Top 10 Best Chinese Stir-Fry Recipes Easy & Delicious

Looking to master the art of stir-frying? These 10 easy and delicious Chinese recipes are your ticket to flavorful weeknight meals. From kung pao chicken to beef and broccoli, these dishes are packed with flavor. Enjoy a quick and satisfying Chinese meal at home.

Introduction to Chinese Stir-Fry Cuisine and Quick Dinner Ideas

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Ever find yourself craving that authentic Chinese takeout flavor but dreading the delivery fees and questionable ingredients? Well, get ready to ditch the takeout menu because we're diving headfirst into the wonderful world of Chinese stir-fries! Stir-frying is seriously one of the quickest and easiest ways to get a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal on the table. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up those veggies wilting in the fridge. Think of it as culinary magic – transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors in just minutes.

Essential Stir-Fry Ingredients and Chinese Cooking Techniques

Before we get cooking, let's talk about the basics. A great stir-fry starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients. We're talking vibrant veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and mushrooms. For protein, chicken, beef, shrimp, and tofu are all fantastic options. And don't forget the sauces! Soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cornstarch are the building blocks of amazing stir-fry flavors.

Now, for the technique. High heat is key! You want your wok or skillet screaming hot so the ingredients sear quickly, locking in their flavor and creating that signature "wok hei" – that slightly smoky, charred flavor that's so addictive. Also, make sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. This means chopping your veggies, marinating your protein, and having all your sauces measured out and ready to go. Trust me, this makes the whole process so much smoother.

Recipe 1 Kung Pao Chicken A Classic Chinese Stir-Fry

First up is a true classic: Kung Pao Chicken. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, with tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and fiery chili peppers. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice wine or dry sherry
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup peanuts, roasted
• 4-5 dried red chili peppers, cut into pieces
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, rice wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.
3. Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add chicken and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove chicken from the wok and set aside.
4. Add aromatics: Add dried chili peppers, ginger, and garlic to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Combine: Return chicken to the wok. Add the sauce and peanuts. Stir-fry until the sauce has thickened and everything is well combined.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice.

Recipe 2 Beef and Broccoli A Family Favorite Stir-Fry Dish

Next, we have another all-time favorite: Beef and Broccoli. This dish is simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The tender beef and crisp-tender broccoli are coated in a delicious savory sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 lb broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine beef, soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are crisp-tender.
3. Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add beef and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove beef from the wok and set aside.
4. Add aromatics: Add garlic to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Combine: Add beef broth, oyster sauce, and brown sugar to the wok. Bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and beef to the wok. Stir-fry until the sauce has thickened and everything is well combined.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice.

Recipe 3 Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables A Healthy and Delicious Option

For a lighter option, try this Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables. This dish is packed with protein and nutrients, and it's incredibly versatile. You can use any combination of vegetables you like!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup snow peas
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

Instructions:

1. Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp, soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add shrimp and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove shrimp from the wok and set aside.
3. Add aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add vegetables: Add bell peppers, onion, and snow peas to the wok and stir-fry until they are crisp-tender.
5. Combine: Add chicken broth and oyster sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer. Add shrimp to the wok. Stir-fry until the sauce has thickened and everything is well combined.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Recipe 4 Tofu Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce A Vegetarian Delight

Vegetarians, rejoice! This Tofu Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce is a delicious and satisfying meat-free option. The crispy tofu is coated in a creamy and flavorful peanut sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the tofu: Toss tofu with soy sauce and cornstarch.
2. Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add tofu and stir-fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu from the wok and set aside.
3. Add vegetables: Add bell peppers, onion, and broccoli to the wok and stir-fry until they are crisp-tender.
4. Prepare the peanut sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and water until smooth.
5. Combine: Add the peanut sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer. Add tofu to the wok. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Recipe 5 General Tso's Chicken A Sweet and Tangy Stir-Fry

Craving something sweet and tangy? General Tso's Chicken is the answer! This dish features crispy fried chicken coated in a sticky and flavorful sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice wine or dry sherry
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Dried red chili peppers, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Toss chicken with cornstarch.
2. Fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove chicken from the oil and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and chicken broth.
4. Stir-fry: Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add ginger and garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add dried red chili peppers, if using.
5. Combine: Add the sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Add chicken to the wok and toss to coat.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Recipe 6 Chicken and Cashew Stir-Fry A Nutty and Savory Delight

This Chicken and Cashew Stir-Fry is a fantastic combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and crisp-tender vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce. The cashews add a delightful nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup water chestnuts, sliced
• 1 cup cashews, roasted
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add chicken and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove chicken from the wok and set aside.
3. Add aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add vegetables: Add bell peppers, onion, and water chestnuts to the wok and stir-fry until they are crisp-tender.
5. Combine: Add chicken broth and oyster sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer. Add chicken and cashews to the wok. Stir-fry until the sauce has thickened and everything is well combined.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice.

