Chinese Satay Chicken Stir Fry with Steak and Shrimp for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

Why You’ll Love This chinese satay chicken stir fry

• Ease of preparation: This chinese satay chicken stir fry is incredibly simple and quick, wrapping up in under 40 minutes including prep and cooking. With straightforward steps like marinating, stir-frying, and mixing a flavorful satay sauce, busy weeknights become stress-free without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
• Health benefits: Featuring lean chicken breast or thigh for a high-protein base, along with nutrient-packed vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, this stir fry supports a balanced diet. The satay sauce incorporates healthy fats from peanut butter and coconut milk, while fiber and antioxidants from fresh veggies boost wellness in every bite.
• Versatility: Easily adaptable for different dietary needs, the chinese satay chicken stir fry can swap chicken for tofu or beef, and replace soy sauce with gluten-free tamari to suit gluten sensitivities. The sauce’s richness can be lightened by using less peanut butter or substituting full-fat coconut milk with lighter versions for low-calorie options.
• Distinctive flavor: Unlike typical stir fries, this dish stands out with a rich yet balanced satay sauce an aromatic blend of mild curry, peanut butter, coconut milk, and lemongrass. The savory, creamy sauce coats tender chicken and crisp vegetables, delivering a vibrant, satisfying flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Essential Ingredients for chinese satay chicken stir fry

Main Ingredients:

• 250g (8 oz) chicken breast, sliced thinly – tender lean protein perfect for quick cooking and soaking up satay flavor
• 3/4 tsp baking soda (optional) – for tenderizing chicken to achieve a soft texture
• 1/2 tsp salt – enhances overall flavor
• 1–1.5 tsp mild curry powder – builds the warm, aromatic base for the satay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder – earthy, citrusy undertones enriching the sauce
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder – adds depth and slight smokiness
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder – vibrant color and mild bitterness
• 1/4 to 1 tsp chili powder – adjust for preferred spice level
• 1 1/2 tsp curry powder – reinforces curry flavors in the satay blend
• 1/2 tsp salt (additional) – balances sauce seasoning
• 1/4 tsp white or ground black pepper – subtle heat and aroma
• 1 1/2 tbsp smooth peanut butter – creamy richness central to satay sauce
• 2 tsp brown sugar (or 1 tbsp sugar) – sweetens and caramelizes the sauce slightly
• 1 tsp light soy sauce – provides umami and saltiness
• 2 tsp rice vinegar – brightens sauce with gentle acidity
• 1/2 tsp lemongrass paste (or 1 lemongrass stalk, grated) – fresh citrus fragrance authentic to Chinese satay dishes
• 1/3 to 1 cup full-fat coconut milk – creamy body for the sauce, modifiable for desired thickness
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup water – adjust the sauce consistency as needed
• 1 to 4 tbsp peanut or vegetable oil – for stir-frying and flavor enhancement
• 1 onion, chopped – foundational aromatic ingredient
• 2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced – an essential flavor booster
• Optional vegetables: bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, carrots, mushrooms, pak choy – to increase nutrition and texture variety
• Optional garnishes: sliced shallots or scallions, chopped coriander, cashew nuts (unsalted) – add crunch, freshness, and brightness
• To serve: steamed Jasmine rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice – customizable to dietary preferences

Special Dietary Options:

• Vegan: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, replace soy sauce with tamari for gluten-free and vegan compliance, and use plant-based peanut butter and coconut milk variants.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivities without losing umami depth.
• Low-calorie: Opt for light coconut milk varieties, reduce peanut butter quantity, and increase vegetable ratio to lighten the overall calorie impact.

How to Prepare the Perfect chinese satay chicken stir fry: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by slicing 250g of chicken breast thinly for quick, even cooking. Optionally, tenderize the chicken by coating it with 3/4 teaspoon baking soda and letting it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing and patting dry. Toss the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 to 1.5 teaspoons mild curry powder to marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce. Meanwhile, chop one onion finely, mince 2 to 3 garlic cloves, and slice your choice of optional vegetables such as bell peppers and broccoli.

Second Step: Mix the Satay Sauce

In a bowl or jug, combine 1.5 tablespoons smooth peanut butter, 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or 1 tablespoon sugar), 1 teaspoon light soy sauce, 2 teaspoons rice vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon lemongrass paste. Add the dry spice powders: 1.5 teaspoons curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/4 to 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon white or black pepper. Stir thoroughly, then gradually incorporate 1/3 to 1 cup full-fat coconut milk. Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup water to reach your desired sauce consistency. Set aside.

Third Step: Stir-Fry Aromatics and Vegetables

Heat 1 to 4 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add any optional vegetables you’re using and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, aiming for a crisp-tender texture to preserve color and nutrients.

Fourth Step: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken strips to the wok and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until just cooked through and slightly browned. High heat ensures a quick sear locking in juices while maintaining tenderness. Stir continuously for even cooking.

