Craving a quick, flavorful, and fun meal? Look no further than these Chinese Chicken on a Stick! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a fun weekend lunch. These skewers are packed with delicious, savory flavors and are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic meal that’s both healthy and satisfying! It's one of those easy recipes that consistently delivers delicious results, making it a staple in our quick dinner ideas rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 12-15 wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if using wooden skewers)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. This marinating step is key for juicy and flavorful chicken – don't skip it!
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken is marinated, thread the cubes onto the prepared skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
You can cook these delicious skewers in a few different ways:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Pan-fry: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Chinese chicken on a stick!
Tips for the Best Chinese Chicken Skewers:
- Don't overcrowd the pan or grill: Give the skewers enough space to cook evenly.
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of these skewers really shines when you use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or mushrooms on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki sauce or a sweet chili sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the skewers over rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe for Chinese chicken on a stick is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a healthy meal option, perfect for busy weeknights, and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!