Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry
I still remember the first time I tried Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry at a small restaurant in the city. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and savory sauce was love at first bite. As a home cook, I was determined to recreate this dish in my own kitchen. After weeks of experimentation, I finally perfected the recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you.
This Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry recipe is a staple in my household, and I make it at least once a week. It's perfect for a quick and easy dinner, and the best part is that it's customizable to your taste. You can adjust the level of spiciness, add your favorite vegetables, or serve it with a side of rice or noodles.
One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's a great way to use up leftover chicken. You can use cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, or cook chicken breast or thighs specifically for this recipe. The key is to make sure the chicken is cooked to 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety.
In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to give the dish its signature flavor. We'll also be adding some aromatics like garlic, ginger, and scallions to add depth and complexity to the sauce. The result is a dish that's both familiar and exotic, comforting and exciting all at once.
So if you're looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, I highly recommend giving this Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry a try. It's a dish that's sure to become a favorite, and it's perfect for anyone who loves Asian cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and customize the dish to your taste
- The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil provides a rich and savory sauce
- The garlic, ginger, and scallions add a punch of flavor and aroma
- The dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner, and can be served with a side of rice or noodles
- It's a great option for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed
Why This Recipe Works
The key to a great Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry is in the balance of flavors. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil provides a rich and savory sauce, while the garlic, ginger, and scallions add a punch of flavor. The chicken is cooked to perfection, with a tender and juicy texture that's just right.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of heat control. By cooking the chicken and vegetables in a hot skillet, we're able to achieve a nice caramelization on the outside, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This is especially important when cooking chicken, as it can quickly become dry and overcooked if not done properly.
The resting time is also crucial in this recipe. By letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving, we're allowing the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful. This is a step that's often overlooked, but it makes a big difference in the final result.
Overall, this Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry recipe is a great example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that's greater than the sum of its parts. With its balanced flavors, tender chicken, and savory sauce, it's a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The key players are chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and scallions. You can find these ingredients at most Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets.
When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items that are fresh and flavorful. For example, use fresh garlic and ginger instead of ground or powdered versions, and choose scallions that are firm and fragrant. This will make a big difference in the final result, and will help to ensure that your dish is flavorful and aromatic.
- 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessYou can use chicken breast or a combination of breast and thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauceUse a high-quality soy sauce that is low in sodium and has a rich, savory flavor. You can also use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauceOyster sauce is a key ingredient in this recipe, and provides a rich, savory flavor. If you don't have oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and sugar.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oilSesame oil is used to add flavor and aroma to the dish. Use a high-quality sesame oil that is pure and has a strong nutty flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic instead of ground or powdered garlic for the best flavor. You can also use more or less garlic to taste.
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, gratedFresh ginger is a key ingredient in this recipe, and provides a warm, spicy flavor. Use a high-quality ginger that is firm and fragrant.
- 2 scallions, choppedScallions are used to add flavor and aroma to the dish. Use fresh scallions instead of dried or powdered scallions for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup chicken brothChicken broth is used to add moisture and flavor to the dish. You can use low-sodium chicken broth or make your own broth using chicken bones and vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarchCornstarch is used to thicken the sauce and provide a smooth, velvety texture. You can also use flour or tapioca starch if needed.
- Salt and pepper to tasteUse salt and pepper to taste to add flavor and seasoning to the dish. You can also use other seasonings such as sugar, chili flakes, or five-spice powder to taste.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantroCilantro is used to add flavor and aroma to the dish. Use fresh cilantro instead of dried or powdered cilantro for the best flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry
- 1Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- 2Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 F (74 C).
- 3Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 4Add the chopped scallions and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
- 5In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a boil.
- 6Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- 7Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
- 8In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water until smooth. Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- 9Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Stir in the chopped cilantro and serve hot.
- 10Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.
- 11Serve the Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry hot, garnished with additional cilantro and scallions if desired.
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
- Adjust the level of spiciness to your taste by adding more or less chili flakes.
- Use a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to add color and texture to the dish.
- Serve the dish with a side of rice or noodles to soak up the savory sauce.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.
- Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the dish your own.
- Use a wok or large skillet to cook the dish, as it allows for quick and easy stir-frying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not using high-quality ingredients, which can result in a lackluster flavor and texture.
- Not adjusting the level of spiciness to your taste, which can make the dish too hot or too bland.
- Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can result in a lack of flavor and texture.
- Not using a wok or large skillet, which can make it difficult to stir-fry the ingredients quickly and evenly.
- Not whisking the cornstarch mixture smoothly, which can result in a lumpy sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add diced bell peppers or carrots to the dish for added color and texture.
- Use different types of protein, such as beef or pork, for a variation on the dish.
- Add a splash of citrus, such as lemon or lime juice, to brighten the flavors.
- Use different types of noodles or rice, such as brown rice or soba noodles, for a change of pace.
- Add some heat to the dish by incorporating diced jalapenos or serrano peppers.
- Use a variety of spices, such as cumin or coriander, to give the dish a unique flavor.
What to Serve With Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry
This Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry is perfect for serving with a side of rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a variety of vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach. For a more substantial meal, try serving it with a side of naan bread or roti.
Some other options for serving this dish include:
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
This Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cook the dish as directed, then let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
To freeze the dish, cook it as directed, then let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the dish to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a skillet or wok over medium heat.
To reheat the dish, simply cook it in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the dish, as it can become dry and tough.
Some tips for storing and reheating this dish include:
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
You can use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for this recipe. If using thighs, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Simply thaw the chicken according to the package instructions, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
What is the best way to cook the chicken?
The best way to cook the chicken is to cook it in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the dish as directed, then let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
The best way to reheat this dish is to cook it in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is heated through.
Can I customize this recipe to my taste?
Yes, you can customize this recipe to your taste. Simply adjust the level of spiciness, add your favorite vegetables, or use different types of protein or noodles to make the dish your own.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of the soy sauce and oyster sauce to ensure that they are gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, you can make this recipe for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and cook the dish in batches if necessary.

Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 F (74 C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped scallions and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water until smooth. Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Stir in the chopped cilantro and serve hot.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Nepali Chicken Momo Stir Fry hot, garnished with additional cilantro and scallions if desired.