If you’ve ever craved the bold flavors of Chinese takeout, our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish combines tender chicken with a perfect blend of savory and slightly spicy sauces that make every bite unforgettable. It’s a classic that brings the taste of your favorite restaurant right into your kitchen.
We love how easy it is to whip up this flavorful meal without sacrificing any of the authentic taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe hits all the right notes. Let’s dive into making this irresistible dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and become a staple in your home cooking rotation.
Ingredients
To recreate the bold flavors of our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix, we need fresh ingredients prepared with precision. Let’s break down what goes into every flavorful bite.
For the Chicken Marinade
Marinating the chicken ensures every piece is tender and infused with savory goodness. Here’s what we use:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
For the Sauce
The sauce is the heart of our dish. It balances savory, sweet, and spicy notes. Use the following:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons | Use dark soy for depth |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tablespoons | Adds rich umami flavor |
| Hoisin sauce | 1 tablespoon | Balances sweetness |
| Chili garlic sauce | 1 teaspoon | Adjust for preferred spice |
| Brown sugar | 1 teaspoon | Enhances caramelization |
| Chicken broth | 1/4 cup | Controls sauce consistency |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon | Mixed with 1 tablespoon water |
For Stir-Fry Vegetables
Colorful fresh vegetables deliver crunch and vibrant flavors:
- 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced green bell peppers
- 1/2 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup snap peas, trimmed
These ingredients help us build the layers of taste and texture that make our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix a standout dish.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix Recipe with authenticity and ease, having the right equipment is essential. Below is a list of must-have tools that will ensure our cooking process is smooth and the flavors develop perfectly.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Wok or Large Skillet
Ideal for quick, even stir-frying. The high sides help toss ingredients, and the intense heat locks in flavors.
- Mixing Bowls
For marinating the chicken and mixing sauces effectively.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accurate measurement of ingredients like soy sauce, vinegars, and cornstarch guarantees balanced taste and texture.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
Sharp knife for slicing chicken and chopping vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
To stir and toss the ingredients without damaging our wok or skillet.
- Small Whisk
For blending the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
Optional but Helpful
- Garlic Press
Speeds up mincing fresh garlic, enhancing the dish’s aromatic profile.
- Tongs
Useful for turning chicken pieces during stir-fry to ensure even cooking and easy handling.
| Equipment | Purpose | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Wok or Large Skillet | Stir-frying chicken and vegetables | Essential |
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating and mixing sauces | Essential |
| Measuring Spoons and Cups | Accurate ingredient measurement | Essential |
| Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board | Slicing and chopping | Essential |
| Spatula or Wooden Spoon | Stirring and tossing | Essential |
| Small Whisk | Mixing sauce smoothly | Recommended |
| Garlic Press | Minced garlic preparation | Optional |
| Tongs | Handling chicken during stir-fry | Optional |
Tip: Using a wok heated to high temperature is key for achieving the authentic char and tenderness characteristic of the House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix.
Having this equipment ready before starting will streamline the cooking process and bring out the best in our bold, savory recipe.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix, thorough prep work ensures every component shines. Let’s break down the essential steps to set us up for a flawless stir-fry experience.
Preparing the Chicken
We begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized strips for quick even cooking. Using lean boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs works best.
Next, we marinate the chicken to infuse bold flavor and ensure tenderness. Combine these ingredients in a mixing bowl:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
Once mixed, toss the chicken strips in this marinade. We let it rest for at least 20 minutes to fully absorb the flavors and achieve that perfect melt-in-mouth texture.
Chopping Vegetables
Fresh vegetables add crisp texture and vibrant color to our dish. We recommend dicing or slicing the following fresh produce uniformly:
| Vegetable | Prep Details | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Bell peppers | Thinly sliced | 1 medium (red or green) |
| Carrots | Matchstick or julienne | 1 medium |
| Onion | Thin wedges | 1 small |
| Garlic | Minced | 3 cloves |
| Snap peas | Trimmed ends | 1 cup |
Uniform chopping ensures they cook evenly and retain crunch without losing moisture. Keep the garlic minced fine so it blends seamlessly into the sauce without overpowering.
