Chinese Almond Chicken Recipes

You may have tasted almond chicken before. This dish has chicken pieces, almonds, and veggies in a tasty sauce.

You can make it at home with easy ingredients and steps.

Follow the guide below to make authentic Chinese almond chicken.

Classic Chinese Almond Chicken Recipe

You'll enjoy this easy and delicious Chinese almond chicken recipe, especially if you love Chinese food.

It's a healthy and satisfying stir-fry that features tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and colorful vegetables in a sweet and savory sauce.

You can serve it with rice, noodles, or lettuce for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Almonds
• mushrooms
• Bamboo shoots
• Celery
• Onion
• Water chestnuts
• Snow peas
• Chicken broth
• Sherry
• Sugar
• Cornstarch

Directions:

1. Mix a large bowl of soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, sherry, ginger, and garlic. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat one tablespoon of oil and toast almonds until golden, about 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Heat another tablespoon of oil and stir-fry vegetables in the same skillet over high heat for 1 minute or until crisp-tender. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
4. In the same skillet over high heat, heat 1/4 cup of oil and cook chicken for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
5. Whisk together chicken broth, sherry, sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Pour over the chicken and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until sauce is thickened, for about 2 minutes.
6. Stir in toasted almonds and vegetables and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or lettuce if desired.

Regional Variations

Almond chicken is a delicious dish that you can make in different ways.

Each region and cooking style has its variation.

Here are four types of almond chicken: Cantonese, Szechuan, Hunan, and Taiwanese.

You can also find some easy recipes to try at home.

1. Cantonese-style Almond Chicken

Cantonese-style almond chicken is a delicious dish that combines crispy chicken with a rich and savory sauce.

Ingredients:

• Four chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• Cornstarch
• Two eggs, beaten
• Oil for frying
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• One onion, chopped
• Two cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• Two tablespoons of rice vinegar
• Two tablespoons sugar
• Two tablespoons of hoisin sauce
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• Shredded lettuce

Directions:

1. Cut the chicken into thin slices and season with salt and pepper. Coat them with cornstarch and dip them in egg.
2. Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and cooked for about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, toast the almonds until lightly browned. Stir them often, about 5 minutes. Set them aside.
4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat two tablespoons of oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the broth, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and hoisin sauce. Bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened for about 10 minutes.
6. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
7. To serve, put some lettuce on a large platter. Top it with the chicken slices. Spoon the sauce and vegetables over the chicken. Sprinkle with the almonds.

2. Szechuan-style Almond Chicken

You might enjoy Szechuan almond chicken if you like spicy and tangy food.

This dish has chicken pieces and vegetables stir-fried in a fiery sauce.

The sauce has chili oil, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns.

Roasted peanuts and cilantro add crunch and freshness to the dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into thin strips
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Two tablespoons of cornstarch
• Two tablespoons of oil
• 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts
• Two tablespoons of chopped cilantro

For the sauce:

• 1/4 cup of chili oil
• Three tablespoons of vinegar
• Two tablespoons of soy sauce
• One tablespoon of sugar
• Four cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 inch of ginger, grated
• One teaspoon of Szechuan peppercorns, crushed

For the stir-fry:

• Two tablespoons of oil
• One red bell pepper, sliced
• One green bell pepper, sliced
• One onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Season chicken strips with salt and pepper. Lightly coat them with cornstarch and shake off excess. Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat and cook chicken until browned and done for about 15 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
2. Whisk chili oil, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns in a small bowl to make the sauce. Set aside.
3. Heat more oil in the same skillet over high heat and cook bell peppers and onion until crisp-tender, about 10 minutes—season with salt and pepper.
4. Add chicken and sauce to the skillet and toss to combine. Sprinkle peanuts and cilantro on top.

3. Hunan-style Almond Chicken

Hunan-style almond chicken is a mouthwatering dish with a spicy kick.

It originates from Hunan province in China, where people enjoy bold and vibrant flavors.

This dish is a great way to add heat and crunch.

You can adjust the amount of chilies according to your taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
• 1/4 cup of cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying
• 1/4 cup of roasted almonds
• 6 to 8 dried red chilies, cut into halves
• Two cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 inch of ginger, peeled and minced
• Two tablespoons of vinegar
• Two tablespoons of soy sauce
• Two tablespoons of sugar
• 1/4 cup of chicken stock
• One tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water

Directions:

• Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper and coat them with cornstarch. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
• Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat and fry the chicken in batches until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.
• Heat some oil over medium-high heat in the same skillet and stir-fry the almonds, chilies, garlic, and ginger for about 2 minutes or until fragrant.
• Add the vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and chicken stock and boil.
• Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce is thickened.
• Add the chicken and toss to coat with the sauce.
• Serve hot with steamed rice.

4. Taiwanese-style Almond Chicken

This dish combines tender chicken thigh pieces with crunchy almonds and fresh vegetables.

