Classic Chop Suey – Quick Comfort Stir-Fry Dinner

Classic Chop Suey brings tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce together in one comforting skillet. This take on the traditional favorite cooks fast, tastes fresh, and works perfectly for busy weeknights. The balanced textures and familiar flavors make it a reliable family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delivers classic takeout-style flavor at home
• Uses simple pantry and fridge ingredients
• Cooks quickly in one pan
• Pairs well with rice or noodles
• Stores and reheats beautifully

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup shredded green cabbage
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger

Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add onion, celery, and mushrooms to the same pan. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Add garlic and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Whisk chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and black pepper in a bowl.
6. Return chicken to the pan. Pour sauce over the mixture and stir well.
7. Add cabbage and bean sprouts. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until vegetables soften and sauce thickens.
8. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations

• Slice chicken thinly to ensure fast, even cooking
• Substitute beef or shrimp if preferred
• Add water chestnuts for extra crunch
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels
• Stir constantly once sauce thickens to prevent sticking

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat
• Add a small splash of chicken broth when reheating to loosen the sauce
• Freeze fully cooled Chop Suey in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a classic presentation
• Pair with brown rice for a heartier option
• Spoon over noodles for a filling one-bowl meal
• Serve alongside egg drop soup or vegetable soup
• Pair with lightly steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra vegetables

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Chop Suey different from Chow Mein?

Chop Suey focuses on vegetables and sauce served over rice, while Chow Mein uses noodles and less sauce. Chop Suey delivers a softer texture with a richer gravy-style finish.

Can I make Chop Suey ahead of time?

Yes. Chop Suey reheats well and often tastes better the next day as the flavors settle. Store it properly and reheat gently for best results.

Is Chop Suey healthy?

This dish includes lean protein and plenty of vegetables. You control sodium and oil, making it lighter than restaurant versions.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives. Cornstarch already works naturally without gluten.

Ready to Make It?

Classic Chop Suey offers comfort, speed, and flexibility in one skillet. It fits busy schedules while delivering familiar flavors everyone enjoys. Save this recipe now so it’s ready the next time you need a dependable dinner idea.

You Might Also Like

• Classic Cottage Pie – Hearty beef and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken – Juicy chicken cooked in rich garlic butter sauce.
• Creamy Chicken Florentine – Savory chicken and spinach baked in a creamy sauce.
• Classic Irish Colcannon – Mashed potatoes with cabbage and butter for traditional comfort.

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