Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a popular dish that belongs to the Chinese cuisine, known for its bold and vibrant flavors. This dish is characterized by its unique combination of tender chicken pieces smothered in a rich garlic-infused sauce. It is a delicious and satisfying meal that is often enjoyed with steamed rice or noodles.
One of the peculiarities of Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce is the prominent use of garlic, which adds a distinct and pungent flavor to the dish. The garlic is typically minced or finely chopped, allowing it to release its aromatic oils and infuse the sauce with its intense taste. This gives the dish a strong and savory profile that is loved by garlic enthusiasts.
Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce is cooked by stir-frying marinated chicken pieces until they are cooked through and tender. The sauce, made from a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and other seasonings, is then added to the chicken and simmered until it thickens and coats the chicken pieces. This cooking method ensures that the flavors are well-distributed throughout the dish, resulting in a harmonious blend of tastes.
The taste of Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a delightful balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors. The soy sauce provides a savory umami taste, while the sugar adds a touch of sweetness to counterbalance the saltiness. The vinegar contributes a tangy note that enhances the overall taste profile. The aroma of this dish is equally enticing, with the strong fragrance of garlic permeating the air as it cooks.
In terms of texture, Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce offers a pleasing contrast. The chicken pieces are tender and succulent, while the sauce has a smooth and velvety consistency. This combination creates a satisfying mouthfeel that is both comforting and enjoyable.
Apart from its delicious taste and texture, Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce also offers several features and usefulness. Firstly, garlic is known for its numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, this dish is a great source of protein from the chicken, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The flavorsome sauce can also be customized to suit individual preferences, allowing for variations in spiciness or sweetness. Overall, Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a versatile and wholesome dish that is loved by many for its bold flavors and nutritional value.
Cooking equipment
- A sharp knife for slicing the chicken breast into thin strips.
- A cutting board to provide a stable surface for cutting the chicken and other ingredients.
- A wok or a large skillet to stir-fry the chicken and garlic sauce.
- A spatula or a pair of tongs to toss and turn the chicken while cooking.
- A garlic press to easily crush garlic cloves for the flavorful sauce.
- A measuring cup to accurately measure the ingredients for the sauce.
- A whisk or a fork to mix the ingredients for the garlic sauce until well combined.
- A small bowl or dish to marinate the chicken in a delicious blend of soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch.
- A medium-sized bowl to soak the dried red chili peppers in hot water before adding them to the dish.
- A ladle or a spoon to carefully pour the garlic sauce over the cooked chicken.
- A serving platter or individual plates to present the Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce in an appetizing way.
- Optional: A mortar and pestle to grind the dried red chili peppers into a fine powder for extra spiciness.
- Optional: A vegetable peeler to remove the skin from fresh ginger before mincing it for added flavor.
- Optional: A sieve or strainer to strain the soaked chili peppers from the water before adding them to the dish.
- Optional: A grater or zester to grate some fresh lime zest as a garnish for a tangy twist.
Ingredients
- For the chicken marinade:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- For the garlic sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- For the stir-fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ½ cup sliced onions
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- ½ cup sliced carrots
- ½ cup broccoli florets
- Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Recipe Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- This delightful dish hails from the vibrant and diverse nation of China.
- Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a tantalizing blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Beijing.
- With its bold and aromatic garlic sauce, this dish is a favorite among Chinese food enthusiasts worldwide.
- Preparing this delectable chicken dish is a breeze, with a preparation time of just 20 minutes.
- Once the ingredients are prepped and ready, it’s time to dive into the magical world of Chinese cuisine.
- The cooking process takes approximately 15 minutes, ensuring a quick and satisfying meal for those busy evenings.
- This dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks, as it allows you to experiment with flavors and spices to suit your personal taste.
- As the savory aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll be transported to the vibrant streets of China, where the hustle and bustle of daily life blends seamlessly with the rich culinary traditions.
- After just 35 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a mouthwatering Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce that is sure to impress family and friends alike.
- So gather your ingredients, sharpen your knives, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more of the bold flavors that China has to offer.
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
- Add a tablespoon of soy sauce, a tablespoon of rice wine, and a pinch of salt to the chicken. Mix well, ensuring that each piece is coated in the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- In the meantime, prepare the garlic sauce. Mince four cloves of garlic and set them aside.
- In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of soy sauce, two tablespoons of oyster sauce, one tablespoon of hoisin sauce, one tablespoon of rice vinegar, and one teaspoon of sugar. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
- Heat a wok or a large skillet over high heat. Add two tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken to the wok. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
- Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Return the wok to the heat and add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the minced garlic to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
- Pour the garlic sauce mixture into the wok and stir well to combine with the garlic.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for another minute or two until it thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the wok and toss it in the garlic sauce until each piece is evenly coated.
- Continue to stir-fry for an additional minute or two to ensure the chicken is heated through and fully coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle some chopped green onions over the chicken for a fresh and aromatic touch.
- Transfer the Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve hot alongside steamed rice or noodles for a delicious and satisfying meal!
Nutrition
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Calories: A serving of Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal choice.
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Protein: This dish is packed with protein, providing around 25 grams per serving. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, keeping you energized and satiated throughout the day.
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Fat: Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce has a moderate fat content, with approximately 12 grams per serving. Most of the fat comes from healthy sources like vegetable oil, which adds a delicious richness to the dish.