Making the Sauce
Our signature sauce balances savory, sweet, and spicy notes creating the iconic flavor profile for the House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix. Here’s what we combine:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dark soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Hoisin sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Chili garlic sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Brown sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon |
We whisk these ingredients in a small bowl until the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps. This mixture will thicken beautifully during cooking yielding a glossy savory-spicy glaze.
Pro Tip: Have this sauce ready before stir-frying to toss in right at the end ensuring everything is coated evenly with that rich, house special flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to prepare our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix with bold flavors and perfect textures.
Marinating the Chicken
To ensure our chicken is tender and flavorful, we start by marinating it properly:
- Slice 1 pound of chicken breast into bite-sized strips.
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
- Toss the chicken strips thoroughly in this marinade until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Pro Tip: Marinating the chicken ahead of time helps it stay juicy and infuses a subtle depth to the dish.
Stir-Frying the Chicken
Next, we focus on getting the chicken cooked perfectly:
- Preheat a wok or large skillet over high heat until very hot.
- Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, swirling to coat the surface.
- Add the marinated chicken in a single layer without crowding.
- Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, tossing continuously until the chicken is opaque and lightly browned.
- Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside on a plate.
Cooking the Vegetables
Crisp-tender vegetables add vibrant color and texture; here’s how to perfect them:
- In the same wok, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
- Add aromatics first:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add vegetables:
- 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), julienned
- ½ cup carrots, thinly sliced
- ½ cup snap peas
- Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are bright and crisp-tender but not wilted.
Combining Chicken and Vegetables
We bring the main components together for harmony in flavor and texture:
- Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables.
- Toss everything together over high heat for 1-2 minutes to blend flavors evenly.
Adding Sauce and Finishing Touches
The signature sauce seals the deal on this House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix dish:
| Sauce Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Dark soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Hoisin sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Chili garlic sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Brown sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken broth | ¼ cup |
| Cornstarch (slurry) | 1 teaspoon + 1 tablespoon water |
- Combine all sauce ingredients (except the slurry) in a small bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken-vegetable mixture.
- Stir continuously while adding the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is glossy and coats every piece beautifully.
Final Tip: Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for the authentic Chicken Pick Up Stix experience.
Serving Suggestions
To showcase our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix at its best, serving it with complementary sides and garnishes enhances both presentation and flavor. Here are our top recommendations to complete this flavorful meal:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Fried Rice
Serving the chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed jasmine rice balances the boldness of the sauce and soaks up every bite. For a richer option, try our homemade fried rice with scrambled eggs, scallions, and peas.
- Lo Mein or Chow Mein Noodles
For noodle lovers, toss the dish with cooked lo mein or crunchy chow mein noodles. The noodles add satisfying texture and extend the meal for larger appetites.
- Freshly Chopped Green Onions and Sesame Seeds
Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top of the chicken for a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
- Sliced Fresh Red Chilies or Chili Oil
If you prefer extra heat, add thin slices of fresh red chilies or a drizzle of chili oil to elevate the spicy notes we’ve lovingly built in the sauce.
- Side of Pickled Vegetables or Asian Slaw
A crisp Asian slaw or tangy pickled cucumber salad provides a bright, palate-refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
- Classic Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls
These crunchy appetizers pair perfectly with the dish, adding a complementary balance of textures and flavors.
| Serving Option | Purpose | Suggested Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | Soaks up sauce and balances flavors | 1 cup cooked per serving |
| Lo Mein or Chow Mein | Adds texture and extends the dish | 1 cup cooked per serving |
| Green Onions & Sesame Seeds | Garnish for freshness and crunch | 1 tablespoon each garnish |
| Fresh Red Chilies or Chili Oil | Spicy heat boost | To taste |
| Pickled Vegetables / Slaw | Brightens flavor and adds texture | 1/2 cup per serving |
| Egg Rolls / Spring Rolls | Complementary appetizer with crunch | 2 pieces per person |
“For an authentic Pick Up Stix experience, always serve immediately after cooking to capture the vibrant colors and bold flavors,” we find this ensures the best texture and taste.
