Are you craving a flavorful and easy dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further! This Foodland Shoyu Chicken recipe is a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Inspired by classic Japanese flavors, this dish is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Get ready to impress your family with this homemade culinary delight – it's one of the best recipes for a satisfying and quick dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (Shoyu) – Foodland brand recommended but any good quality will do!
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons sake (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. This step is key for a delicious result.
Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken:
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the chicken. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately over a bed of cooked rice.
Tips for the Best Shoyu Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to the skillet along with the chicken.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Foodland Shoyu Chicken with Mushrooms: Add sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor boost.
- Foodland Shoyu Chicken with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Foodland Shoyu Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights and a healthy meal option for the whole family. Enjoy this delicious dish and elevate your weeknight dinner routine!