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Carbohydrates: With about 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish offers a balanced amount of energy to fuel your activities and keep you feeling satisfied. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy.
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Fiber: Thanks to the inclusion of veggies like bell peppers and broccoli, Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce provides a good amount of dietary fiber. Fiber helps regulate digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and keeps you feeling full longer.
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Vitamins and Minerals: This delectable dish offers an array of important vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin C from bell peppers, which supports your immune system, as well as vitamin K from broccoli, which aids in blood clotting. Additionally, the garlic sauce often includes ginger, which provides a dose of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Sodium: While the sodium content can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and cooking method, Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce typically contains a moderate amount of sodium. It’s important to be mindful of sodium intake, especially for individuals with certain health conditions.
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Spices and Flavorings: The delightful flavors in this dish come from various spices and flavorings like garlic, soy sauce, and ginger. These ingredients not only enhance the taste but also offer potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and improved digestion.
Overall, Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a satisfying and nourishing dish that provides a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Its flavorsome profile will tantalize your taste buds while ensuring you receive a wholesome meal.
Ideas for serving
- Pair it with steamed white rice: The mild flavor of steamed white rice complements the bold flavors of the Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce perfectly. The fluffy texture of the rice helps to balance out the richness of the sauce, creating a delightful combination.
- Create a colorful stir-fry: Add an array of colorful vegetables to your Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce for a vibrant and nutritious meal. Sauté bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and broccoli in a hot wok until they are crisp-tender. Toss them with the chicken and sauce for a visually appealing dish that bursts with flavors.
- Wrap it in lettuce cups: For a fun twist on traditional serving methods, serve your Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce in crisp lettuce cups. Spoon the chicken into the center of large lettuce leaves, add some crunchy bean sprouts or shredded carrots, and drizzle extra sauce on top. This refreshing and light presentation is perfect for a summer meal or as an appetizer.
- Make it a filling for dumplings: Use the Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce as a delicious filling for homemade dumplings. Roll out thin dumpling wrappers, place a teaspoonful of the chicken mixture in the center, fold and seal the edges, then steam or pan-fry until golden. Serve these little pockets of flavor with a side of soy dipping sauce for an impressive and satisfying meal.
- Turn it into a noodle dish: Combine your Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce with stir-fried noodles for a delightful one-pot meal. Choose thin rice noodles or egg noodles and toss them with the chicken and sauce until well-coated. Add some sautéed vegetables or garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra visual appeal.
- Stuff it in fluffy bao buns: Fill fluffy steamed bao buns with your Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce for a delightful handheld treat. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of a split bao bun, top it with some pickled vegetables or cucumber slices, and enjoy the combination of the soft and pillowy bun with the flavorful chicken.
- Serve it with a side of tangy pickles: Counterbalance the richness of the Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce by serving it with tangy pickles on the side. Prepare quick pickles by thinly slicing cucumbers, radishes, or carrots and marinating them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. The refreshing acidity of the pickles will cut through the richness of the sauce and provide a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Pair it with a side of steamed bok choy: Steamed bok choy makes a simple yet delicious side dish for Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce. The tender-crisp texture and subtle bitterness of the bok choy perfectly complement the savory flavors of the chicken. Steam the bok choy until just wilted, then drizzle it with a bit of sesame oil and soy sauce for added depth of flavor.
- Enjoy it with a cup of hot jasmine tea: Accompany your Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce with a steaming cup of fragrant jasmine tea. The floral notes of the tea will cleanse your palate between bites, allowing you to savor the complex flavors of the dish. The combination of the savory chicken and aromatic tea creates a harmonious dining experience that is both comforting and delightful.
Storing the dish
Instructions for Storing Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce:
- After enjoying your delicious Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce, you may find yourself with leftovers that you wish to store for later use. Follow these simple steps to ensure your dish stays fresh and flavorful:
- Cooling: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before proceeding with the storage process. This will help prevent condensation and maintain the dish’s texture.
- Divide and Conquer: If you have a large quantity of leftovers, consider dividing them into smaller portions. This will make it easier to reheat only what you need, reducing waste and preserving the taste.
- Proper Containers: Choose airtight containers or sealable plastic bags to store your Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce. This will prevent any unwanted odors from infiltrating your flavorful dish and keep it fresh for longer. If using plastic bags, make sure to squeeze out any excess air before sealing.
- Labeling: Avoid any confusion by labeling each container or bag with the date of storage. This will help you keep track of how long the dish has been stored and ensure you consume it within a safe timeframe.
- Refrigeration: Place your properly sealed containers in the refrigerator as soon as possible after cooking. The cool temperature will slow down bacterial growth and preserve the taste and quality of the dish.
- Freezing: If you anticipate not consuming the leftovers within a few days, freezing is an excellent option. Transfer the Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen leftovers can be safely stored for around three months while still maintaining their deliciousness.
- Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results. To reheat, you can either use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, gently warm the dish over medium heat while stirring occasionally until heated through. If using a microwave, place the dish in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until thoroughly heated.
- Serving Suggestions: Once reheated, serve your delicious Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce over a bed of steamed rice or alongside some freshly cooked noodles. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or garnish with chopped green onions to enhance the presentation and flavor.
- Enjoy: Sit back, relax, and savor the amazing flavors of your stored Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce. Whether it’s a quick weekday dinner or a delightful weekend lunch, this dish is sure to bring joy to your taste buds!
