Ready to whip up something delicious? Check out these 10 best wok recipes! You'll love the Stir-Fry Chicken Lo Mein, with tender chicken and veggies all tangled up with lo mein noodles. How about some Easy Fried Rice to rescue that leftover chicken? Sweet-and-Sour Pork mixes pork and pineapple for a taste explosion. For a quick treat, try a Chicken Poke Bowl or immerse yourself in a flavorful Steak Stir-Fry. Don't miss out on Thai Shrimp with Peanut Sauce or that crispy General Tso's Chicken. Each dish is a flavor-packed adventure you can conquer easily—let's get cooking!
Main Points
- Explore quick and easy stir-fry recipes like Chicken Lo Mein and Fried Rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Experiment with protein options, substituting chicken, pork, or tofu in recipes like Mongolian Beef and Cashew Chicken.
- Incorporate fresh vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor in dishes like Sweet-and-Sour Pork and Thai Shrimp with Peanut Sauce.
- Utilize various sauces and seasonings to customize flavor in popular dishes such as General Tso's Chicken and Steak Stir-Fry.
- Serve wok dishes with steamed rice or quinoa, and consider garnishes like green onions for added visual appeal.
Stir-Fry Chicken Lo Mein
Stir-Fry Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked lo mein noodles, all enveloped in a savory sauce. This dish isn't only quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also allows for flexibility in ingredient choices, permitting you to cater to your family's preferences or whatever you have on hand.
With a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
In addition to being a family favorite, Stir-Fry Chicken Lo Mein is an excellent option for entertaining guests. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas make it visually appealing and delicious, guaranteeing it will be a hit at any gathering.
Plus, with a step-by-step video guide available, even novice cooks can effortlessly whip up this satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
To cook the Stir-Fry Chicken Lo Mein, start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions and set aside.
In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Then, add the cooked noodles to the pan along with the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Extra Tips: When making Stir-Fry Chicken Lo Mein, feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bok choy based on your preference or what's in season.
To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce. For a richer flavor, marinating the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for about 15-30 minutes before cooking can improve the taste.
Easy Fried Rice
Easy Fried Rice is a delicious and convenient dish that brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant right into your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken, making it not only tasty but also a great way to reduce food waste. With a preparation and cooking time of just around 30 minutes, you can whip this up on a busy weeknight, guaranteeing a satisfying meal for yourself and your family.
One of the secrets to achieving that perfect texture in fried rice is to use stale rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together, resulting in a less desirable consistency. If you don't have leftover rice, you can cook some ahead of time and let it cool in the refrigerator for a few hours.
The versatility of Easy Fried Rice allows you to customize the dish by adding your choice of vegetables and proteins, making it a great way to clean out your fridge while enjoying a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups stale cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Push the eggs to one side of the pan and add the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken, stirring until heated through.
Next, add the stale rice, breaking up any clumps as you mix everything together. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice, stirring well to guarantee even distribution. Finally, add the sliced green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated throughout.
When making Easy Fried Rice, using day-old rice is essential for achieving the right texture. If you don't have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet, and refrigerate it for a few hours to allow it to dry out.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, and proteins such as shrimp or tofu to suit your taste. For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or ginger into the stir-fry. Enjoy your homemade fried rice as a delightful side dish or a satisfying main course!
Sweet-and-Sour Pork
Sweet-and-Sour Pork is a beloved dish that perfectly balances flavors, transporting you back to joyful family gatherings and comforting meals. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also adds a pop of color to the dining table with its vibrant mix of ingredients. The combination of tender pork, crunchy bell peppers, and sweet pineapple, all enveloped in a tangy sauce, creates a delightful experience that's hard to resist.
Making Sweet-and-Sour Pork at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking technique, you can whip up this dish in no time. It's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with family and friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce to suit your palate, ensuring that every bite is just right for you.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red and green)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To cook the Sweet-and-Sour Pork, begin by marinating the sliced pork in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper for about 15 minutes.
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until it's browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the pork from the wok and set aside.
In the same wok, add the onion and bell peppers, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until they're slightly tender but still crisp. Then, return the pork to the wok along with the pineapple chunks.
In a separate bowl, combine ketchup, vinegar, and sugar to create the sauce, and pour it over the pork and vegetables. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.