Recipe 7 Mongolian Beef A Sweet and Savory Stir-Fry with Crispy Noodles

Mongolian Beef is a sweet and savory stir-fry that's typically served over crispy fried noodles. The thinly sliced beef is coated in a rich and flavorful sauce with a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish
• Crispy fried noodles, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef: Toss beef with soy sauce and cornstarch.
2. Fry the beef: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry beef in batches until crispy. Remove beef from the oil and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch.
4. Stir-fry: Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Combine: Add the sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Add beef to the wok and toss to coat.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over crispy fried noodles, garnished with green onions.

Recipe 8 Vegetable Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce A Simple and Healthy Option

This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce is a simple and healthy option that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal. You can use any combination of your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Add vegetables: Add broccoli, bell peppers, onion, snap peas, and mushrooms to the wok and stir-fry until they are crisp-tender.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together vegetable broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
4. Combine: Add the sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer. Stir-fry until the sauce has thickened and everything is well combined.
5. Serve: Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Recipe 9 Sweet and Sour Chicken A Classic Takeout Favorite

Bring the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout restaurant home with this Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe! Crispy chicken pieces are coated in a vibrant and tangy sweet and sour sauce with pineapple and bell peppers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Toss chicken with cornstarch.
2. Fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove chicken from the oil and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together sugar, ketchup, white vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water.
4. Stir-fry: Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add bell peppers and pineapple and stir-fry for a few minutes until slightly softened.
5. Combine: Add the sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Add chicken to the wok and toss to coat.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice.

Recipe 10 Sesame Chicken A Crispy and Flavorful Stir-Fry with Sesame Seeds

Sesame Chicken is a crispy and flavorful stir-fry that's coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce. The sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Toss chicken with cornstarch.
2. Fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove chicken from the oil and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water.
4. Stir-fry: Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
5. Combine: Add the sauce to the wok. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Add chicken to the wok and toss to coat.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice, garnished with sesame seeds.

Recommended Woks for Authentic Stir-Fry Cooking

To truly elevate your stir-fry game, investing in a good wok is essential. Here are a few recommendations:

• Joyce Chen 22-0078 Classic Series Carbon Steel Wok Set: This is a great all-around wok for beginners. It's made of carbon steel, which heats up quickly and evenly, and it comes with a bamboo spatula and wok ring. It typically sells for around $50. Ideal for electric or gas stoves.
• Craft Wok Traditional Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Wok: For a more authentic experience, this hand-hammered wok is a fantastic choice. It's made of heavy-gauge carbon steel and is designed to distribute heat evenly. Requires seasoning. Around $80. Best for gas stoves due to its rounded bottom.
• Breville EW30XL Electric Wok: If you have an electric stove or prefer a non-stick surface, this electric wok is a great option. It features adjustable temperature controls and a large cooking surface. Easy to clean. Around $150.

Wok Comparison Table

Essential Stir-Fry Utensils and Cooking Equipment

Beyond the wok, a few other tools can make your stir-frying experience even better:

• Wok Spatula: A long-handled spatula with a curved edge is perfect for scooping and flipping ingredients in the wok.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is essential for prepping your vegetables and protein.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients much easier and safer.
• Bowls: Having a few bowls on hand for prepping ingredients and sauces is a must.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chinese Stir-Fry Every Time

Here are a few extra tips to help you master the art of stir-frying:

• Don't overcrowd the wok: Stir-fry in batches to avoid lowering the temperature of the wok.
• Use high heat: This is key to getting that signature "wok hei" flavor.
• Keep the ingredients moving: Stir-fry constantly to prevent burning.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning: Add more soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sugar to taste.
• Serve immediately: Stir-fries are best served hot and fresh.

Enjoy Your Homemade Chinese Stir-Fry Adventure

So there you have it! Ten delicious and easy Chinese stir-fry recipes to get you started on your culinary adventure. With a little practice, you'll be whipping up restaurant-quality stir-fries in no time. Happy cooking!