Sticky Tamarind Chicken

There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and savory, and that’s exactly what you’ll encounter with Sticky Tamarind Chicken. This dish takes me back to my childhood, where each bite was a little adventure of flavors dancing on my palate. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of the sauce bubbling away filled my kitchen and drew everyone in, making it a family favorite. The chicken absorbs the rich, tangy sauce perfectly, creating a dish that is sticky in the best possible way. Serving it on crisp lettuce leaves only enhances the experience, bringing a refreshing crunch that balances the flavors beautifully. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home, this dish is a showstopper. Let’s dive into why Sticky Tamarind Chicken deserves a spot on your dinner table!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Sticky Tamarind Chicken

Each ingredient in Sticky Tamarind Chicken plays a crucial role in creating the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. From the richness of chicken to the unique taste of tamarind, they all work together harmoniously. The freshness of lettuce enhances the overall dish, providing a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the sticky chicken.

• 3 tablespoons Asian fish sauce: Adds a salty umami flavor that is essential for depth.
• 2 1/2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce: Balances the fish sauce with its savory notes without overpowering.
• 3 tablespoons honey: Brings the sweetness that complements the tang of the tamarind.
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1/2 tablespoon tamarind paste: The star of the show, providing that unique tanginess.
• 1/2 teaspoon red chile flakes: For a touch of heat to balance the sweetness.
• Grated zest of 1 lime: Brightens the dish with a fresh citrus note.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
• 12 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs: The preferred cut for a juicy and tender result.
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Enhances the flavors with its spiciness.
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional): Adds an extra layer of heat if desired.
• cilantro, for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, herbal touch.
• Crisp lettuce leaves, such as Bibb or romaine, for serving: Perfect for wrapping the chicken and enjoying the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Sticky Tamarind Chicken

Cooking Sticky Tamarind Chicken is a breeze with these simple steps. In no time, you’ll have a delicious, sticky dish that you can’t resist. Let’s get started!

1. Heat your oven to 425°F. Preheating is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization on the chicken.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, tamarind paste, chile flakes, lime zest, and minced garlic. This marinade is what makes the chicken irresistible.
3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step is important for ensuring the marinade adheres well and for achieving a nice texture when it cooks.
4. Add the chicken to the marinade in the bowl and turn to coat each piece well. Make sure every piece is generously covered in that sticky goodness.
5. Arrange the coated chicken on a rimmed baking sheet. Pour any leftover marinade over the top—this is where the magic happens as it cooks.
6. If you want, you can refrigerate the chicken at this point, covered, for up to 24 hours. This step enhances the flavors even more!
7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven, turning it occasionally, until it’s cooked through and caramelized, about 30 to 35 minutes. Look for that beautiful golden-brown color.
8. If you’d like to achieve an extra crispy finish, run the chicken under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes after roasting.
9. Top the cooked chicken with plenty of freshly ground black pepper, and add cilantro and jalapeño slices if desired. This adds freshness and a pop of color.
10. Serve the Sticky Tamarind Chicken over lettuce leaves, allowing everyone to wrap their own delicious bites. Enjoy every sticky, savory bite!

How to Switch It Up

There are several ways to customize Sticky Tamarind Chicken to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with jasmine rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
• Spiciness: Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeño based on your preference.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Sticky Tamarind Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Here are some great ideas:

• Serve in Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves as a wrap for the chicken, providing a fresh crunch.
• Accompany with Rice: Pair with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Perfect for Casual Gatherings: This dish is ideal for BBQs or family gatherings, letting guests make their own wraps.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for easy lunches throughout the week, saving you time and effort.
• Seasonal Sides: Pair with grilled vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

What makes Sticky Tamarind Chicken so special is its ability to create a balance of flavors that excite the palate. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes makes it a standout dish for any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with family and friends; it’s bound to become a favorite at your table!

Sticky Tamarind Chicken

Craving something sweet and savory? Sticky Tamarind Chicken is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that bursts with flavor. This dish brings together the perfect balance of tangy tamarind and sweet honey, creating a sticky sauce that you'll want to savor. Serve it over crisp lettuce for a refreshing twist!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 305

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons Asian fish sauce
• 2.5 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 0.5 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 0.5 teaspoon red chile flakes
• 1 unit grated zest of lime
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 12 thighs bone-in, skinless chicken trimmed, about 5 oz each
• to taste freshly ground black pepper
• 1 unit jalapeño sliced (optional)
• unit cilantro for garnish (optional)
• unit crisp lettuce leaves such as Bibb or romaine, for serving

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Grater
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Heat your oven to 425°F. Preheating is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization on the chicken.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, tamarind paste, chile flakes, lime zest, and minced garlic. This marinade is what makes the chicken irresistible.
3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step is important for ensuring the marinade adheres well and for achieving a nice texture when it cooks.
4. Add the chicken to the marinade in the bowl and turn to coat each piece well. Make sure every piece is generously covered in that sticky goodness.
5. Arrange the coated chicken on a rimmed baking sheet. Pour any leftover marinade over the top—this is where the magic happens as it cooks.
6. If you want, you can refrigerate the chicken at this point, covered, for up to 24 hours. This step enhances the flavors even more!
7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven, turning it occasionally, until it's cooked through and caramelized, about 30 to 35 minutes. Look for that beautiful golden-brown color.
8. If you’d like to achieve an extra crispy finish, run the chicken under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes after roasting.
9. Top the cooked chicken with plenty of freshly ground black pepper, and add cilantro and jalapeño slices if desired. This adds freshness and a pop of color.
10. Serve the Sticky Tamarind Chicken over lettuce leaves, allowing everyone to wrap their own delicious bites. Enjoy every sticky, savory bite!

Notes

There are several ways to switch it up and enhance your meal. For example, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Another great idea is to pair it with jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Feel free to adjust the heat by adding more jalapeño based on your preference. Lastly, experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist.

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Meet Naomi Prince

Cooking is about excitement, and I love taking simple ingredients and turning them into something bold. I work on every aspect of the blog, from brainstorming zesty new combinations to styling the final plate. I tested this recipe in my own home to guarantee it packs the perfect punch of flavor for you.