When cooking Sweet-and-Sour Pork, consider using fresh, seasonal ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as snap peas or carrots, to add variety.
For a thicker sauce, you can mix a bit more cornstarch with water and add it to the dish during the final cooking stages. Serve the dish over steamed rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce, making it a complete meal that everyone will love.
Quick Chicken Poke Bowl
Quick Chicken Poke Bowl
If you're on the lookout for a fresh and delicious meal that won't take up too much of your time, the Quick Chicken Poke Bowl is the perfect solution. This creative twist on the traditional poke bowl features tender chicken as the primary protein, making it a great alternative for those who may not have access to sushi-grade fish.
With its vibrant mix of fresh toppings and flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while still being budget-friendly. Preparation is a breeze with this recipe, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet fulfilling.
You can easily customize your bowl with your favorite toppings, whether it's creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a balanced meal that includes protein, vegetables, and grains.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: seaweed salad, pickled ginger, or radishes
To prepare the Quick Chicken Poke Bowl, start by cooking the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Remove from heat, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing to coat.
In serving bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by the marinated chicken, and top with avocado, cucumber, green onions, and sesame seeds.
For an even more enjoyable experience, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes in the soy sauce and sesame oil mixture before cooking to improve the flavors.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with the toppings based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences; this dish is versatile and can accommodate a variety of ingredients.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Quick Chicken Poke Bowl!
Steak Stir-Fry
Steak stir-fry is a flavorful and quick-to-prepare dish that showcases the rich taste of tender steak combined with vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a busy weeknight or an elegant dinner party, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to fit any palate. By using frozen mixed vegetables, you save time on prep while still delivering a nutritious and colorful meal that looks as good as it tastes.
The beauty of steak stir-fry lies in its versatility. You can use various cuts of steak, such as flank, sirloin, or ribeye, depending on your preference and budget. Additionally, feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Whether served over a bed of rice or tossed with noodles, steak stir-fry is a satisfying dish that never fails to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of steak (flank, sirloin, or ribeye)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cups frozen mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
To prepare the steak stir-fry, start by slicing the steak against the grain into thin strips. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over high heat until it begins to shimmer.
Add the steak strips in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring to achieve a good sear. Once browned, stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they're heated through. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, and if desired, mix in cornstarch for a thicker sauce. Toss everything together and cook for another minute until well combined. Serve the stir-fry hot over rice or noodles.
When preparing steak stir-fry, remember that high heat is essential for achieving that perfect sear on the steak while keeping it juicy and tender. Make sure your wok is preheated before adding the ingredients, and work quickly to prevent overcooking.
If you want to improve the dish further, consider marinating the steak for about 30 minutes before cooking, using a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for extra flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and sauces to create your ideal stir-fry!
Cashew Chicken With Bok Choy
Cashew Chicken with Bok Choy is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant bok choy in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a quick yet delicious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
The combination of sautéed chicken and fresh vegetables not only makes it appealing to the eyes but also provides a nutritious option for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining family and friends.
The versatility of this dish allows you to pair it with your choice of rice or noodles, making it a satisfying option for any occasion. The earthiness of the bok choy complements the savory chicken and the delightful crunch of the cashews adds an exciting twist.
Whether you're a meat lover or a veggie enthusiast, Cashew Chicken with Bok Choy is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cashews
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
In a large wok or skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the sliced red bell pepper and bok choy, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, tossing everything together. Finally, add the cashews and give it one last stir to combine all the ingredients before serving over rice or noodles.
Extra Tips:
For an even more flavorful dish, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for about 15 minutes before cooking.
You can also adjust the quantity of cashews based on your preference for crunchiness. If bok choy isn't available, you can substitute it with other greens like spinach or kale.
To add a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers into the mix. Finally, confirm your wok is hot enough before adding the ingredients to achieve the best sear and flavor.
Enjoy your cooking!
Thai Shrimp With Peanut Sauce
Thai Shrimp with Peanut Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of Key West pink shrimp with a rich and creamy peanut sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, as it can be prepared in just about 30 minutes.
The combination of fresh vegetables, peanut butter, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful experience that will please seafood lovers and anyone who enjoys a hearty meal.
