Oriental Chicken

This delicious Oriental Chicken dish brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Marinated in a soy-based sauce infused with ginger, garlic, and a hint of honey, the chicken is seared to perfection, creating a crisp exterior with juicy, tender meat inside. The dish is complemented by stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots, tossed with a light glaze that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. Served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or noodles, this meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with bold, vibrant flavors reminiscent of classic Asian cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snow peas
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
• Cooked jasmine rice or noodles for serving
• Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add the chicken pieces, toss to coat, and let marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to an hour for more flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Stir-fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the bell pepper, carrots, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine and Glaze: Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the green onions and toss everything together. If you want a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch-water mixture and stir until the sauce thickens (1-2 minutes).
5. Serve: Serve the Oriental Chicken over jasmine rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired.

Enjoy this flavorful and vibrant Oriental Chicken, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat!