Ginger Chicken
If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances flavor, texture, and ease of preparation, then look no further than Ginger Chicken. This delightful dish takes tender chicken breast strips, coats them in a crunchy batter, and tosses them in a sweet and savory sauce that’s infused with the warmth of ginger and garlic. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Ginger Chicken is a fantastic dish that appeals to a wide variety of palates. The tender chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the sauce adds a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Additionally, the use of fresh ginger and garlic elevates this dish, making it not just tasty, but also aromatic. The option to add chili flakes provides a customizable heat level, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy it just the way they like.
Ingredient Notes
- 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into thin long strips) – This is the star of the dish, providing protein and a tender texture.
- 2 large eggs – Used for binding the flour and cornstarch to the chicken, giving it a crispy exterior.
- Vegetable oil (for frying) – Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional) – Adds a nutty flavor and a little crunch when sprinkled on top.
- 2 green onions (chopped, optional) – A fresh garnish that brightens the dish.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the coating for the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps to create a light and crispy texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Compliments the fresh ginger and adds depth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Essential for seasoning the dish.
- ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste) – Adds a hint of spice.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Provides sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium) – Forms the base of the sauce, giving it that classic umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce – Adds a kick of heat and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced) – Brightens the sauce with its vibrant flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon pepper – For seasoning the sauce.
Equipment Breakdown
- Large frying pan or wok – Essential for frying the chicken to a crisp perfection.
- Mixing bowls – For combining the coating ingredients and sauce.
- Whisk – To beat the eggs and mix the dry ingredients.
- Tongs or spatula – For flipping the chicken while frying.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Paper towels – For draining excess oil from the fried chicken.
Ginger Chicken Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin long strips. This helps them cook evenly and ensures they absorb the flavors of the coating and sauce.
Step 2: Create the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, ground ginger, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are combined.
Step 3: Beat the Eggs
In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them until well beaten. This will serve as the adhesive for your chicken coating.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or wok, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that when you drop a little bit of the batter in, it sizzles.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken strips in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip them for even cooking.
Step 7: Drain and Set Aside
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 8: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, sriracha, minced fresh ginger, minced garlic, and pepper. This sauce will bring all the flavors together.
Step 9: Combine Chicken and Sauce
In the pan you used for frying, reduce the heat to low. Add the fried chicken strips and pour the sauce over them. Toss gently to ensure that all the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation. Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Seasonal Serving Ideas
- Serve over jasmine rice for a light and fragrant meal.
- Pair with steamed broccoli and carrots for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Use as a filling for lettuce wraps during warmer months.
- Top with pickled vegetables for added tanginess.
Testing Timeline
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Ginger Chicken can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the chicken and fry it, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toss it in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. The sauce can also be prepared in advance and stored separately.
- Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, coated chicken strips. When ready to use, fry them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to retain crispiness.
Quick Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used! They will add a richer flavor and remain juicy during cooking.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you need a substitute, you can use tamari or a coconut aminos for a similar flavor profile.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Increase the amount of sriracha sauce or add more red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
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Final Thoughts
Ginger Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its crispy texture and savory sauce, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part is that it’s easy to make and packed with flavors that everyone will love. Try this recipe out, and you’ll find it becoming a staple in your kitchen!
Ginger Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin long strips. This helps them cook evenly and ensures they absorb the flavors of the coating and sauce.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, ground ginger, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are combined.
- In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them until well beaten. This will serve as the adhesive for your chicken coating.
- Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- In a large frying pan or wok, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that when you drop a little bit of the batter in, it sizzles.
- Carefully place the coated chicken strips in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip them for even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, sriracha, minced fresh ginger, minced garlic, and pepper. This sauce will bring all the flavors together.
- In the pan you used for frying, reduce the heat to low. Add the fried chicken strips and pour the sauce over them. Toss gently to ensure that all the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
- If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation. Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Notes
- Make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately for quicker preparation.
- For added crunch, consider adding more sesame seeds as a garnish.
- This dish pairs excellently with jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables.
