Craving a flavorful, easy-to-make weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Chicken in Oyster Sauce recipe is a delightful blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. It's a perfect example of how simple, healthy meals can be incredibly delicious. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or for those new to homemade cooking. Get ready to experience the magic of this classic dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional, but adds great color and flavor)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch. This helps to create a lovely, slightly crispy texture.
Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and slightly softened. If using, add the bell pepper and sauté for another minute.
Cook the chicken:
- Add the chicken to the wok and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Create the sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
Combine and simmer:
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Finish and serve:
- Stir in the sesame oil and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, for a sweeter taste, add a little more.
- Use high-quality oyster sauce: The quality of your oyster sauce significantly impacts the overall flavor.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook until it's just cooked through and still juicy.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snow peas. Add them towards the end of cooking time to prevent overcooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Chicken in Oyster Sauce recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal perfect for a busy weeknight. Its versatility allows for customization to your liking, ensuring a satisfying and healthy dinner every time. Enjoy!