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Stir-fried chicken with almonds

⏱ 30 min🍳 15 min👤 4 pp★★★☆☆

Even a light and healthy dish can be a main course if based on chicken, and if you do something a bit out of the ordinary it can be as tasty and enjoyable as many other culinary specialties. This is particularly true if we find our inspiration in distant lands, thereby adding some spice to our own imagination. That's why, today, we have decided to take you on a gastronomic journey to the Far East, specifically to China, and suggest you try this delicious chicken with almonds, a traditional recipe which nevertheless keeps something of a local Italian touch, exploiting the secrets of home cooking. Don’t worry: even if chicken doesn’t generally get a great reception in your house because it is rather bland and mundane, with this recipe you will give it a little something extra and your guests will be bound to appreciate its originality. Are you ready to get the oven on and start sharpening your knives?

Ingredients

Nutritional values 385 kcal / serving
Protein
32g
Carbohydrates
18g
Fat
22g
Fiber
4g

* approximate values per serving

Information
30 minutes Preparation time
15 minutes Cooking time
Serves 4 persons
★★★☆☆ Challenging

Preparation

Cut the chicken breast into large cubes, mix them with soy sauce, a pinch of salt, cumin and ginger, and let it marinate for 30 minutes. Cut all the vegetables into large cubes and mix them in a bowl along with the shelled almonds. In a wok or very large frying pan, sauté all the vegetables with plenty of sesame oil. When they are almost done, add the chicken and finish cooking. Serve hot along with steamed basmati rice.

Tips
Do you fancy using rather less common almonds that have not been treated or processed at all? Then, so that you can peel them easily, just warm them with a little hot water first.
Trivia
Our almond chicken is made following the methods of ancient, traditional Chinese recipes, but with the addition of one or two interesting local Italian variations.

Step by step

Chicken
Chicken
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Almond Chicken with Fresh Vegetables

One of the tastiest variations of Almond Chicken is the one that includes a selection of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. These ingredients not only enrich the dish with vibrant colors but also add a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts with the tenderness of the chicken. To prepare this version, simply dice the vegetables and stir-fry them in a wok along with the marinated chicken. The vegetables can be chosen based on the season, ensuring a dish that is always fresh and nutritious. Serving this chicken with steamed basmati rice creates an ideal pairing, making the meal complete and balanced. This way of preparing almond chicken is perfect for those who love dishes rich in flavor and health.

Chinese Almond Chicken

Chinese Almond Chicken is one of the most famous preparations in Asian cuisine, loved for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. In this version, the chicken is marinated with soy sauce, ginger, and cumin, which provide a warm aroma and intense flavor. Cooking takes place in a wok, which helps maintain the crunchiness of the almonds and vegetables. Chinese tradition also includes the use of bean sprouts, which add freshness to the dish. Served with basmati rice, this dish becomes an authentic journey through the flavors of China, ideal for a family dinner or to impress guests with an exotic touch.

Light Almond Chicken without Sesame Oil

For those who desire a lighter version of Almond Chicken, it can be prepared without sesame oil, using instead a steaming method or a non-stick pan. This light variant maintains the unique flavor of the almonds and chicken while reducing calories and fats. Marinating the chicken with soy sauce and spices like cumin and ginger remains essential to not sacrifice taste. Fresh vegetables can be cooked together with the chicken, ensuring a dish rich in nutrients and light. This Light Almond Chicken is perfect for those following a controlled diet but who do not want to give up the pleasure of a good dish.

Almond Chicken: Nutritional Benefits and Calories

Almond Chicken is a dish that offers numerous nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Almonds, rich in healthy fats and vitamins, provide antioxidants and can contribute to heart health. The vegetables added to the dish provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals important for overall well-being. On average, a serving of Almond Chicken contains about 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the added ingredients. This makes the dish a balanced choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Can Almond Chicken be Frozen?

A common question is whether Almond Chicken can be frozen. The answer is yes, it is possible to freeze this dish, but it is advisable to do so without the fresh vegetables, as they may lose their crunchy texture once thawed. To freeze, make sure to cool the chicken completely before transferring it to an airtight container or food bags. In this way, Almond Chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you want to consume it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a pan or microwave, possibly adding a bit of soy sauce to revive the flavors.