Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: chicken in garlic sauce! This dish is such a winner because it’s packed with flavor and comes together in no time. Seriously, I can whip it up faster than you can say “takeout!” The simplicity of this Chinese chicken recipe means even on the busiest days, I can still enjoy a delicious homemade meal. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan had everyone rushing to the kitchen! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become your go-to dish too. It’s the perfect blend of savory and satisfying, and I just can’t get enough!
Ingredients for Chicken in Garlic Sauce Chinese Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish truly shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 500g chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier!)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for that lovely coating)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or more if you like it saucy!)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for a fresh garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with flavor, so make sure you have them all on hand before you start cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken in Garlic Sauce Chinese Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the steps for making this delicious chicken in garlic sauce! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through it all, and you’ll be a pro in no time.
Marinate the Chicken
First things first, let’s marinate the chicken! In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This mixture not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken. Give it a good mix to ensure every piece is coated. Let it sit for about 20 minutes while you prep the rest of your ingredients. Trust me, this little step makes a world of difference!
Cook the Chicken
Once your chicken is marinated, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot (you’ll see it shimmering), toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it until it’s fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds—don’t let it burn! Next, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken has a lovely color and the aroma fills your kitchen!
Create the Sauce
Now for the best part—making the sauce! Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where all the flavors come together. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly—just enough to cling to your chicken. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking, and wow, you’re almost there! Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions before serving for a fresh touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken in garlic sauce recipe is a total game-changer for your weeknight dinners! Here’s why I absolutely adore it:
- Quick Preparation Time: You can have this dish ready in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Healthy Protein Source: With chicken breast as the star of the show, you’re getting a healthy serving of protein that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- Versatile with Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to make it even more colorful and nutritious. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on its simplicity and amazing taste!
Tips for Success
Getting the perfect chicken in garlic sauce is all about those little touches! Here are my top tips to make sure your dish turns out fabulous every time:
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two! But if you prefer a milder flavor, stick to the original amount. You can always start light and add more to taste.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: This recipe is super flexible! Throw in some colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pan with the chicken—easy peasy!
- Chicken Size Matters: Make sure to slice your chicken breast into even, thin strips. This helps it cook quickly and evenly, ensuring that every piece is juicy and tender.
- Don’t Rush the Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate for a full 20 minutes really helps infuse those flavors. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Perfecting the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t reduce too much!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious chicken in garlic sauce. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
It’s important to remember that nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use in this chicken in garlic sauce recipe. The estimates provided for calories, fat, protein, and other nutrients are just that—estimates! They can change based on factors like the type of chicken, the amount of oil, and any extra veggies you decide to throw in. So, while I strive to give you accurate information, I always recommend checking the labels on your products or using a nutrition calculator for the most precise details. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love the tender chicken in this garlic sauce, you can easily swap it out for other proteins. Beef strips work great, and they’ll absorb all that delicious flavor beautifully. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu is a fantastic choice! Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture and then cut it into cubes before marinating. Both alternatives will give you a tasty twist on this classic dish!
What can I serve with chicken in garlic sauce?
Oh, the possibilities! I usually serve this chicken in garlic sauce over a bed of fluffy steamed rice—it’s a match made in heaven! You can also pair it with stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with noodles or even quinoa for a different spin. Don’t forget to drizzle any extra sauce over your sides for that extra flavor kick!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, there are a few easy ways to spice things up! Start by adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic while it’s sautéing. You can also mix in a dash of hot sauce when you add the chicken broth for an extra kick. If you’re up for it, throw in some diced fresh chili peppers to really turn up the heat! Just remember to adjust the spice to your preference—everyone’s taste buds are a bit different!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers properly is key to keeping that delicious flavor intact! Once you’ve enjoyed your chicken in garlic sauce, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them into an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days—if it lasts that long! Just remember to keep it sealed tight so it doesn’t soak up any weird fridge odors.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, the best way to reheat this dish is on the stovetop. Just add it to a pan over medium heat, and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. You can also pop it in the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover it to prevent splatters! Heat it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warmth.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor this tasty chicken in garlic sauce even on your busiest days!
Print
Chicken in Garlic Sauce Chinese Recipe: 5 Bold Reasons to Try
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful Chinese chicken dish cooked in garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch for 20 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the marinated chicken and cook until browned.
- Add chicken broth and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice.
- Adjust garlic amount to your taste.
- Can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken in garlic sauce, Chinese chicken recipe, garlic chicken
