Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry
I still remember the first time I had Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry at a small restaurant in Yangon. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sauce was love at first bite. Since then, I've been on a mission to recreate this dish at home, and after numerous attempts, I'm excited to share my recipe with you.
This recipe is a staple of Myanmar cuisine, and its beauty lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a dish that's both flavorful and authentic. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore the world of Asian cuisine.
One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even as a standalone dish. It's also a great option for meal prep, as it can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. So, let's get started and dive into the world of Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry!
In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to give the dish its distinctive flavor. We'll also be adding some crunchy vegetables, such as bell peppers and carrots, to add texture and color. And, of course, no Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry would be complete without the star of the show: tender and juicy chicken breast.
So, what are you waiting for? Let's get cooking and experience the flavors of Myanmar in the comfort of your own home. With this recipe, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also authentic and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
- The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a savory and slightly sweet sauce.
- The use of high heat and quick cooking time helps to preserve the crunchiness of the vegetables and the tenderness of the chicken.
- The dish is versatile and can be served with steamed rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish.
- It's a great option for meal prep, as it can be refrigerated or frozen for later use.
- The recipe is authentic and true to the flavors of Myanmar cuisine.
- It's a great way to explore the world of Asian cuisine and try new flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
The key to a great Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a savory and slightly sweet sauce that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly. The use of high heat and quick cooking time also helps to preserve the crunchiness of the vegetables and the tenderness of the chicken.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of aromatics, such as garlic and ginger. These ingredients add a depth of flavor to the dish and help to bring out the natural sweetness of the chicken and vegetables. By sautéing the aromatics in oil before adding the other ingredients, we're able to create a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Finally, the use of cornstarch as a thickening agent helps to create a smooth and velvety sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables evenly. This is especially important in a stir-fry, where the sauce needs to be able to cling to the ingredients quickly and evenly.
By following these simple techniques and using the right combination of ingredients, you'll be able to create a Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry that's not only delicious but also authentic and easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including chicken breast, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. You'll also need some aromatics, such as garlic and ginger, to add depth and flavor to the dish. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients, as they will make a big difference in the final taste and texture of the dish.
When shopping for ingredients, look for fresh and flavorful produce, such as bell peppers and carrots. You can also use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available. For the chicken, be sure to use boneless and skinless breast or thighs, as they will cook more evenly and quickly.
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, boneless and skinlessUse high-quality chicken breast for the best flavor and texture. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauceUse a high-quality soy sauce that is low in sodium and has a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauceOyster sauce adds a depth of flavor and umami taste to the dish. You can omit it if you're vegetarian or vegan.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oilSesame oil has a distinct nutty flavor and aroma that complements the other ingredients in the dish. Use a high-quality oil that is fresh and not rancid.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a pungent flavor and aroma to the dish. Be sure to mince it finely so it cooks evenly and quickly.
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, gratedGinger adds a warm, spicy flavor to the dish. Be sure to grate it finely so it cooks evenly and quickly.
- 1 bell pepper, slicedBell peppers add a crunchy texture and sweet flavor to the dish. Use any color bell pepper you like, such as red, yellow, or green.
- 2 carrots, peeled and slicedCarrots add a crunchy texture and sweet flavor to the dish. Use fresh and flavorful carrots for the best taste and texture.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarchCornstarch helps to thicken the sauce and create a smooth, velvety texture. Be sure to mix it with a small amount of water before adding it to the dish.
- 1/4 cup chicken brothChicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the dish. Use a low-sodium broth that is fresh and not expired.
- Salt and pepper to tasteSeason the dish with salt and pepper to taste, using a light hand and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry
- 1Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- 2Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- 3Add the sliced bell pepper and carrots to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
- 4Add the chicken breast to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
- 5In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Add the chicken broth to the bowl and whisk until smooth.
- 6Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is coated.
- 7Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, using a light hand and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- 8Transfer the dish to a serving platter and garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- 9Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- 10Serve the dish hot, with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh and flavorful produce, to make a big difference in the final taste and texture of the dish.
- Don't overcook the chicken or vegetables, as they can become tough and dry.
- Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
- Stir-fry the ingredients quickly and constantly, to prevent them from burning or sticking to the skillet.
- Add the sauce to the skillet in a thin stream, whisking constantly, to prevent lumps from forming.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken or vegetables, which can make them tough and dry.
- Not using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which can lead to foodborne illness.
- Overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
- Not stir-frying the ingredients quickly and constantly, which can cause them to burn or stick to the skillet.
- Adding the sauce to the skillet too quickly, which can cause lumps to form.
- Not letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, which can affect the flavor and texture.
Variations and Substitutions
- Use chicken thighs instead of breast, for a more tender and juicy texture.
- Add other vegetables, such as broccoli or snow peas, to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use different seasonings, such as soy sauce or hoisin sauce, to give the dish a unique flavor.
- Add nuts or seeds, such as peanuts or sesame seeds, to the dish for added crunch and flavor.
- Use a different type of oil, such as peanut oil or avocado oil, for a unique flavor and texture.
- Add a spicy kick, such as red pepper flakes or sriracha, to the dish for added flavor and heat.
What to Serve With Myanmar Chicken Stir Fry
This dish is perfect for serving with steamed rice or noodles, and can be garnished with sliced scallions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Try serving it with a side of stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
You can also serve it with a side of soup, such as wonton soup or egg drop soup, for a comforting and filling meal.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
To refrigerate, simply transfer the dish to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40 F (4 C) or below.
To freeze, transfer the dish to an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer at a temperature of 0 F (-18 C) or below.
To reheat, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
Be sure to reheat the dish to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C), to ensure food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless and skinless chicken breast or thighs work best for this recipe, as they cook evenly and quickly.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in this recipe, but be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
The cooking time for the chicken will depend on the size and thickness of the pieces, but it should take around 5-7 minutes to cook through to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply reheat it until hot and steaming, and serve.
What type of oil is best for stir-frying?
A neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut oil or avocado oil, is best for stir-frying, as it can handle high heat and won't add a strong flavor to the dish.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, be sure to whisk it constantly as it cooks, and add a small amount of water if necessary to thin it out.
Can I add other ingredients to the dish?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the dish, such as nuts or seeds, to give it added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning as needed.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can add spicy ingredients, such as red pepper flakes or sriracha, to give it a kick if you like.

Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and carrots to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
- Add the chicken breast to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Add the chicken broth to the bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is coated.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, using a light hand and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the dish to a serving platter and garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Serve the dish hot, with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!