Hunan Chicken

Tender chicken and crisp veggies stir-fried in a sweet and savory sauce make Hunan Chicken a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation, it stands out on any table. Plus, it’s ready in just 25 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory sauce combined with fresh ingredients creates an unbeatable flavor profile.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup as everything is made in one pan.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hunan Chicken, gather your essential tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Ziploc bag (or mixing bowl)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying, allowing even cooking without overcrowding.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for coating chicken evenly with cornstarch, making the process mess-free.

Ingredients

Tender chicken and crisp veggies stir-fried in a sweet and savory sauce, ready in just 25 minutes.

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or cooking oil of choice
• 2 chicken breasts, boneless skinless, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or cooking oil of choice
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (regular or low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice apple vinegar (or substitute with rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
• 2 teaspoons sambal olek garlic chili sauce or sriracha

For the Veggies

• 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can baby corn, drained and halved

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions, finely diced

How to Make Hunan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Hunan Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all of the Hunan sauce ingredients. Mix well until fully blended and set aside.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Place the sliced chicken in a Ziploc bag along with ¼ cup of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Shake to coat evenly. Alternatively, mix these ingredients in a bowl before tossing the chicken pieces until coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the coated chicken and stir fry until it starts to brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Once cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir in minced garlic and ginger; stir fry for about 5 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets, celery slices, red bell pepper pieces, and baby corn. Stir fry for about 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender yet crisp.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Chicken

Pour the prepared Hunan sauce into the pan with vegetables. Let it bubble and thicken for about 1-2 minutes. Reduce heat to low and add back the cooked chicken. Stir until everything is evenly coated with sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious Hunan Chicken over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for an extra touch. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hunan Chicken

Hunan Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a main course or paired with sides, there are plenty of creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve Hunan Chicken over fluffy steamed rice for a classic and filling meal. The rice absorbs the sweet and savory sauce beautifully.

With Noodles

• Pair with stir-fried noodles for a twist. The noodles add an extra layer of texture and soak up the delicious sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve Hunan Chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun, interactive meal that’s fresh and crunchy.

As Meal Prep

• Pack Hunan Chicken in meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. It keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top with fresh cilantro or basil for added flavor. The herbs brighten the dish and add a pop of color.

With Extra Veggies

• Serve alongside additional steamed or stir-fried vegetables for a nutritious boost. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots work well.

How to Perfect Hunan Chicken

To achieve the best results when making Hunan Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.

• Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth cooking process.

• High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry on high heat to achieve that perfect sear on the chicken and veggies, ensuring they remain tender yet crisp.

• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of sambal olek or sriracha based on your heat preference to make it mild or spicy.

• Thicken the Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding to the chicken. This will create a richer flavor.

• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions; they add texture and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Hunan Chicken

Hunan Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant accompaniment that balances the bold flavors of Hunan Chicken.
2. Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice, eggs, and vegetables brings extra texture and taste to your meal.
3. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat offer a satisfying crunch alongside your chicken.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful vegetables adds nutrition and vibrancy to your plate.
5. Chow Mein: Noodles stir-fried with vegetables provide another carb option that soaks up the sauce well.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad helps cleanse the palate between bites of savory chicken.
7. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, spring rolls make an excellent starter before enjoying your main dish.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting addition to round out your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Hunan Chicken dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Failing to coat the chicken in cornstarch can result in a less crispy texture. Always toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch for a better crunch.

• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can steam rather than fry it. Make sure to cook in batches for that perfect golden-brown finish.

• Neglecting the sauce ingredients: Using incorrect or low-quality sauces can ruin the flavor balance. Stick to fresh ingredients and recommended brands for the best taste.

• Ignoring vegetable cooking times: Some veggies cook faster than others, which can lead to uneven textures. Add vegetables according to their cooking times for a uniformly crisp bite.

• Not letting the sauce thicken: Skipping the step of allowing the sauce to bubble and thicken can leave you with a watery dish. Give it time on high heat for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hunan Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Hunan Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Hunan Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Hunan Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place Hunan Chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Hunan Chicken:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What is Hunan Chicken?

Hunan Chicken is a flavorful stir-fry dish from Chinese cuisine, featuring tender chicken and vibrant vegetables cooked in a sweet and savory sauce.

How spicy is Hunan Chicken?

The spice level can vary depending on how much sambal olek or sriracha you use. Adjust these ingredients according to your heat tolerance.

Can I make Hunan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chop vegetables ahead of time. Cook just before serving for fresh flavors.

Final Thoughts

Hunan Chicken is not only quick and easy but also offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This recipe allows for various customization options; feel free to add more vegetables or adjust spices to suit your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy this delectable meal!

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