This Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe brings together a unique blend of flavors that are both sweet and savory, creating an exciting taste experience. The chicken is deep-fried until crispy and then coated in a delicious sticky sauce made with delightful ingredients like pineapple, soy sauce, and red wine vinegar. This dish is a true representation of Chinese BBQ cuisine, providing an authentic taste in every bite.
While most ingredients in this recipe might already be in your pantry, you might need to look out for a couple of items. The soy sauce and red wine vinegar are essential for creating that distinctive Chinese flavor. You can easily find these in the Asian aisle of any supermarket. The cornflour may also be labeled as cornstarch, depending on where you live. It's used to coat the chicken and create a crispy texture.
Ingredients for Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken
Chicken breasts: We're using chicken breasts in this recipe, which are lean and healthy. However, you can also use thighs or a mix of both.
Salt and Pepper: These are the basic seasonings that enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Corn flour: This is used for coating the chicken pieces before frying. It helps create that crispy, crunchy exterior.
Oil: Used for deep-frying the chicken. You can use any neutral-flavored oil.
Onion and Bell Peppers: These vegetables add a nice crunch and color to the dish.
Soy Sauce: This gives the dish its signature Asian flavor.
Red Wine Vinegar: It adds a little acidity to balance out the sweetness of the sauce.
Tomato Paste: Adds depth to the sauce's flavor.
Sugar: This ingredient contributes to the stickiness of the BBQ sauce.
Chicken Stock: Used for making the sauce, it adds a savory note.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks provide a hint of tropical sweetness. Canned pineapple can also be used.
Egg Yolks: Used for the egg wash. It helps the cornflour stick to the chicken.
One reader, Evanne German says:
This sticky Chinese BBQ chicken recipe is a game-changer! The crispy chicken coated in the tangy, sweet sauce is simply irresistible. The combination of flavors is out of this world. It's a must-try for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine. I can't wait to make it again!
Key Techniques for Perfecting Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken
How to fry the chicken: The chicken pieces should be fried in hot oil until they are crispy, slightly golden in color, and cooked throughout.
How to make the cornflour paste: Mix water and cornflour in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
How to prepare the egg wash: Whisk together the egg yolks and milk until well combined.
How To Make Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken
Sink your teeth into this succulent BBQ chicken, a pan-fried meal made with sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors from soy sauce, pineapple, and tomato paste!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3chicken breasts
- salt,to taste
- pepper,to taste
- 1cupcorn flour
- 6cupsoil,for frying
- 1onion
- 2bell peppers
- 2tbspsoy sauce
- 2tbspred wine vinegar
- 2tbsptomato paste
- 2tbspsugar
- ½cupchicken stock
- 1¼cupspineapple
For Cornflour Paste:
- ¼cupwater
- ¼cupcornflour,as needed
For Egg Wash:
- 2egg yolks
- milk
Instructions
-
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cut into bite-size chunks.
-
Dunk each chicken piece in the egg yolk, followed by the cornflour. Set aside.
-
Heat the oil in a deep saucepan until it reaches 375 degrees F. Carefully fry the chicken pieces for about 5 to 6 minutes, until crispy, slightly golden in color, and cooked throughout. Drain onto a plate covered in kitchen roll.
-
In a large saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil and fry the onions and peppers for about 2 to 3 minutes.
-
Stir in the soy sauce, red wine vinegar, tomato paste, sugar, and chicken stock. Cook for about 2 minutes.
-
Add in the cornflour paste. Mix until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the pineapple and chicken until evenly coated with the sauce.
-
Serve with rice and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 3375.47kcal
- Fat: 342.96g
- Saturated Fat: 28.56g
- Trans Fat: 1.43g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 213.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 95.67g
- Carbohydrates: 51.41g
- Fiber: 5.72g
- Sugar: 16.67g
- Protein: 34.48g
- Cholesterol: 157.48mg
- Sodium: 1671.63mg
- Calcium: 107.80mg
- Potassium: 794.39mg
- Iron: 5.32mg
- Vitamin A: 162.82µg
- Vitamin C: 104.79mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Nailing Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken
When frying the chicken pieces, it's crucial to maintain the oil temperature at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it's cooked through on the inside. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Using a cooking thermometer can help ensure the oil stays at the correct temperature.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process. One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup, such as stir-fries or sheet pan meals. Efficient chopping: Master knife skills to speed up ingredient preparation. Batch cooking: Make larger quantities and freeze leftovers for future quick meals. Kitchen organization: Keep a well-organized kitchen to easily locate ingredients and utensils. Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize tools like food processors and slow cookers for efficient cooking. Time-saving ingredients: Incorporate pre-cut vegetables, canned beans, and quick-cooking grains for faster meal prep. Follow a meal plan: Plan your meals in advance to streamline grocery shopping and cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe
Chicken breasts - Substitute with pork tenderloin: Pork tenderloin has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a great alternative for the chicken in this recipe.