Fifth Step: Add Satay Sauce and Finish

Lower the heat slightly and pour the prepared satay sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir continuously for 1 to 1.5 minutes to thicken the sauce and coat everything evenly. If desired, stir in unsalted cashew nuts at this stage for extra crunch and richness.

Final Step: Serve and Garnish

Immediately serve the chinese satay chicken stir fry over freshly steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with sliced scallions or shallots and chopped coriander to add fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.

For details on chicken tenderizing techniques that really bring out tenderness in stir fries, check out this guide on how to tenderize chicken.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your chinese satay chicken stir fry

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If chicken isn’t your preferred protein or you have dietary restrictions, this chinese satay stir fry is highly adaptable:

• Firm tofu or tempeh: Excellent vegan substitutes that absorb the satay sauce, turning each bite flavorful and satisfying.
• Beef or steak strips: For a meatier, richer twist retaining the same satay flavor profile adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Shrimp: A great alternative that cooks very quickly and pairs beautifully with the creamy satay sauce.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Vegetables and seasonings can be switched up based on season, preference, or dietary needs:

• Vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or baby corn: Add crunch and extra vitamins to diversify textures and nutrition.
• Nut butter swap: Use almond or cashew butter as an alternative to peanut butter if allergies are a concern.
• Soy sauce alternatives: Replace soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the recipe gluten-free.
• Spice adjustments: Include chili flakes or fresh chilies to ramp up heat or omit chili powder for a milder dish.

Mastering chinese satay chicken stir fry: Advanced Tips and Variations

• Pro cooking techniques: Preheat your wok until very hot before adding oil. This allows for quick, high-heat cooking that locks in moisture and gives chicken and vegetables a nice sear.
• Flavor variations: Add a squeeze of lime or a splash of fish sauce just before serving to add brightness and umami depth.
• Presentation tips: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chili flakes, chopped peanuts, and fresh herbs for an appealing finish that also adds flavor and texture.
• Make-ahead options: Prepare the satay sauce in advance and marinate the chicken overnight to deepen flavors, cutting down active cooking time on busy days.

How to Store chinese satay chicken stir fry: Best Practices

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About chinese satay chicken stir fry

chinese satay chicken stir fry

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A delightful banana bread recipe that results in a moist, flavorful loaf packed with banana goodness. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert!

• Total Time: 95 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

250g chicken breast for soaking up satay flavor

3/4 tsp baking soda for tenderizing chicken

1/2 tsp salt

1–1.5 tsp mild curry powder

1/2 tsp coriander powder

1/2 tsp cumin powder

1/4 tsp turmeric powder

1/4 to 1 tsp chili powder

1 1/2 tsp curry powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp white or ground black pepper

1 1/2 tbsp smooth peanut butter

2 tsp brown sugar

1 tsp light soy sauce

2 tsp rice vinegar

1/2 tsp lemongrass paste

1/3 to 1 cup full-fat coconut milk

1/4 to 1/2 cup water

1 to 4 tbsp peanut or vegetable oil

1 onion

2 to 3 garlic cloves

bell peppers

broccoli

snow peas

carrots

mushrooms

pak choy

sliced shallots

scallions

chopped coriander

cashew nuts

steamed Jasmine rice

noodles

cauliflower rice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

First Step: Prep Your Ingredients Begin by slicing 250g of chicken breast thinly for quick, even cooking. Optionally, tenderize the chicken by coating it with 3/4 teaspoon baking soda and letting it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing and patting dry. Toss the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 to 1.5 teaspoons mild curry powder to marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce. Meanwhile, chop one onion finely, mince 2 to 3 garlic cloves, and slice your choice of optional vegetables such as bell peppers and broccoli.

Second Step: Mix the Satay Sauce In a bowl or jug, combine 1.5 tablespoons smooth peanut butter, 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or 1 tablespoon sugar), 1 teaspoon light soy sauce, 2 teaspoons rice vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon lemongrass paste. Add the dry spice powders: 1.5 teaspoons curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/4 to 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon white or black pepper. Stir thoroughly, then gradually incorporate 1/3 to 1 cup full-fat coconut milk. Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup water to reach your desired sauce consistency. Set aside.

Third Step: Stir-Fry Aromatics and Vegetables Heat 1 to 4 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add any optional vegetables you’re using and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, aiming for a crisp-tender texture to preserve color and nutrients.

Fourth Step: Cook the Chicken Add the marinated chicken strips to the wok and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until just cooked through and slightly browned. High heat ensures a quick sear locking in juices while maintaining tenderness. Stir continuously for even cooking.

Fifth Step: Add Satay Sauce and Finish Lower the heat slightly and pour the prepared satay sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir continuously for 1 to 1.5 minutes to thicken the sauce and coat everything evenly. If desired, stir in unsalted cashew nuts at this stage for extra crunch and richness.

Final Step: Serve and Garnish Immediately serve the chinese satay chicken stir fry over freshly steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with sliced scallions or shallots and chopped coriander to add fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.

Notes

For a sweeter banana bread, use ultra-ripe bananas. You can also add chocolate chips for extra flavor.

• Author: Camille Hayes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg