Name: Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry in Just 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast (Slice into thin strips for quick cooking.); 1 medium Mango (Ensure it's ripe or swap for pineapple.); 1 medium Green Pepper (Can substitute with any favorite vegetable.); 2 tablespoons Oil (Use vegetable or canola oil for best results.); 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (Provides a sweet-spicy flavor base.); 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Elevates the umami taste.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice (Bottled lime juice works in a pinch.); 2 tablespoons Green Onion (Offers fresh flavor and color.)

As I walked through the bustling streets of Bangkok, the tantalizing aromas of sizzling stir-fries filled the air, igniting my passion for vibrant flavors and quick meals. That’s the inspiration behind my 20-Minute Thai-Inspired Mango Chicken Stir-fry, a delightful dish that effortlessly brings a taste of Asia to your dinner table. This recipe is not just a feast for the senses; it’s an absolute lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence yet you still crave something homemade and satisfying. With its perfect blend of tender chicken, juicy mango, and a sweet-tangy sauce, this stir-fry brings joy and warmth to even the busiest days. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Are you ready to make your kitchen come alive with this scrumptious dish? Let’s dive into the flavors together!

Why is this Mango Chicken Stir-fry a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a homemade meal in a hurry.

Bursting with Flavor: The fusion of sweet mango and savory chicken creates a delicious balance that will delight your taste buds.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize your stir-fry by swapping chicken for tofu or shrimp and adding in your favorite veggies, like snap peas or carrots.

Health-Conscious: Packed with lean protein and vibrant vegetables, this dish offers nutrition without sacrificing taste, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Family-Friendly: With its appealing flavors and colorful presentation, this stir-fry is sure to please both kids and adults alike, perfect for those family dinners.

If you’re a fan of quick meals, check out my other crowd-pleasers like Grilled Chicken Sweet or Chicken Alfredo Tater.

Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry Ingredients

• Get ready to create a deliciously vibrant dish!

For the Stir-fry

Chicken Breast – Lean protein; slice into thin strips for quick cooking.
Mango – Adds sweetness and tropical flair; ensure it’s ripe, or swap for pineapple if preferred.
Green Pepper – For crunch; bell peppers or any favorite vegetable can be substituted.
Oil – A neutral cooking medium; opt for vegetable or canola oil for best results.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides a sweet-spicy flavor base; can also be made at home if desired.
Fish Sauce – Elevates the umami taste; try mushroom sauce for a vegetarian version.
Fresh Lime Juice – Balances sweetness with acidity; bottled lime juice works in a pinch.

For Garnish

Green Onion – Offers fresh flavor and color; replace with chives if needed.

This Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful way to bring quick and delicious meals to your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the Thai sweet chili sauce, fish sauce, and fresh lime juice until well combined. This tangy and sweet mixture will be the flavorful base for your Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry. Set the sauce aside, as it will be added later to enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced chicken breast and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through, with no pink remaining. The chicken should be tender and well-seared to create a delicious foundation for your stir-fry.

Step 3: Add Vegetables
Next, incorporate the sliced green pepper into the skillet, stirring well to mix with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the green pepper becomes crispy-tender and retains its vibrant color. This step adds crunch and freshness to your Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.

Step 4: Combine Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and peppers in the skillet, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and combining the flavors. You’ll notice the sauce bubbling as it melds with the chicken and veggies.

Step 5: Finish with Mango
Gently fold in the ripe mango slices and chopped green onion, cooking briefly for another minute. These ingredients should warm through but remain slightly firm to preserve their texture and flavor. This final addition gives your Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry a bright and fruity finish.

Step 6: Serve
Carefully plate the stir-fry while it’s still hot, showcasing the colorful blend of chicken, mango, and peppers. Serve this delightful dish alongside a bed of steamed rice or in lettuce wraps for a fresh take. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and vibrant flavors of your homemade meal!

