Ginger Chicken
Ginger Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite in many households. With tender strips of chicken coated in a deliciously zesty sauce, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Ginger Chicken brings warmth and comfort to your table. Let’s dive into the details of this fantastic dish that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
Top Reasons to Make Ginger Chicken
Ginger Chicken is a fantastic dish for several reasons:
1. **Quick and Easy**: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
2. **Flavorful**: The combination of ginger, garlic, and honey creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
3. **Versatile**: You can serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables, making it adaptable to your meal preferences.
4. **Healthy**: Packed with protein and using minimal oil for frying, this dish is a healthier choice for your dinner table.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make this delicious Ginger Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into thin long strips)
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions (chopped, optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
- Large mixing bowl – for preparing the chicken and batter.
- Frying pan or wok – for frying the chicken strips.
- Whisk – for beating the eggs and mixing the batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula or tongs – for flipping the chicken while frying.
- Paper towels – for draining excess oil after frying.
Make Ginger Chicken: A Simple Method
Follow these steps to create your Ginger Chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, ground ginger, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Add the chicken strips to the dry mixture and toss until they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Beat the Eggs
In another bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined.
Step 4: Dip and Fry
Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Dip each coated chicken strip into the beaten eggs, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, minced fresh ginger, and minced garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once all the chicken is cooked, add it to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it simmer for another minute or two.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your Ginger Chicken over steamed rice or noodles!
Smart Substitutions
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to mix things up a bit, here are some smart substitutions:
- Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
To ensure your Ginger Chicken turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for the best results.
- Not heating the oil enough can cause the chicken to absorb too much oil, making it greasy. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of chicken; it should sizzle immediately.
- Skipping the sauce simmering step may result in a less flavorful dish. Allow the sauce to meld for the best taste.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers (if they last that long!), here are some tips for storing:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.
Quick Q&A
Can I make Ginger Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just combine and heat when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Ginger Chicken?
Ginger Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I customize the spice level?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. For a milder version, simply reduce these ingredients.
Is it possible to make Ginger Chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the chicken strips at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through, flipping halfway. This will reduce the amount of oil used.
You Might Also Like
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love:
- Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs With Rice
- Sticky Orange Ginger Chicken With Sesame Rice
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Gnocchi
Serve & Enjoy
Ginger Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings flavors together beautifully. The warmth of the ginger, the sweetness of the honey, and the savory notes from the soy sauce create a dish that is sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it hot, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!
Enjoy the delightful taste of Ginger Chicken and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire. This dish is bound to become a favorite, bringing smiles and satisfaction to your dining table!
Share on Pinterest
Ginger Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, ground ginger, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Add the chicken strips to the dry mixture and toss until they are evenly coated.
- In another bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined.
- Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Dip each coated chicken strip into the beaten eggs, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is frying, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, minced fresh ginger, and minced garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once all the chicken is cooked, add it to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it simmer for another minute or two.
- If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your Ginger Chicken over steamed rice or noodles!
Notes
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
- Test the oil temperature by dropping in a small piece of chicken; it should sizzle immediately.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for the best flavor.
