How to Velvet Chicken for Perfectly Tender Stir-Fry

Name: How to Velvet Chicken for Perfectly Tender Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 14 oz boneless skinless chicken breast; 2.5 tbsp water; 2 tsp soy sauce; 2 tsp cornstarch; 2 tsp vegetable oil

Master the essential Chinese culinary secret to achieving incredibly silky and tender meat in your stir-fries. This simple velveting technique protects the chicken from high heat, ensuring it stays juicy and restaurant-quality every time.

Servings4 Portions

Prep Time15 Mins

Cook Time5 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

boneless skinless chicken breast
14 oz
water
2.5 tbsp
soy sauce
2 tsp
cornstarch
2 tsp
vegetable oil
2 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken by slicing it into 1.5 to 2-inch pieces, approximately 1/4 inch thick. For the most tender results, ensure you are slicing across the grain, which is particularly important when using chicken breast.

Place the sliced chicken in a medium mixing bowl. Add the water and soy sauce (or oyster sauce for a deeper flavor) and toss thoroughly until the meat is well-coated. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes; you will notice the chicken absorbs most of the liquid during this time.

Add the cornstarch and vegetable oil to the bowl. Mix again until the cornstarch is fully incorporated and creates a smooth, uniform coating around each piece of chicken. For optimal texture, allow the chicken to marinate for another 15 to 20 minutes.

To cook using the searing method: Heat a wok over high heat until it begins to smoke lightly. Add a few tablespoons of vegetable oil to coat the surface, then arrange the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 20 seconds, then stir-fry just until the exterior turns opaque. Remove immediately from the wok.

To cook using the water-blanching method: Bring a wok or pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the marinated chicken. Once the meat turns opaque, cook for just 10 more seconds. The chicken should be about 80% cooked through. Drain and remove from the heat.