Its light and savory taste showcases Taiwan's delicate and delicious cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thigh, diced
• Two tablespoons of soy sauce
• One tablespoon of rice wine
• One teaspoon of sugar
• One tablespoon of cornstarch
• Oil for frying
• 1/4 cup of roasted almonds
• Four green onions, sliced
• Two stalks of celery, sliced diagonally
• One carrot peeled and sliced diagonally
• 4 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup of bamboo shoots, sliced
• 1/2 cup of water chestnuts, sliced
• 1/4 cup of oyster sauce

Directions:

1. Toss the chicken with soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, and cornstarch in a medium bowl. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat and stir-fry the chicken until cooked. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
3. Heat some oil over medium-high heat in the same skillet and stir-fry the almonds for about 2 minutes or until golden. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
4. Heat some oil over high heat in the same skillet and stir-fry the green onions for about 1 minute or until wilted.
5. Add the celery, carrot, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and oyster sauce and stir-fry for about 3 minutes or until crisp-tender.
6. Add the chicken and almonds and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Modern Twists and Fusion Recipes

If you love Chinese almond chicken, you might want to try some of these modern twists and fusion recipes.

They are easy to make, delicious, and healthy.

1. Almond-crusted Chicken

This recipe takes the classic Chinese almond chicken to the next level by coating the chicken with a crunchy almond crust.

The chicken is baked in the oven until golden and juicy, then served with a tangy lemon sauce.

This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Two eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• Two tablespoons butter
• Two tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• Two tablespoons honey
• Two teaspoons cornstarch
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the chicken in the egg, then press the almonds onto both sides, covering them completely.
4. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and the almonds are golden.
5. Melt the butter and olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in the chicken broth, lemon juice, honey, and cornstarch. Bring the sauce to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken and garnish with parsley.

2. Chinese Almond Chicken Salad

This salad is a refreshing and satisfying way to enjoy Chinese almond chicken.

It features crisp lettuce, shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, mandarin oranges, and sliced almonds.

The chicken is tossed with a sweet and savory dressing made with soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, honey, and ginger.

This salad is great for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients:

• Four cups chopped romaine lettuce
• Two cups shredded purple cabbage
• One cup of shredded carrots
• four green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• One (11 oz) can of mandarin oranges, drained
• Two cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• Two tablespoons of sesame oil
• Two tablespoons of rice vinegar
• Two tablespoons honey
• One teaspoon of grated ginger

Directions:

1. Toss the lettuce, cabbage, carrots, green onions, almonds, and mandarin oranges in a large bowl.
2. Whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, honey, and ginger in a small bowl.
3. Add the chicken to the dressing and toss to coat well.
4. Divide the salad among four plates and top with the chicken mixture.

4. Chinese Almond Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These wraps are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy Chinese almond chicken.

They are low-carb and gluten-free; you can customize them with your favorite toppings.

The almond sauce is rich and creamy, and the chicken is tender and juicy.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup almond butter
• Two tablespoons water
• Two tablespoons of soy sauce
• One tablespoon honey
• One tablespoon of lime juice
• One teaspoon of minced garlic
• One teaspoon of minced ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• One tablespoon oil
• 1 pound ground chicken
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 lettuce leaves (such as butter or romaine)
• Sliced almonds, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges for serving

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk the almond butter, water, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) together until smooth. Set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken, breaking it up with a spatula until browned and cooked. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the lettuce leaves and drizzle with the almond sauce. Sprinkle with sliced almonds and cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.

4. Vegan Chinese Almond "Chicken"

This vegan version of Chinese almond chicken uses tempeh or tofu as the protein source.

It is coated in a crispy batter and fried until golden.

Then it is tossed in a sweet and savory almond sauce and served over rice or noodles.

Ingredients:

For the almond sauce:

• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• Two tablespoons of soy sauce
• Two tablespoons of maple syrup
• One tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

For the batter:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• One teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup water

For the "chicken":

• Oil for frying
• 8 ounces tempeh or extra-firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Sliced almonds and chopped scallions for serving

Directions:

For the almond sauce:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk the broth, soy sauce, maple syrup, cornstarch, and almond extract together until smooth. Bring to a boil and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally. Keep warm.

For the batter:

Whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and water together in a medium bowl until smooth.

For the "chicken":

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dip the tempeh or tofu in the batter and shake off any excess. Fry in batches until golden and crisp on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

Toss the fried tempeh or tofu with the almond sauce in a large bowl. Sprinkle with sliced almonds and scallions if desired. Serve over rice or noodles.

Final Thoughts

Traditional Chinese almond chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish showcasing Chinese cuisine's culinary richness.

We hope you have gained a deeper appreciation for the dish's cultural significance and culinary potential by exploring its basic ingredients, traditional preparation techniques, and regional variations.

From the classic Chinese almond chicken recipe to the distinct flavors of Cantonese, Szechuan, Hunan, and Taiwanese styles, there is an almond chicken dish to suit every palate.

Modern twists and fusion recipes demonstrate this dish's adaptability, with options like almond-crusted chicken, Chinese almond chicken salad, and almond chicken lettuce wraps catering to contemporary tastes.

Including a vegan alternative for Chinese almond chicken, using tempeh or tofu further emphasizes the dish's versatility and widespread appeal.

Traditional Chinese almond chicken is a rich tapestry of flavors, techniques, and possibilities that can be explored and enjoyed by chefs and food enthusiasts alike.