Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all day? Look no further! This Pinoy Easy Chicken recipe is a perfect example of delicious homemade cooking that's surprisingly quick and easy to make. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, a satisfying lunch, or even a simple yet impressive dinner for guests. This recipe is packed with authentic Filipino flavors and is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the best of easy recipes and healthy meals with this simple, yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for added warmth)
- 1/4 cup water (optional, to adjust consistency)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the cooking oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened and slightly translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a deeper, richer flavor in your chicken. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Step 3: Simmer in Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, white vinegar, black pepper, and optional ginger. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the pan. Add the optional 1/4 cup of water if you prefer a slightly saucier dish.
Step 4: Reduce and Serve
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. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor, but you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts if preferred. Just be mindful that breast meat cooks faster and might become dry if overcooked.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. For a thicker sauce, reduce the water or simmer uncovered for a longer time.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with other spices and aromatics. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick, while a bay leaf contributes a subtle depth of flavor.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or green beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a more complete and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: ~30g
- Fat: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
This Pinoy Easy Chicken recipe is a testament to how simple, quick dinner ideas can be both delicious and nutritious. It's a perfect example of flavorful and satisfying healthy meals that require minimal effort. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!