PREP TIME: 15 minutes
COOK TIME: 20 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 35 minutes
Hunan Chicken is a popular Chinese dish that originated in the Hunan province of China. This dish is known for its spicy and flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables. It's a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold and spicy flavors.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup + 2 teaspoons cornstarch, divided use
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced
- 1 cup canned baby corn, drained and halved
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 teaspoons chili paste, such as sambal oelek
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Place the chicken and 1/4 cup cornstarch in a resealable plastic bag and shake to coat evenly.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat.
- Add the chicken to the pan in a single layer and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until browned. Cook in multiple batches if needed.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Add the broccoli, celery, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the baby corn. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Add the chicken back to the pan with the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chili paste, and 2 teaspoons cornstarch.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables; bring to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
- Serve immediately over rice, if desired.
NUTRITIONAL VALUES (per serving):
- Calories: 330
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 73mg
- Sodium: 1245mg
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 29g
What to serve with Hunan Chicken:
Hunan Chicken is commonly served with steamed rice or noodles to help balance out the spiciness of the dish. It can also be served with a side of stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli or bok choy, to add some crunch and texture to the meal. For a refreshing contrast, you can serve it with a side of sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables.
How to store Hunan Chicken:
If you have any leftovers, you can store Hunan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place the chicken in the microwave or on the stove and heat until hot. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to the sauce to help loosen it up.
What is Hunan Chicken:
Hunan Chicken is a Chinese dish that features diced chicken that is stir-fried with a spicy and savory sauce made with chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. The dish also includes vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, which add color and texture to the dish. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Hunan Chicken is a spicy and flavorful Chinese dish that is perfect for anyone who loves bold and spicy flavors. It's easy to make and can be customized to your liking by adjusting the level of spiciness and adding your favorite vegetables. So why not give it a try and experience the bold and delicious flavors of Hunan Chicken?