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry

Fridge: Store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This ensures your delicious dish remains fresh and ready to enjoy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen stir-fry overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Notes: Over time, the quality might diminish, particularly for the mango; it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Make Ahead Options

This Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during those busy weeknights! You can slice the chicken and vegetables, as well as prepare the sauce, up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate everything in airtight containers to maintain freshness. To preserve the mango’s texture, it’s best to add it just before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook the chicken and veggies first, then add the sauce and mango, stirring until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll have a delicious and vibrant dinner on the table with minimal effort, just like a homemade favorite!

Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir-fry Variations

Feel free to tailor this recipe to your taste buds and dietary needs; the possibilities are as bright as the flavors!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu for a delicious plant-based alternative that will soak up all the flavors.
Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a lovely seafood twist that cooks up in no time.
Crunchy Additions: Toss in roasted cashews or peanuts for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender mango.
Extra Veggies: Replace green peppers with vibrant snap peas or carrots for a delightful variety in texture and color.
Herb Boost: Add fresh cilantro or basil at the end for an aromatic touch that will elevate your stir-fry.
Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture; it’ll be a fiery delight!
Coconut Flavor: Swap out regular oil for coconut oil for a subtle, tropical flavor that ties perfectly with the mango.
Zesty Lemon: For a citrusy twist, include lemon zest along with lime juice to brighten up your dish even more.

If you’re inspired to make other crowd-pleasers, try my Garlic Parmesan Chicken or the vibrant Street Corn Chicken for dinner ideas that excite!

Expert Tips for Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry

Uniform Chicken Slices: Ensure your chicken breast is cut into even strips for consistent cooking; uneven pieces can lead to some being undercooked while others are overdone.
Control the Heat: Keep your skillet at medium-high heat to achieve that perfect sear on the chicken and vegetables. Too low, and they’ll steam instead of stir-fry.
Don’t Overcook the Mango: Gently fold the mango slices in towards the end of cooking. If overcooked, they’ll turn mushy, losing their juicy sweetness.
Adjust Spiciness: Start with less Thai sweet chili sauce if you’re unsure of the heat level, and add more to taste. This way, you can personalize the dish to your liking.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to add different vegetables like snap peas or carrots to the mix! This will enhance texture and add even more color to your Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.

What to Serve with Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry?

A vibrant meal deserves equally delightful companions to elevate the flavors and create a memorable dining experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its subtle fragrance and fluffy texture soak up the delicious sauce, providing the perfect base that complements the stir-fry’s bold flavors.
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: With a crunchy exterior and fresh vegetable filling, these rolls add another layer of texture that’s both satisfying and delicious alongside your dish.
Mango Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, cucumber, and lime juice adds brightness and a playful sweetness, pairing perfectly with the savory stir-fry.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This lightly seasoned green is tender and crisp, bringing a healthy crunch that balances out the richness of the chicken.
Coconut Water: Its natural sweetness and hydrating properties offer a refreshing drink choice that complements the tropical flavors of the stir-fry beautifully.
Lychee Sorbet: A cool and fruity dessert that cleanses the palate, leaving a lingering sweetness reminiscent of the mango in your stir-fry.

Indulge in these pairings that will create a full, harmonious meal bursting with fresh flavors and textures!

Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe mangoes for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! When selecting mangoes, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure and are free of dark spots or blemishes. A ripe mango should have a rich color and a sweet, fruity aroma. If you can’t find ripe mangoes, you can substitute with fresh pineapple for a similar sweetness.

Can I store leftovers, and for how long?
Yes! Store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal later on!

What’s the best way to freeze this stir-fry?
To freeze your Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry, make sure it has completely cooled. Transfer the stir-fry to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to restore its delicious texture.

How can I ensure my chicken is cooked properly?
Great question! Slice your chicken breast into even strips to ensure they cook uniformly. Stir-fry them over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes until no pink remains, and they are nicely browned. Using a meat thermometer can also help — chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Is this dish suitable for those with allergies?
If you’re concerned about allergies, make sure to check the labels on your sauces. The fish sauce contains seafood, which may trigger allergies, so consider using a mushroom sauce as a flavorful alternative for a vegetarian option. Always adapt the recipe based on individual dietary restrictions or preferences to ensure everyone’s enjoyment!