Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This recipe for Chicken with Duck Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. It's a delicious fusion of sweet and savory, combining tender chicken with that iconic tangy-sweet duck sauce. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple homemade cooking can produce truly delicious dishes. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup duck sauce (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 inch ginger, minced (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch and soy sauce. Toss to coat evenly. This helps the chicken stay tender and ensures a lovely crispy texture.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for best results.
Create the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the duck sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger (if using).
Combine and Simmer:
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Bring to a simmer, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the chicken beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables.
Homemade Duck Sauce (Optional):
If you want to make your duck sauce from scratch, here’s a simple recipe:
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Simply combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well combined and slightly thickened. Let it cool before using.
Tips for the Best Chicken with Duck Sauce:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Cook it until it's just cooked through and still juicy.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar.
- Add some veggies: Enhance the dish by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Use different protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu for a delicious twist.
- Try different sauces: Experiment with other Asian-inspired sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and serving size. A general estimate for a serving of chicken with duck sauce over rice would be approximately 350-450 calories, with varying amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use an online nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities used. This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option, offering a good source of lean protein from the chicken.
This easy chicken recipe with duck sauce is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!