If you are craving a dish that bursts with harmony between sweet and savory, look no further than this Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe. It perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken with the tropical warmth of ripe mango, enhanced by a vibrant sauce that sings with soy, hoisin, and honey. Each bite delivers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner that feels special yet remains quick and easy to make. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become one of your absolute favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is straightforward, but each one is vital to creating the full spectrum of flavors and colors that make this dish so irresistible. Each element contributes its unique touch, from the creamy sweetness of mango to the punch of fresh ginger and the luxurious texture of the chicken.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced: Choose fresh chicken for the best tenderness and quick cooking time.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the chicken get a nice velvety coating and thickens the sauce slightly.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: The key umami ingredient that infuses the chicken with deep savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: A neutral oil ideal for stir-frying and ensuring nothing sticks or burns.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a deliciously nutty aroma that instantly elevates the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings vibrant color and a subtle sweetness with a gentle crunch.
- 1/2 red onion, sliced: Provides mild sharpness and a touch of sharp texture contrast.
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced: The star ingredient for juicy sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with rich, savory depth and a touch of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Offers a bright, zesty kick that awakens the palate.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Used as a fresh garnish adding color and mild onion flavor.
- For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Forms the savory foundation of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Contributes sweet, tangy complexity.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances salty and tangy flavors with natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds acidity to brighten and enhance the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry): Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish.
How to Make Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing the thinly sliced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a bowl. This simple marinade not only seasons the chicken but also helps lock in moisture, resulting in tender, succulent pieces that soak up the rich sauce beautifully. Let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes—it’s the easy prep that makes all the difference.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, whisk together the sauce ingredients — soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and the cornstarch slurry — in a small bowl. This mixture is where the magic happens; it blends savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will coat every bite of the stir-fry with perfect balance.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil together in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oils shimmer, add the marinated chicken and stir-fry it for 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden. Then remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to keep warm. This step ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, toss in the red bell pepper and sliced red onion. Stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re just starting to soften but still retain a bit of crispness — this adds that lovely textural contrast. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 30 seconds, releasing those irresistible fragrant oils that fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the diced mango along with the prepared sauce. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, letting the sauce thicken slightly and coat the chicken and vegetables in its glossy, flavorful goodness. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until everything is hot and harmoniously blended.
How to Serve Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing with freshly sliced green onions is a must. They add a burst of vibrant green color and a touch of fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the mango and the richness of the sauce. For an extra touch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a delicate crunch and added visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs incredibly well with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles, which soak up the luscious sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple cucumber salad or steamed bok choy to balance the dish’s sweet and savory intensity.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress at your next dinner, serve your Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe in individual warm bowls topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts. For a fun twist, tuck it into lettuce wraps for a hand-held delight that’s fresh and crunchy. Either way, presentation adds that little something extra that makes the experience memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting, making for a delicious next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain texture and freshness.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind the mango’s texture might change slightly once thawed. To freeze, place the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container or bag and label with the date. Consume within 1 to 2 months for the best quality.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry to help rejuvenate the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, which can add a richer flavor to the dish. Just adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
If hoisin sauce isn’t available, you can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce, a little peanut butter, and a touch of honey to mimic its sweet and tangy profile. It won’t be exact, but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, definitely! To add heat, toss in some red pepper flakes during the stir-fry of the vegetables, or add a splash of chili garlic sauce for a fiery kick that complements the mango’s sweetness beautifully.
Is it okay to use canned mango instead of fresh?
Fresh mango is best for texture and flavor, but in a pinch, canned mango can work. Just drain it well and add it at the last minute to avoid it becoming too soft and mushy during cooking.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it an ideal choice for a quick, tasty dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing this Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe. From the luscious mango to the tender chicken and aromatic sauce, each component comes together effortlessly. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved recipe in your collection, perfect for when you want a meal that feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors right at home.
Print
Chinese-Style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A vibrant and delicious Chinese-style mango chicken stir-fry combining tender, marinated chicken breast with sweet mango, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that balances sweet and savory flavors with a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes while preparing the sauce and vegetables to allow flavors to penetrate and help tenderize the chicken.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch slurry. Whisk well until smooth and set aside for later use.
- Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil together in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced red bell pepper and red onion. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp. Add minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing their essential oils.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, add the diced mango, and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together to coat evenly and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the ingredients.
- Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve the mango chicken stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use firm, ripe mangoes for the best texture and sweetness.
- If mangoes are unavailable, pineapple can be substituted for a similar tropical flavor.
- For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce during stir-frying.
