This spicy ginger chicken dish is a flavorful and aromatic meal that combines tender chicken with a zesty ginger sauce. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners. You can serve it with rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Preparation of Spicy Ginger Chicken
Creating a plate of spicy ginger chicken is a straightforward process that yields delicious results.
Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of minced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and honey.
This step infuses the chicken with bold flavors, setting the stage for a delightful dish.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This not only enhances the taste but also helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful.
Cooking Techniques
Once the chicken is marinated, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken to the hot oil, ensuring each piece is well-cooked and slightly caramelized.
This process typically takes about 5-7 minutes, creating a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
Next, incorporate colorful bell peppers and fresh broccoli florets into the skillet.
These vegetables not only add a pop of color but also contribute to the overall texture and nutrition of the dish.
Cook them for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing them to remain tender-crisp.
Garnishing and Serving
To finish, garnish the spicy ginger chicken with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
These toppings enhance the dish’s visual appeal and add a subtle crunch.
Serve the chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles to soak up the savory sauce.
This combination creates a satisfying meal that is both comforting and vibrant.
Flavor Profile
This dish is characterized by its zesty ginger flavor, balanced with the heat from chili paste.
The sweetness from honey perfectly complements the savory notes of soy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
The addition of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy sauce.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
Spicy ginger chicken serves four people, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
For a complete meal, consider pairing the dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.
This will round out the meal and provide additional nutrients.
Variations and Tips
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the level of spiciness to suit your taste.
For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili paste or substitute it with a less spicy alternative.
Experimenting with different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, can also yield delicious results.
This versatility makes spicy ginger chicken a fantastic option for various dietary preferences.
Quick and Flavorful Spicy Ginger Chicken
This spicy ginger chicken features marinated chicken pieces stir-fried with fresh ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and honey. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Stir-Fry Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and stir-fry until cooked through and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
