooking until everything is heated through. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dish sealed to retain its delicious flavors and minimize moisture loss.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s completely cool before sealing to prevent ice crystals forming.
Reheating: Thaw frozen stir fry in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety and freshness.
What to Serve with Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry?
Imagine a cozy dinner where vibrant dishes dance on your plate, each complementing the next, creating a feast you won’t forget.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice absorbs the sticky sauce beautifully, adding a soft texture to every bite.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Filled with fresh vegetables, these crunchy rolls provide a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and sweet sauce.
- Sautéed Bok Choy: The slightly bitter greens balance the rich flavors, offering a fresh, green note that elevates the dish.
- Honey Garlic Broccoli: Sweet yet savory, the honey garlic glaze contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the stir fry, making it a perfect pairing.
- Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-infused rice adds an exotic twist that harmonizes wonderfully with the plums and sauce.
- Chili Lime Quinoa: Nutty quinoa mixed with zesty lime complements the dish’s sweetness, adding a satisfying crunch and protein boost.
- Mango Salad: This refreshing salad introduces a bright, fruity note that cuts through the richness and enhances the overall experience.
- Cold Beer: A light lager or pale ale can refresh your palate and balance the sweetness of the dish with its crisp finish.
Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe plums for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for plums that are slightly soft to the touch and have a deep, rich color. If they have some small blemishes or even a few dark spots, they’re still good to use as long as they’re not mushy. Ripe plums will add that beautiful sweetness to your stir fry!
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How should I store leftovers of Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep the flavors locked in and prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to eat, just give it a gentle reheat on the stove, or you can microwave it for a quick meal.
Can I freeze Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry?
You certainly can! To freeze, let your stir fry cool completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on medium heat. I like to add a splash of water to help bring back some moisture!
What should I do if my chicken turns out soggy?
Oh no, we definitely want it to be crispy! If your chicken ends up soggy, it likely means there was too much moisture when frying. To troubleshoot this, ensure you shake off the excess flour before cooking and keep the oil hot enough. If it still does, after cooking, pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes to crisp it up.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Great question! This Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry contains chicken and gluten from the flour, so it’s not suitable for those with gluten intolerance. If you need a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use a gluten-free soy sauce. Always check your other ingredients and sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
Can I use other vegetables in the stir fry?
The more the merrier! Feel free to mix in vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or even carrots. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since firmer veggies may take a bit longer to cook. This allows you to utilize what you have on hand, making it a versatile recipe full of flavor!
Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
Sweet & Spicy Chinese Plum Chicken Stir Fry Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine ingredients for the coating in a bowl. Mix the cornflour, egg, plain flour, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and paprika until well blended.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring each chunk is evenly covered.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown, around 6-8 minutes.
- Add the sliced plums and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften.
- Incorporate minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring continuously.
- Mix the sticky sauce in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour the sticky sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the pan. Cook on medium heat until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
