A classic Asian-inspired stir-fry featuring incredibly tender, juicy chicken achieved through the velveting technique, combined with savory mushrooms and a rich sauce.

Velvet Chicken: Secret to Tender Stir-Fries
A classic Asian-inspired stir-fry featuring incredibly tender, juicy chicken achieved through the velveting technique, combined with savory mushrooms and a rich sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thigh
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (for velveting)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (for velveting)
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) for velveting
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for velveting)
- 1 egg white for velveting
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
- 8 oz mushrooms sliced
- 1 bell pepper sliced (any color)
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 0.5 inch ginger grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (for stir-fry sauce)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 0.5 tsp white pepper
- 2 tbsp water or chicken broth
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for stir-fry sauce thickening)
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- 1. **Velvet the Chicken:** In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and the egg white. Mix thoroughly until all chicken is evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. 2. **Cook Velveted Chicken:** Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the velveted chicken in a single layer, spreading it out. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it's about 80% cooked through (lightly browned but still a little pink inside). Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside. 3. **Stir-fry Vegetables:** Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add the sliced mushrooms and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-fry for another 30 seconds until fragrant. 4. **Prepare Stir-fry Sauce:** While the vegetables cook, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, 2 tbsp water or chicken broth, and 1 tsp cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. 5. **Combine and Finish:** Return the pre-cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over everything. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables, and the chicken is fully cooked. 6. **Serve:** Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice.
Notes
For extra vegetables, feel free to add sliced carrots, snow peas, or broccoli florets along with the mushrooms and bell pepper. Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce to your preference. Ensure you don't overcrowd the wok when cooking the chicken to allow for even browning and to prevent steaming.
