Indulge in the rich flavors of Asia with this delectable Oyster Sauce Chicken recipe, a dish that embodies the essence of Chinese cuisine. The combination of tender chicken, savory oyster sauce, and aromatic ginger creates a culinary experience that is both authentic and delightful. This recipe is not only a staple in many Chinese households but also a popular choice for weeknight dinners due to its simplicity and speed of preparation. The oyster sauce, with its deep umami flavor, elevates the dish to a new level of sophistication, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
- : 1.25 lbs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Marinade ingredients:
- Soy sauce: 0.5 tbsp
- Shaoxing rice wine: 1 tbsp
- Sugar: 0.5 tsp
- Salt: 0.25 tsp
- White pepper: 0.125 tsp
- Cornstarch: 1 tbsp
- Water: 1 tbsp
- Cooking oil: 1 tbsp
- Aromatics:
- Ginger: 3 slices
- Garlic: 2 cloves, sliced
- Green onions: 3 stalks, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- Sauce ingredients:
- Oyster sauce: 1.5 tbsp
- Dark soy sauce: 1 tsp
- Honey: 2 tsp
- Water: 3 tbsp
- Sesame oil: 1 tsp
- Vegetables (optional):
- Onion: 8.47 oz (240g), sliced
- Snow pea leaves or spinach: 8 oz, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, Shaoxing rice wine, sugar, salt, white pepper, cornstarch mixture, and cooking oil. Mix well and let marinate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, and water. Set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat cooking oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add ginger slices and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Add vegetables: If using, add garlic slices and onions to the pan. Stir-fry until the onions are translucent.
- Simmer in sauce: Pour the prepared oyster sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the pan and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Finish with sesame oil: Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and stir-fry briefly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Top Tips
- Use high-quality oyster sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
- Adjust the amount of honey based on your desired level of sweetness.
- Add vegetables like onions or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Use sesame oil sparingly as it can overpower other flavors.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Variations
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Mushroom addition: Add sliced mushrooms like shiitake or button mushrooms for added depth.
- Snow pea leaves: Use snow pea leaves instead of spinach for a lighter, fresher taste.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Korean-inspired: Add Gochujang to the sauce for a Korean twist.
Nutritional Guide
| Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-5 | 320 | 14g | 20g | 35g |
Additional nutritional notes: This dish is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for a weeknight meal. The protein content is high due to the chicken, while the carbohydrates are moderate, primarily from the sauce ingredients. Adjusting the amount of honey can help manage carbohydrate intake.
