1-Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken, 1 tablespoon water, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon oil, and 1 teaspoon oyster sauce. Mix well until the liquid is fully absorbed by the chicken. This velveting technique helps tenderize the chicken and keeps it moist during cooking.

Allowing the chicken to marinate for 15-30 minutes makes a significant difference in the final texture. If you’re short on time, even 5 minutes will help, but longer is better for maximum tenderness.

2-Step 2: Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is marinating, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup water (or low sodium chicken stock), 2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, 1/4 teaspoon sugar, 1 tablespoon light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon Shaoxing wine. Make sure the cornstarch is completely dissolved to prevent lumpy sauce later.

3-Step 3: Cook the Chicken: Heat a wok over high heat until it begins to smoke. Add 1 tablespoon of neutral oil and carefully spread the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 30 seconds to develop a nice brown color, then stir-fry for another 30 seconds until about 75% cooked. Remove the partially cooked chicken and set aside.

4-Step 4: Cook the Asparagus: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok, then add the minced garlic and cook for just 15 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Add the asparagus pieces and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the additional 1/4 teaspoon Shaoxing wine and continue stir-frying for another 30 seconds.

5-Step 5: Combine and Thicken: Giving the sauce mixture another quick whisk (cornstarch settles quickly), pour it into the wok with the asparagus. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly.

6-Step 6: Finish the Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the wok and stir everything together. Continue stir-frying for about 30 seconds until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon and the asparagus reaches a crisp-tender state. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

Serve immediately over steamed rice for a complete meal. The entire cooking process takes just 5 minutes once you’ve prepped everything!