This dish features a unique blend of ingredients that not only improve the taste but also provide a satisfying texture. The fresh ginger and red pepper flakes give the sauce an aromatic kick, balancing the sweetness of the peanut butter with a hint of spice.
When served over pasta, the savory sauce clings to the noodles, making each bite a delicious delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Key West pink shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they're tender-crisp.
Next, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, broth, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables, stirring to combine.
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the wok and toss everything together until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
When preparing this dish, consider adjusting the spice level to your preference by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.
You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or in season—snap peas, zucchini, or bok choy work wonderfully as well.
For an extra layer of flavor, you can top the dish with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds. Enjoy your Thai Shrimp with Peanut Sauce as a delicious weeknight meal or a special dish for entertaining!
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Vegetable stir-fry is a delightful and nutritious dish that offers endless possibilities for creativity in the kitchen. With its vibrant colors and a medley of textures, this dish encourages you to make the most of seasonal produce.
Whether you're using bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots, the beauty of vegetable stir-fry lies in its flexibility. You can tailor the recipe according to what you have on hand, reducing food waste while enjoying a delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time.
Quick cooking methods like stir-frying aren't only convenient but also help to lock in the nutrients of the vegetables, making this an ideal choice for a healthy lifestyle. A well-seasoned wok is key to achieving the perfect stir-fry, allowing the vegetables to cook evenly without sticking.
By adding a flavorful sauce, you can improve the profile of this dish, creating a satisfying meal that can also accommodate various dietary preferences with the addition of proteins like tofu or shrimp.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (or teriyaki sauce for a vegetarian option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: protein (e.g., tofu, chicken, shrimp)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Heat the vegetable oil in a well-seasoned wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Then, add your mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they're crisp-tender. If you're adding a protein, include it at this stage and cook until done.
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, tossing everything together to confirm the vegetables are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Extra Tips:
To achieve the best results, make sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a quick process.
Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to confirm even cooking. If you want to add some crunch, consider tossing in some nuts or seeds at the end of cooking.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different sauces or spices to create a flavor profile that suits your palate – the possibilities are endless!
General Tso's Chicken
General Tso's Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that has become a beloved staple in Chinese-American cuisine. This dish combines crispy, battered chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy sauce, making it a favorite for many. Traditionally served over steamed rice, General Tso's Chicken can be an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Despite its popularity, the dish's origins remain a bit of a mystery, adding an intriguing layer to its already rich history.
Creating this dish at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can replicate the mouthwatering flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right in your own kitchen. Whether you're cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger for about 30 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and flour.
After marinating, dip the chicken pieces into the egg and then coat them in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the chicken and set it aside on paper towels to drain excess oil. In another pan, combine the sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili paste, stirring until well mixed and heated through. Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Extra Tips:
For a healthier version, you can bake or air-fry the chicken instead of frying it. Simply toss the coated chicken pieces with a little oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Additionally, feel free to customize the sauce by adjusting the sweetness or spiciness according to your taste preference. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables, following the same cooking method for a delicious alternative.
Mongolian Beef
Mongolian Beef is a deliciously rich dish that combines tender strips of beef with a sweet and savory sauce, making it a favorite among many. Originating from the Chinese-American culinary tradition, this dish is quick to make and is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
The key to achieving that delightful sticky glaze lies in the balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic, which coats the beef and mingles beautifully with the green onions.
To prepare Mongolian Beef, you'll want to have all your ingredients ready and your wok heated up. Flank steak is a popular choice for this recipe due to its tenderness when cooked quickly over high heat. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice to soak up the luscious sauce, and feel free to customize the recipe by adding in your choice of vegetables or alternative proteins for a personalized twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated (optional)
- Steamed rice for serving
In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch until it's well coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a wok over high heat, then add the beef and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
In the same wok, add the garlic and ginger, stirring briefly before adding the soy sauce and brown sugar. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, then return the beef to the wok along with the chopped green onions. Stir to combine and heat through, making sure the beef is well coated in the sticky sauce.
For the best results, slice the flank steak against the grain to guarantee tenderness. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the sauce.
Additionally, feel free to increase the amount of garlic for a more robust flavor or toss in some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.
Enjoy your Mongolian Beef with perfectly steamed rice, and don't forget to savor the delightful balance of flavors in every bite!