Are you craving a flavorful yet simple dinner that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Then look no further! This chicken and soy sauce recipe is your answer. It's a perfect example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. This recipe is packed with umami goodness, making it a satisfying and quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is easy to follow and will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to ensure they're fully coated in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish the delicious chicken with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. The simple yet flavorful sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, creating a truly satisfying and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, honey, or rice vinegar to suit your taste preferences. A dash of sriracha adds a nice kick!
- Add vegetables: For a more complete meal, add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the marinade for a bright and tangy flavor.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic to your liking for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fat: 5-10g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy chicken and soy sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It's a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one proves it! Enjoy!