Spicy Garlic Chicken

why make this recipe

Spicy Garlic Chicken Dish is a perfect choice if you’re looking for something bold and flavorful. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic garlic and ginger, creating a delightful dish that packs a punch. It’s an excellent way to bring excitement to your dinner table without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, the sweet and spicy marinade is easy to prepare and can be adjusted to your taste.

how to make Spicy Garlic Chicken Dish

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon of chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic and ginger.
2. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chili paste to the bowl. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
3. Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or longer for enhanced flavor).
6. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up.
7. Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet.
8. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it.
9. Flip the chicken thighs over, reduce the heat to medium, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
10. Optionally, pour any remaining marinade over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.
11. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes.
12. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté any leftover garlic and ginger from the marinade for about 1 minute.
13. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.
14. Stir in an additional tablespoon of soy sauce and honey, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
15. Slice the rested chicken thighs into strips or leave them whole.
16. Arrange the chicken on a serving platter or individual plates.
17. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the chicken.
18. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
19. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

how to serve Spicy Garlic Chicken Dish

Serve the Spicy Garlic Chicken Dish hot, drizzled with the savory sauce, and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh garden salad. Adding some sautéed vegetables on the side can also enhance the meal and add more color to your plate.

how to store Spicy Garlic Chicken Dish

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should be good for about 3-4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Spicy Garlic Chicken Dish

• For more heat, add extra chili paste or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Marinating the chicken for a longer time (up to 24 hours) can enhance the flavor even more.
• Use fresh herbs or spices to complement the dish, like cilantro or basil, if you enjoy experimenting.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking to get a nice sear on the chicken.

variation

You can customize this dish by using other proteins like shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Additionally, feel free to add different vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, while cooking for a complete meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they might cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level depends on the amount of chili paste and red pepper flakes you use. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day before and cook it when you’re ready to serve. Just store the chicken in the marinade in the fridge until you are ready to cook.

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