Name: Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup brown sugar; ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; juice of one lime; dried red pepper flakes to taste

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of cooking chicken wafting through the house, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience with Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken. I first stumbled upon this dish during a particularly frigid winter evening, when I craved something warm and satisfying. As the sweet, tangy glaze bubbled away on the stove, I felt the anticipation growing. This dish has become a staple in my home, perfect for those cozy nights when a little indulgence is just what the doctor ordered. Served over steaming rice and with a sprinkle of green onions, it’s a meal that brings a smile to everyone’s face.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken never fails to impress. The balance of flavors – sweet, salty, and a hint of spice – makes this dish a true standout. It’s not just the taste; it’s about the love that goes into every bite, the laughter shared around the table, and the memories made while cooking. I remember the first time I prepared this for friends; they couldn’t believe how easy it was and how much flavor packed into each piece of chicken. It quickly became a request for every get-together! So, if you’re looking for a dish that brings joy and satisfaction, look no further than Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Large Skillet, Meat Thermometer, Serving Plate, Whisk

Why We Love This Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken

A Flavor Explosion

What I love most about Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken is how it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates a glaze that sticks perfectly to the chicken, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering, it adapts beautifully. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want to impress your family or guests.

Easy to Customize

One of the best features of Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken is how easily you can customize it. Want a little more heat? Add some extra red pepper flakes. Prefer it sweeter? A touch more brown sugar will do the trick. The possibilities are endless!

Kid-Friendly Delight

This recipe is also a hit with the kids! My little ones love the sweet and sticky sauce, and I appreciate how I can sneak in some extra veggies on the side. It’s the perfect way to get them to eat healthily without the fuss!

Quick Cleanup

We all know that the cleanup can be the worst part of cooking, but with Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken, it’s a breeze. Everything can be cooked in one skillet, which means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

What You’ll Need for Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken, simplicity is key. Each element plays an essential role, ensuring that this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. From the succulent chicken thighs to the vibrant flavors of soy sauce and ginger, these ingredients meld together to create a glaze that’s irresistibly sticky and flavorful.

1 pound boneless chicken thighs – Juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the sticky glaze.
1 tablespoon olive oil – To help sear the chicken and add richness.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
½ cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create that desirable glaze.
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce – Brings a savory depth to the dish without overwhelming saltiness.
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – A sweet and tangy element that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce – For a hint of sweetness and a little kick!
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger – Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
1 teaspoon minced garlic – Essential for that aromatic backbone.
Juice of one lime – For a refreshing acidity that balances the sweetness.
Dried red pepper flakes to taste – Optional, but they add a nice heat to the dish.

Cooking Method for Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken

Cooking Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken is as satisfying as it is straightforward. This method will guide you through each step, ensuring that your chicken is perfectly glazed and bursting with flavor. Let’s get started!

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be hot enough that the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke. This ensures that your chicken thighs get a lovely sear, locking in the juices.
While the oil heats up, season 1 pound boneless chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s what brings out the flavors in the chicken!
Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken is not only tasty but safe to eat.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This allows the juices to redistribute while you prepare the glaze.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add ½ cup brown sugar, ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and the juice of one lime. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Bring the sauce to a boil. You’ll see it bubble and thicken. This step is essential as it caramelizes the sugars, creating that beautiful sticky glaze.
After it boils, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a flavorful sauce.
Next, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly in the sauce, ensuring every bite will have that incredible flavor.
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking. This is the moment when the chicken absorbs the flavors and becomes thoroughly glazed.
Once done, remove the skillet from heat. To add a lovely touch, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and crunch.

Things Worth Knowing

Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, invest in a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and guarantees juicy chicken.
Don’t rush the glaze: Allowing the glaze to simmer and thicken is crucial. It’s this step that creates that rich, sticky texture that makes this dish so special.
Try with different proteins: While chicken is the star here, you can easily swap it for tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist on this dish.
Serve with rice: The sticky glaze pairs beautifully with steamed rice. It absorbs the delicious sauce and rounds out your meal perfectly.
Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet when cooking the chicken for added color and nutrition.

Substitutions and Tips

When making Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken, there are a few tips and substitutions to consider for the best results. Here’s a handy list to help you out:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the glaze.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve this dish with steamed white rice or quinoa. It also pairs well with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Adjusting sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with honey for a more natural sweetness.
Spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of dried red pepper flakes depending on your heat tolerance!
Garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be added for a fresh touch and a pop of color.

Serving Ideas for Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken

When it comes to serving Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken, there are plenty of delicious options to consider.

Over rice: The classic way to serve this dish is over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the sticky sauce, enhancing every bite.
With vegetables: For a nutritious twist, serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. It adds color and texture to your plate.
Salad topping: Use it as a topping for a fresh garden salad. The flavors of the chicken provide a delightful contrast to the crisp greens.
As a wrap: Shred the chicken and wrap it in lettuce leaves with fresh veggies and a drizzle of sauce for a fun handheld meal.
For meal prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping! Portion it into containers with rice and veggies for quick lunches throughout the week.
Perfect for gatherings: Make it for game day or family gatherings. Everyone will love the delicious flavors, and it’s a forgiving recipe to scale up.

FAQ

Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken is a delicious dish made with boneless chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory glaze. The marinade combines soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and other flavor-packed ingredients, resulting in a sticky texture that clings to the chicken. It’s perfect served over rice or alongside veggies for a complete meal.

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be mindful that they can dry out more easily. Thighs are more forgiving due to their higher fat content, which keeps them juicy and flavorful. If using breasts, consider marinating them for longer to enhance the flavor and keep them moist during cooking.

If you’re looking to kick up the heat in your Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken, try adding extra dried red pepper flakes to the glaze or incorporating fresh chopped chili peppers. You can also serve the dish with a side of spicy sriracha sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick!

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the glaze in advance. Cook the chicken and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the glaze.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken is a fantastic recipe that brings together a wonderful balance of flavors, making it a favorite at any table. Its simplicity and versatility mean it’s perfect for any occasion, whether a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. I encourage you to try this dish and experience the joy it brings. You won’t be disappointed!