Pairing our House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix with these thoughtfully selected sides and garnishes creates a complete and memorable meal that delights every sense.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix in advance saves us time and helps flavors deepen for a more satisfying meal. Here are essential tips to ensure our make-ahead process goes smoothly while maintaining the dish’s signature bold and vibrant taste.
Marinate the Chicken Ahead of Time
To enhance tenderness and maximize the infusion of savory notes, marinate the chicken strips for at least 20 minutes. For best results, we can extend the marinating time up to 2 hours, or even overnight in the refrigerator. This extra time allows the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and ground white pepper to penetrate thoroughly.
| Marinating Time | Flavor Impact | Texture Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | Light flavor infusion | Slight tenderness |
| 1-2 hours | Medium flavor depth | Noticeably tender |
| Overnight | Enhanced bold flavors | Very tender, juicy |
Pro Tip: Always marinate in a non-reactive container such as glass or stainless steel to preserve flavors and prevent off-tastes.
Pre-Cut and Store Vegetables
Preparing vegetables in advance ensures a quick stir-fry later without sacrificing freshness or crunch. We recommend chopping bell peppers, carrots, onions, garlic, and snap peas uniformly and storing them in airtight containers or zip-top bags in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Keep vegetables dry by patting them with a paper towel before storing to avoid sogginess.
- Store garlic separately to prevent overpowering other vegetables.
Mix the Sauce Components in Advance
The signature sauce combines dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. We can prepare the sauce mixture up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it in a sealed container. Just before cooking, stir the sauce well to recombine any settled ingredients or thickened cornstarch.
Combine Steps for Efficient Stir-Fry Preparation
When ready to cook, we follow this streamlined approach:
- Retrieve marinated chicken and let it come to room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Grab pre-cut vegetables and sauce from the fridge.
- Stir-fry chicken quickly on high heat.
- Add vegetables to maintain crisp texture and vibrant color.
- Pour in sauce and toss until it thickly coats the ingredients.
Reminder: Serve immediately to enjoy the dish’s full aroma, texture, and bold flavors.
Implementing these make-ahead tips not only reduces last-minute prep but also gives us that authentic taste and tender texture that make House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix a standout dish.
Conclusion
House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix is a dish that brings bold flavors and satisfying textures right to our table with minimal effort. By following the recipe and prep tips, we can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
With the right ingredients and tools, this recipe fits seamlessly into our busy lives without sacrificing taste or authenticity. It’s a versatile dish that invites creativity and makes weeknight dinners or gatherings more memorable.
We encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it a staple in your kitchen. The vibrant flavors and ease of preparation will surely keep you coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix unique compared to other chicken stir-fries?
House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix features bold, savory, and slightly spicy sauces combined with tender marinated chicken and fresh, crisp stir-fry vegetables for a balanced, authentic flavor experience.
How do I ensure the chicken is tender and flavorful?
Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and ground white pepper to enhance tenderness and infuse flavor.
What sauces are used to create the signature flavor?
The sauce is made from dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, and thickened with cornstarch for a savory, sweet, and spicy blend.
Can I prepare any parts of this dish in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead, pre-cut the vegetables, and mix the sauce in advance to save time and deepen flavors.
What equipment is essential for cooking House Special Chicken Pick Up Stix?
A wok or large skillet, mixing bowls, measuring spoons, a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, and a spatula or wooden spoon are essential for best results.
How do I get the authentic char and flavor in the chicken?
Use a high-temperature wok or skillet to quickly stir-fry the chicken, which locks in moisture and creates the desired char and tenderness.
What vegetables are best to use for this recipe?
Bell peppers, carrots, onions, garlic, and snap peas provide bright color, crunch, and a fresh taste that complements the chicken and sauce.
How should I serve this dish for the best experience?
Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or noodles, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and optional fresh chilies for extra heat.
What are some good side dishes to pair with this meal?
Pair the dish with classic appetizers like egg rolls or spring rolls, and consider a side of pickled vegetables or Asian slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Will marinating the chicken longer improve the dish?
Yes, marinating for longer than 20 minutes intensifies the flavor and tenderness, making the chicken even more delicious.