We’ve got a real treat for you with our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix recipe—it’s that irresistible stir-fry favorite inspired by classic Asian takeout spots. We love how it packs in tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce that delivers bold flavors in every bite.
This easy homemade version lets us skip the delivery wait and bring authentic tastes straight to our kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests, it’s the perfect blend of simple ingredients and mouthwatering results.
Ingredients
In our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix recipe, we select simple, fresh ingredients to craft a stir-fry that’s packed with bold flavors and textures, from tender chicken to crisp vegetables.
Main Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips for quick stir-frying and even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, used to sear the chicken for a golden, flavorful crust.
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 medium bell pepper (red or green), diced into 1-inch pieces to add crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and a satisfying snap.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned into thin strips to ensure fast cooking while retaining crispness.
Sauce and Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for an aromatic base that infuses the dish with depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated to deliver a zesty kick that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce, low-sodium variety to balance saltiness while keeping the sauce glossy and savory.
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, stirred in for a sweet and tangy element that ties the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil, added at the end for a nutty finish that elevates the authentic Asian-inspired profile.
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, for those who prefer a spicy twist to amp up the heat.
These ingredients combine to make our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix a go-to, flavorful meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix with ease, we need the right tools and equipment. These essentials help us achieve that perfect stir-fry texture and flavor, building on the fresh ingredients we’ve gathered. Let’s break down the key items we’ll use, ensuring everything is ready for efficient cooking.
Essential Tools List
We recommend the following tools for optimal results. Each one plays a crucial role in handling the chicken, vegetables, and sauce with precision:
- Wok or Large Skillet: Our go-to for high-heat stir-frying, this allows us to quickly sear the chicken and veggies while maintaining their crispness. Opt for a non-stick version if you prefer easy cleanup.
- Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing the boneless chicken breasts and chopping vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, dedicated board keeps our prep area safe and organized, preventing any cross-contamination from raw chicken.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil ensure the flavorful sauce hits the right balance every time.
- Mixing Bowls: We use these to marinate the chicken or combine sauce ingredients ahead of time, making the process seamless.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the dish without scratching our cookware, helping us coat everything evenly in that bold sauce.
- Garlic Press: If we’re working with fresh garlic and ginger, this tool crushes them quickly, releasing their aromatic flavors into the mix.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly from prepping ingredients to cooking our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix. They make the recipe not only straightforward but also enjoyable for home cooks of all levels.
Instructions
We make preparing our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix straightforward and fun so you can enjoy bold flavors at home. Let’s dive into the steps using the ingredients and tools we’ve outlined.
Prep
First, we gather and prepare our fresh ingredients for efficient cooking. Slice 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts into thin strips for quick stir-frying then place them in a mixing bowl. Chop 1 medium bell pepper, 1 cup of broccoli florets, and 1 large carrot into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a satisfying crunch.
Next, we create the flavorful sauce. In a separate bowl, combine 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. For a spicy twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if desired. This mixture delivers an aromatic blend that infuses the dish with rich, savory notes.
Cook
We bring the heat to life in our wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil until it shimmers then add the sliced chicken strips. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the chicken turns golden and releases a tempting sizzle indicating it’s nearly cooked through.
Once the chicken is ready, we add the chopped vegetables. Toss in the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot then pour in the prepared sauce. Continue stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the vegetables brighten and develop a crisp-tender texture. The sauce will thicken and coat everything in a glossy, fragrant glaze that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Assemble
Finally, we combine all elements for a balanced plate. Remove the stir-fry from heat and let it rest for 1 minute to allow flavors to meld. Serve our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix over steamed rice or noodles arranging the colorful vegetables and tender chicken prominently for an eye-catching presentation that highlights the dish’s vibrant colors and bold taste.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix recipe and fit it into busy schedules, we recommend preparing components in advance without compromising the dish’s vibrant flavors and crisp textures. This approach allows us to minimize prep time on the day of cooking while ensuring the tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and bold sauce retain their appeal.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We can get a head start by slicing and chopping key ingredients, which helps preserve their freshness and cuts down on last-minute effort:
- Chicken: Slice 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin strips and store them in an airtight container. Marinate with a mixture of 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil for enhanced flavor, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This step infuses the meat with a savory depth that makes it juicier and more aromatic when stir-fried.
- Vegetables: Chop fresh vegetables like 1 bell pepper, 1 cup broccoli florets, and 1 carrot into even pieces. Place them in a sealed bag or container lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture, keeping them crisp for up to 2 days in the fridge. Remember, over-chopping can lead to sogginess, so aim for uniform sizes to maintain that satisfying crunch.
Preparing the Sauce in Advance
Our flavorful sauce—made from garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil—can be mixed ahead to let the ingredients meld into a glossy, aromatic glaze:
- Combine 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a bowl.
- For a spicy twist, add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes if desired.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to use, give it a quick stir to reunite any settled ingredients, ensuring it coats the stir-fry evenly for that irresistible umami kick.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining quality. We suggest the following guidelines to keep everything fresh and safe:
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sliced Chicken | Refrigerate in marinade | 24 hours | Keep below 40°F to prevent bacterial growth and ensure tenderness. |
| Chopped Vegetables | Refrigerate in sealed container | 48 hours | Avoid washing until cooking to preserve crispness and natural flavors. |
| Prepared Sauce | Refrigerate in airtight jar | 72 hours | Shake before use; discard if it develops an off odor for food safety. |
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we can have a quick, restaurant-quality stir-fry ready in minutes, letting the bold tastes and vibrant colors of our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix shine through effortlessly.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this takeout-inspired recipe for House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix. It’s a simple way to bring bold flavors to your table without the wait.
By using fresh ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a meal that’s as nutritious as it’s delicious.
Give it a try and make it a staple in your kitchen—we’re confident it’ll become one of your go-to favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix?
House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix is a homemade stir-fry recipe inspired by Asian takeout, featuring tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a bold, flavorful sauce. It’s an easy, nutritious alternative to delivery, perfect for quick dinners or impressing guests with simple ingredients.
What ingredients are needed for House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix?
You’ll need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh veggies like bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots, plus a sauce made from garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Optional red pepper flakes add spice. These ingredients combine for a delicious, balanced meal.
What tools are required to prepare this recipe?
Essential tools include a wok or large skillet for stir-frying, a chef’s knife and cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for the sauce, mixing bowls for ingredients, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and a garlic press. These make the process efficient for all skill levels.
How do I make House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix?
Start by slicing chicken and chopping veggies. Mix a sauce with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil. Stir-fry chicken until golden, add veggies, then pour in sauce and cook until glazed. Serve over rice or noodles for a vibrant, tasty dish. Total time is about 30 minutes.
Can I make House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like sliced chicken and chopped veggies in advance; store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Make the sauce ahead to let flavors develop. This streamlines cooking for busy days, ensuring a fresh, restaurant-quality meal in minutes.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain texture, or use the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the veggies crisp and flavors intact.
Is House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix spicy?
The base recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add optional red pepper flakes for heat. Adjust to your preference for a mild or fiery version, making it versatile for family meals while keeping the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce prominent.