Craving a heartwarming, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious Chinese Claypot Chicken recipe! This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful balance of tender chicken, savory sauce, and fragrant aromatics. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers incredible results without hours of work. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup oyster sauce
- 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and Shaoxing rice wine (if using). Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps the chicken stay tender and ensures the sauce clings beautifully.
Building the Flavor:
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Heat the vegetable oil in a clay pot or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor and a lovely texture. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
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Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger to the pot and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the sliced bell pepper and cook for another minute until slightly softened.
Creating the Magic:
- Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the sesame oil just before serving. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice.
Tips for the Best Chinese Claypot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Make sure to brown the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar to your liking.
- Use a clay pot (if possible): Clay pots retain heat exceptionally well, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. If you don't have one, a heavy-bottomed pot will work just fine.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add Noodles: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of your favorite noodles for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It's a healthy meal packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious homemade Chinese Claypot Chicken!