Are you ready to whip up a appetizing dish that will make your taste buds dance? My Ginger Chicken recipe is not just easy to make, it’s also packed with bold flavors that everyone will love! Let’s dive in and bring a little taste of China to your kitchen!

Cook Time: 30

Prep Time: 15

Yields: 4

Calories: 1641

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Ginger Chicken

When it comes to making Ginger chicken, choosing the right ingredients is key to capturing that authentic flavor profile. I love how each component brings something unique to the dish, creating a symphony of tastes that’s satisfying and nourishing.Here’s what you’ll need:

1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: Essential for umami, it gives the dish that rich, deep flavor.
2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or rice vinegar: If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, rice vinegar will work just as well to enhance the taste.
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper: This adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon tap water: Divided for different stages of the cooking process.
4 scallions, sliced: Their mild onion flavor complements the ginger and garlic perfectly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and giving it a nice sear.
1 1/2 pounds boneless,skinless chicken thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness,but you can also use breasts if you like.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: This helps bring out all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the chicken.
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh ginger: The star of the show! Fresh ginger gives the dish a vibrant kick.
2 cloves garlic, chopped: Garlic and ginger together create a wonderful aromatic flavor.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: This will help thicken the sauce,making it cling beautifully to the chicken.
Sesame seeds for garnish: A lovely finishing touch for both flavor and presentation.
2 cups cooked long-grain white rice: This is perfect for serving alongside the chicken and soaking up that delicious sauce.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to making a fantastic Ginger Chicken dish that everyone will enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Flavorful Ginger Chicken

now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this delightful Ginger Chicken. Trust me; it’s simpler than you might think!

Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl,whisk together brown sugar,soy sauce,Shaoxing wine (or rice vinegar),white pepper, and 1/2 cup of water until everything is well combined. Set this mixture aside; it’s going to be the heart of your sauce.

Slice the Scallions: Thinly slice the scallions and separate the white and light green parts from the dark green tops.We’ll use those greens for garnish later.

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.While the oil heats, sprinkle both sides of the chicken thighs with kosher salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown.

Flip and Finish Cooking: Turn the chicken over and continue to cook until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads at least 165°F (73°C). This shoudl take around 5 more minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.

Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the fresh ginger, chopped garlic, and the reserved white and light green parts of the scallions. Stir frequently for about 3 to 4 minutes until the garlic and ginger are fragrant and lightly toasted.

Thicken the Sauce: in a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and the remaining 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Add both the cornstarch mixture and the soy sauce mixture to the skillet. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take around 1 minute.

Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken and any juices back to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until it’s well coated. For a lovely presentation, garnish with sesame seeds and the dark green parts of the scallions. Serve this over cooked white rice and enjoy!

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade Ginger Chicken that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress!

serving Suggestions and Storage Tips for Ginger Chicken

After creating your delicious Ginger Chicken, it’s time to think about serving and storing it to keep the flavors fresh. this dish is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests.

Serving suggestions

I love serving Ginger Chicken over 2 cups of cooked long-grain white rice,which helps soak up that sticky sauce. You can also try it with noodles for a different texture or serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for that extra crunch.For presentation, garnish the chicken with sesame seeds and the dark green tops of the scallions. A side of soy sauce or a homemade dipping sauce can elevate the dish. Consider a simple mix of soy sauce, a splash of lime juice, and a pinch of sugar for a refreshing contrast.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare as it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. this dish is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days.When reheating, I suggest using a stovetop pan on low heat to help retain the chicken’s juiciness. You can add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the Ginger Chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Perfect Ginger Chicken

Creating the perfect Ginger Chicken can sometimes come with its challenges, but I’m here to help you avoid common pitfalls and get it right every time.

Ingredient Substitutions

if you can’t find Shaoxing wine, don’t worry! You can easily substitute it with dry sherry or rice vinegar. Both alternatives will still add great flavor.Similarly, if you’re out of cornstarch, arrowroot powder can provide the same thickening effect.

Cooking Tips

To make sure your chicken is tender and juicy, don’t rush the cooking process. Let it brown nicely on both sides before adding the sauce. This step caramelizes the sugars in the chicken, giving it a beautiful flavor.

If your sauce ends up too thick, simply stir in a little more water until you reach your desired consistency.Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer without the chicken to let it reduce.

Common Problems

Chicken Sticking: If your chicken sticks to the pan, it may be that the pan isn’t hot enough. Ensure your skillet is preheated before adding the chicken.
Too Sweet or Salty: If you find the sauce too sweet, add a dash of soy sauce or vinegar to balance it out. If it’s too salty,a little more sugar can help.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients or cooking method. Cooking should be a fun and exploratory experience! With these tips, you’ll make a delightful Ginger Chicken every time.