Chinese Chicken

Easy Chinese Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Delight

If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen, this Chinese Chicken recipe is just what you need. With its tender chicken pieces coated in a savory sauce and a hint of sweetness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of this simple yet flavorful recipe that can be prepared in under an hour!

The Allure of Chinese Chicken

Chinese chicken dishes are beloved for their vibrant flavors and textures. This particular recipe combines marinated chicken with a delightful sauce that balances sweet and savory notes. Whether you serve it over rice or noodles, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in about 30-40 minutes.
• Flavorful: The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making each bite delicious.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon dry sherry
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh garlic
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Chicken:

• Two pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces.
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large ziplock bag, combine all marinade ingredients: dry sherry, oyster sauce, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake gently to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 4 hours; overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare for Cooking

1. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
2. In one shallow dish, whisk the eggs. In another dish, combine flour and cornstarch.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, warm approximately ¼ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Working in batches, dip each piece of marinated chicken into the egg mixture, then coat it with the flour mixture.
3. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes per batch.
4. Utilize a slotted spoon to move the fried chicken onto a plate covered with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In another skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat.
2. Add chopped onions (optional) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in ketchup, chicken broth, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly with the sauce.
2. Continue cooking for another minute or two until all ingredients are warmed thoroughly.

Serving Suggestions

This Chinese Chicken can be served in various ways:

• Over Rice: Serve it atop steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
• With Noodles: Pair it with lo mein or chow mein for an Asian-inspired feast.
• Garnish: Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for Success

• Marination Time: For best results, allow the chicken to marinate overnight; this enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Sauce Variations: Adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar or honey if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Chicken recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor that will transport you straight to your favorite Chinese restaurant without leaving your home! This Chinese Chicken is ideal for hectic weeknights or when you wish to wow your guests without much hassle.

So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to delight everyone at your table!