Introduction
This delicious chicken dish is packed with flavor and is relatively quick to prepare. The combination of tender chicken breasts with a spicy, sweet sauce creates a delightful balance that is sure to please anyone at the dinner table. With a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the hassle.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken:
– 500g / 1lb skinless, boneless chicken breast fillets (2 large)
– 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper
– 1 1/2 tablespoons rice flour or all-purpose/plain flour
– 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
Sauce:
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 2 teaspoons ginger, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for spiciness)
– 1/2 cup water
– 3 tablespoons sriracha (substitute with ketchup for less spice)
– 1 tablespoon light or all-purpose soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
– 3 tablespoons lime juice (or 2 tablespoons rice vinegar)
Garnishes (optional):
– Green onions, finely sliced
– Sesame seeds
– Fresh chili slices
– Lime wedges
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 2-4
This recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, and the vibrant flavors of the sauce elevate the dish to a new level. Enjoy your cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
1. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four thin steaks.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Lightly coat each piece with rice flour, shaking off any excess.
Cook the Chicken:
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat.
5. Add the chicken and cook for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
7. Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add sesame oil.
8. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about 15 seconds.
9. Add chili flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
10. Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in water, sriracha, soy sauce, and honey.
11. Stir well, scraping the skillet to incorporate any browned bits.
12. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.
13. Add lime juice and simmer for another 30 seconds until the sauce thickens again.
Combine and Serve:
14. Turn off the heat and return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating each piece thoroughly with the sauce.
15. Serve the chicken topped with any remaining sauce from the skillet.
16. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, fresh chili slices, and lime wedges as desired.
Notes
Chicken Preparation:
Make sure to slice the chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
Cooking Temperature:
Ensure that the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear.
Adjusting Spice Levels:
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference.
Sauce Consistency:
If the sauce does not thicken as desired, simmer it a little longer.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Preparing Chicken
Slice chicken breast horizontally to create thin steaks for even cooking. Season well with salt and pepper, then lightly coat in rice flour to enhance crispiness.
Cooking Chicken
Use high heat in a large skillet with oil to achieve a golden brown exterior quickly. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can result in steaming rather than searing.
Preparing the Sauce
Sauté garlic and ginger in sesame oil for a fragrant base. Add chili flakes to enhance spiciness. Incorporate the remaining sauce ingredients and allow to simmer until it achieves a syrupy consistency.
Combining and Serving
After the sauce thickens, return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result, but adjust cooking times as they may take longer.
What can I substitute for sriracha?
Ketchup can be used for less spice, or you can choose another hot sauce according to your preference.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Feel free to modify the amount of honey or brown sugar to suit your taste. Start with a smaller amount and increase as needed.
Can I make this dish in advance?
While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before tossing with freshly cooked chicken.
What are some good garnishes for this dish?
Green onions, sesame seeds, fresh chili slices, and lime wedges all make excellent garnishes that add flavor and visual appeal.
Conclusion
This chicken dish combines a delightful balance of flavors, with the savory richness of the sauce enhancing the tender chicken. The optional garnishes add an extra layer of freshness and texture, making this recipe a versatile meal choice that can easily be adjusted for spice preferences and favorite ingredients.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Replace the honey with pineapple juice and add bell peppers and pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy dish.
Chicken Teriyaki
Substitute the sriracha and lime juice with teriyaki sauce for a Japanese-inspired variation.
Spicy Garlic Chicken
Increase the amount of chili flakes and add sliced bell peppers to the sauté for an extra kick.
Honey Mustard Chicken
Use honey and add a tablespoon of mustard to the sauce for a delicious honey mustard flavor.
Asian Chicken Salad
Serve the coated chicken over mixed greens, topped with sesame seeds, and drizzled with the sauce for a refreshing salad.
Coconut Curry Chicken
Incorporate coconut milk into the sauce for a creamy and aromatic curry chicken dish.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Shred the cooked chicken, mix with the sauce, and serve on slider buns with coleslaw for a fun and casual meal.