Corn flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for corn flour to achieve a similar crispy coating for the chicken.
Oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for oil in this recipe as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Bell peppers - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can provide a similar crunch and color to the dish, and it absorbs flavors well when cooked.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and can provide a similar umami flavor to the dish.
Red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor compared to red wine vinegar.
Tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a substitute for tomato paste to add a hint of sweetness and tanginess to the dish.
Sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and a depth of flavor to the dish, similar to sugar.
Chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for chicken stock to add depth of flavor to the dish.
Pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango can provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients well.
How to Beautifully Present Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sticky Chinese BBQ chicken, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean, white plates to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to pop, and arrange the chicken pieces and pineapple in an artful manner.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating edible garnishes such as microgreens or thinly sliced scallions. These delicate touches will enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish and showcase attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a sense of balance and elegance. Avoid overcrowding the plate and allow the dish to breathe, drawing attention to the star components of the dish.
Focus on symmetry: Aim for symmetrical plating to create a sense of harmony and precision. Arrange the components of the dish in a balanced manner, paying attention to the visual flow and overall composition.
Highlight the glaze: Showcase the glossy, sticky glaze of the Chinese BBQ chicken by carefully drizzling it over the top of the chicken pieces. This will create a lustrous sheen and add a professional touch to the presentation.
Consider the vessel: Select a sophisticated vessel or plate for serving the dish, such as a sleek, modern plate or a traditional Chinese ceramic dish. The choice of vessel can elevate the overall presentation and contribute to the dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile and essential kitchen tool for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Grill: A cooking appliance used for grilling and barbecuing various foods.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
- Skewers: Long, narrow metal or wooden sticks used for grilling kebabs and skewered foods.
- Basting brush: A tool used for applying sauces, marinades, or oils onto food while cooking.
- Tongs: Kitchen utensils with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating food.
- Meat thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of cooked meat and poultry.
- Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping and covering food during cooking.
- Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other foods in the oven.
Storing and Freezing Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken: A Guide
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the sticky chinese bbq chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- The frozen chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
- Place the thawed chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and the sauce is bubbling.
- If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out and adjust the consistency.
- Serve the reheated sticky chinese bbq chicken over freshly cooked rice or noodles for a quick and delicious meal.
How To Reheat Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Leftovers
Reheat the chicken in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help rehydrate the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
For a crispier texture, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the leftover sticky chinese bbq chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
If you have an air fryer, this is a great option for reheating the chicken while maintaining its crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken pieces in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is hot and crispy.
For a quick and easy method, use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is heated through.
If you want to add some extra flavor and moisture to your leftover chicken, try steaming it. Place the chicken in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method will help keep the chicken moist and tender.
Interesting Fact About Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken
The Chinese BBQ chicken recipe is a popular dish in Cantonese cuisine. It is known for its sweet and savory flavors, often achieved through the use of ingredients such as soy sauce, red wine vinegar, and pineapple. This dish is a great example of the fusion of different flavors and cooking techniques, showcasing the diversity of Chinese cuisine.
Is Making Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?
This sticky Chinese BBQ chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken, vegetables, and pantry staples, are reasonably priced and widely available. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15-$20, making it an economical yet satisfying meal choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?
The sticky Chinese BBQ chicken recipe, while undeniably delicious, falls short in terms of overall healthiness. The main concerns are:
- Deep frying the chicken pieces in oil, which adds unnecessary fat and calories
- The use of sugar and cornflour paste in the sauce, contributing to high carbohydrate content
- Limited vegetables, with only onions and bell peppers included
However, the recipe does have some redeeming qualities, such as the use of lean chicken breast and the inclusion of pineapple, which provides vitamins and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Instead of deep frying, opt for grilling, baking, or stir-frying the chicken in a small amount of oil
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables, such as adding carrots, broccoli, or snow peas for added fiber and nutrients
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall salt content
- Serve with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a more nutrient-dense and fiber-rich accompaniment
- Adjust the portion sizes to ensure a balanced meal, with an emphasis on vegetables and lean protein
Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe
The recipe for sticky Chinese BBQ chicken is a delightful combination of crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. The cooking method ensures a perfect texture, and the flavors are well-balanced. The addition of pineapple adds a refreshing twist. However, I would suggest reducing the amount of oil used for frying and incorporating more vegetables for added freshness and nutrition. Overall, it's a delicious dish that can be enjoyed with steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
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Why trust this Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The crispy yet tender chicken, coated in a savory sticky Chinese BBQ sauce, promises a mouthwatering sensation. The inclusion of fresh bell peppers and pineapple adds a delightful contrast, while the carefully selected blend of soy sauce, red wine vinegar, and tomato paste guarantees a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy notes. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to elevate your culinary journey and savor an authentic Chinese cuisine experience.
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