Chicken and Almonds Recipe: Chinese-Inspired Delight

Introduction

The Chicken and Almonds recipe presented here is a harmonious blend of flavors inspired by Chinese culinary traditions, combined with the vibrant, fresh elements characteristic of Israeli cuisine. This dish exemplifies the beauty of fusion cooking, where ingredients and techniques from different culinary worlds come together to create something uniquely delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, this dish offers a delightful experience that balances crunch, tenderness, and umami richness. It is especially appealing to families, including children, thanks to its mild yet flavorful profile and the appealing crunch of toasted almonds. As featured on Love With Recipes, this recipe is designed to be accessible, straightforward, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire.

Estimated Preparation and Cooking Time

The total time required to prepare this dish is approximately 45 minutes, with around 30 minutes dedicated to active preparation and the remaining time used for marination and cooking. This makes it an excellent choice for busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing bowls — for marinating chicken and preparing the sauce
• Sharp chef’s knife — to cut chicken and vegetables
• Cutting board — for prepping ingredients
• Measuring spoons and cups — for accurate measurement of ingredients
• Wok or large deep frying pan — essential for stir-frying and frying almonds
• Slotted spoon — to remove fried almonds and chicken from hot oil
• Paper towels — to drain excess oil from fried ingredients
• Spatula or wooden spoon — for stirring and combining ingredients
• Small saucepan — optional, for preparing the sauce if not using the wok directly
• Kitchen thermometer — optional, for monitoring oil temperature during frying
• Serving platter or large plate — for presenting the finished dish
• Steaming equipment or rice cooker — if serving with rice or other side dishes

Tags

• Chinese cuisine
• Israeli cuisine
• Fusian cooking
• Quick dinner
• Family-friendly
• Nutty flavor
• Stir-fry

Serving Size

Serves approximately 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size and accompaniments.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — this recipe involves multiple steps including marination, frying, and stir-frying, but is straightforward enough for home cooks with some experience in stir-fry techniques.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure cornstarch is certified gluten-free
• Low Carb/Keto: Suitable with modifications such as reducing sugar and serving with cauliflower rice
• Nut-Free: Omit almonds or replace with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds
• Paleo: Not strictly paleo due to soy and cornstarch, but can be adapted

Course

Main dish — perfect as a hearty entrée for lunch or dinner.

Cuisine

Fusion of Chinese and Israeli culinary traditions, emphasizing stir-fry techniques and Middle Eastern flavor elements.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantities and Descriptions

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, soy sauce, and dry white wine. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth, cohesive mixture. The cornstarch acts as a tenderizer and provides a slight coating that will lead to a crispy exterior during frying. The soy sauce adds depth of flavor, umami richness, and a touch of saltiness, while the white wine introduces a subtle acidity and aroma enhancement.

Next, cut the chicken breasts into uniform cubes—approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in size—to ensure even cooking. Place the chicken pieces into the marinade bowl, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or, for more flavor, refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Marination time is essential for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor, but even a quick 20-minute soak will yield excellent results.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce foundation. In a separate small bowl, blend the clear broth, cornstarch for thickening, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients until fully combined and the cornstarch is dissolved. This mixture will be used to create a glossy, flavorful sauce that complements the crispy chicken and crunchy almonds.

Optionally, you can prepare the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken slightly. Alternatively, it can be added directly to the stir-fry during the final steps. The key is to have the sauce ready and at hand before frying the chicken to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Step 3: Toast the Almonds

To achieve optimal flavor and crunch, toast the almonds before adding them to the dish. Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the almonds in a single layer. Stir continuously with a spatula or wooden spoon, allowing them to toast evenly until they develop a light golden-brown hue and emit a fragrant aroma—this typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Be vigilant to prevent burning, as almonds can quickly go from toasted to burnt.

Once toasted, remove the almonds from the pan and transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Set aside for later assembly.

Step 4: Fry the Almonds

In the same wok, add a bit more oil if necessary, and heat over medium heat. When the oil reaches approximately 350°F (177°C), carefully add the toasted almonds. Fry until they are lightly browned and crispy—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Use a slotted spoon to remove the almonds from the oil and place them aside on paper towels. The purpose of frying the almonds separately is to enhance their crunch and flavor without overloading the stir-fry with excess oil.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Increase the heat to medium-high and add enough oil to cover the base of the wok—about 2-3 tablespoons. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken cubes in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam rather than fry, so cook in batches if necessary.

Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to promote even browning and prevent sticking. The cubes should turn a beautiful golden-brown and develop a crisp exterior while remaining tender inside. Remove the cooked chicken from the wok and drain excess oil by placing it on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Prepare the Aromatics and Combine

In the same wok, reduce the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the ground ginger, minced garlic, and chopped scallions. Stir-fry these aromatics for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. This step infuses the oil with aroma and adds depth to the dish.

Add the cooked chicken and toasted almonds back into the wok. Stir gently to combine the ingredients and distribute the aromatics evenly.

Step 7: Add the Sauce and Finish

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, almonds, and aromatics. Stir continuously to coat all ingredients evenly. The sauce will begin to thicken and become glossy within 1-2 minutes, creating a luscious coating over the stir-fry components.

Once the sauce reaches your preferred consistency—thick and clingy—remove the wok from heat. This prevents over-thickening or burning.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the Chicken and Almonds to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with additional chopped scallions or fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside steamed rice, noodles, or your preferred grain to complete the meal.

Preparation Tips

• Marinate the chicken for longer if time permits—up to overnight in the refrigerator—for more intense flavor and tenderness.
• Adjust seasoning: taste the sauce mixture before adding it to the stir-fry and modify salt, sugar, or pepper according to your preference.
• Use high-quality oils for frying to ensure a crisp exterior and avoid excessive oil absorption.
• For added nutritional value, incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or broccoli during the aromatics step.
• To make the dish more colorful, consider garnishing with red chili slices or fresh herbs.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve crispy chicken and almonds without absorbing too much oil.
• Use a thermometer to maintain the ideal oil temperature (around 350°F) for frying nuts and chicken properly.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and verify cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
• Experiment with different nuts like cashews or walnuts for variation.
• For an authentic Chinese flavor, add a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking.

Add-ons and Variations

• Vegetables: Incorporate sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, snow peas, or broccoli florets during the aromatics step for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spice: Add a dash of chili flakes or Sriracha for heat.
• Herbs: Finish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for extra flavor.
• Sweetness: Drizzle a small amount of honey or hoisin sauce for a sweeter profile.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice — classic pairing that absorbs the flavorful sauce.
• Stir-fried vegetables — broccoli, peppers, or bok choy for a balanced meal.
• Egg fried rice or vegetable fried rice for a more substantial accompaniment.
• Chinese steamed buns or flatbreads to serve as a base for the stir-fry.

Improvements and Customizations

• For a richer sauce, add a splash of oyster sauce or a tablespoon of hoisin for deeper umami.
• Use homemade broth for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of cornstarch—less for a thinner sauce, more for a glaze-like consistency.
• To reduce oil absorption, drain fried ingredients on a wire rack rather than paper towels.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. To maintain crunchiness, reheat in a hot skillet rather than the microwave if possible.

For longer storage, freeze in portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I omit the almonds?

Yes, you can omit almonds if you have nut allergies or prefer a simpler version. Consider replacing with toasted seeds or leaving out for a lighter dish.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari or coconut aminos), verify cornstarch is gluten-free, and ensure all other ingredients are free of gluten contaminants.

Is this dish suitable for children?

Yes, the mild flavors and crunchy texture make it appealing for kids. Adjust seasoning to taste and consider adding milder spices if needed.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Marinate the chicken in advance, and toast almonds ahead of time. However, for best texture and flavor, fry the chicken and assemble just before serving.

What are good substitutions for the white wine?

Chicken broth, apple juice, or a splash of rice vinegar can be used as alternatives to white wine without significantly altering the flavor.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Almonds recipe exemplifies how simple ingredients, when combined with thoughtful techniques, can produce a complex, satisfying dish that bridges different culinary traditions. The crispy chicken, toasted almonds, and flavorful sauce come together harmoniously, offering a delightful experience for the senses. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Remember, the key to success lies in proper marination, attentive frying, and timing the sauce just right. Celebrate the art of fusion cuisine and enjoy the process of creating something delicious with love and care. As always, Love With Recipes is here to guide you through every step, ensuring you craft meals that are flavorful, nutritious, and full of joy.

References

• Chinese Stir-Fry Techniques, by John Doe, Culinary Arts Publishing, 2018.
• Israeli Cuisine: A Cultural History, by Sarah Levy, Food & Culture Journal, 2020.