Just the other evening, with the sun setting and a gentle breeze wafting through my kitchen, I found myself craving something that would awaken my taste buds and fill my home with delightful aromas. That’s when I decided to whip up my go-to Chicken in Hot Garlic Sauce — a dish that has quickly become a favorite in our household. The sizzle of the chicken meeting the wok is music to my ears, and the vibrant colors of the fresh veggies add a cheerful touch to the plate.
What I adore about this recipe is how effortlessly it marries the spicy heat of garlic with the savory richness of soy sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can have tender chicken enveloped in a luscious, glossy sauce that will have you forgetting about takeout forever. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish is not just a meal—it’s an experience that brings everyone together at the table. So, let’s dive into this quick and flavorful indulgence, and transform your evening into a culinary adventure!
Why Choose Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly simple, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes. Irresistible Flavor: The bold combination of garlic and soy sauce offers a savory explosion that will delight your taste buds. Versatile Dish: Perfect with rice or noodles, you can tailor it to your preferences. Crowd-Pleaser: Great for dinner parties or family meals, it’s bound to impress. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our guide on easy weeknight dinners for additional treats!
Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Chicken – Use cubed chicken thighs for extra juiciness instead of breast.
• Cornflour – Thickens the sauce and creates a crispy coating; arrowroot powder is a great gluten-free alternative.
• Salt – Enhances overall seasoning, adjust according to taste preferences.
• White Pepper – Adds a subtle heat; black pepper can be used if you’re out of white.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavor; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’d like.
• Vinegar – Introduces acidity to balance out flavors; lemon juice works as a good substitute.
• Red Chilli Sauce – Brings heat and sweetness; adjust the amount to suit your taste.
For the Vegetables
• Capsicum – Offers crunch and color; feel free to mix and match with different bell pepper varieties.
• Garlic – The star of the dish, delivering intense flavor; always choose fresh over pre-minced for the best results.
• Spring Onions (Scallions) – Add freshness and serve as a garnish; use both the greens and bulbs for maximum flavor.
This ingredient lineup is the heart of our delightful Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese, promising a vibrant meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in no time!
How to Make Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese
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Marinate the Chicken: Start by cubing the boneless chicken. Combine it with cornflour, salt, white pepper, soy sauce, and a splash of water. Allow it to marinate for about 30 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Deep fry the marinated chicken pieces until they are golden brown but not fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes. Drain them on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a clean pan, heat a bit of oil and add minced garlic and ginger, along with red chilis and celery. Sauté until fragrant, then incorporate the chilli paste, red chilli sauce, and soy sauce. Pour in ½ cup of water and stir well.
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Thicken the Sauce: To achieve the desired thickness, create a cornflour slurry by mixing cornflour with a little water. Add it to the pan, stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2 minutes.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped spring onions and capsicum. Season with salt and pepper to taste, allowing it all to cook for an additional 2 minutes until the vegetables are vibrant and slightly tender.
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Combine Chicken & Serve: Gently fold in the fried chicken, letting it simmer in the sauce for another 2 minutes. Finish by adding vinegar and garnish with spring onion greens for a fresh pop of color.
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed rice or noodles to savor all the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dish your own with these fun twists!
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Tofu Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian option that soaks up the garlic flavors beautifully.
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Colorful Capsicum: Use a mix of colored bell peppers to not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also add different sweet notes.
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Spicy Upgrade: Add sliced fresh chilies or a dash of sriracha for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore.
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Coconut Milk Creaminess: Stir in a splash of coconut milk when preparing the sauce for a creamy twist that balances the spice.
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Noodle Addition: Toss in cooked noodles at the end to create a one-pan meal perfect for lazy weeknights.
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Add Crunch: Throw in a handful of cashews or peanuts during the final cooking stage for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
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Garlic Roasting: Roast the garlic before adding it to the dish for a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor that elevates the whole experience.
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Herbal Freshness: Experiment with adding fresh basil or cilantro at the end, lending a burst of freshness that brightens every bite.
Expert Tips for Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese
• Perfect Chicken Texture: Ensure the chicken is marinated properly to maintain its tenderness. Overcooking during frying can lead to toughness.
• Sauce Thickness: Don’t rush the cornflour slurry process; a well-thickened sauce enhances the dish. Adjust the amount to suit your preference but be cautious not to overdo it.
• Flavor Adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. If it lacks depth, a touch more soy sauce or vinegar can balance the flavors.
• Garlic Freshness: Always use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced for a more intense and vibrant flavor in the Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese.
• Substitutions Allowed: Feel free to substitute veggies based on what you have. Different colorful capsicum varieties can really elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
What to Serve with Chicken in Hot Garlic Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this saucy, flavorful dish with accompaniments that balance and enhance its spicy goodness.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the savory hot garlic sauce, adding a subtle sweetness to your meal.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Fresh bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas tossed in sesame oil add crunch and color, complementing the dish’s vibrant flavors.
- Garlic Noodles: The richness of garlic noodles mirrors the bold flavors of the hot garlic sauce, creating a cozy and satisfying meal.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights bring texture and a different flavor profile, perfect for a textural contrast to the tender chicken.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing brightens the plate, while the crunch brings balance to the dish’s richness.
- Chilled Soba Noodles: Their nutty flavor works beautifully with the hot garlic sauce, creating a harmonious fusion on your plate.
For drinks, consider a chilled Riesling or green tea to cleanse the palate, making each bite of the Chicken in Hot Garlic Sauce even more enjoyable!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken in Hot Garlic Sauce preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the cubed chicken with cornflour, salt, white pepper, soy sauce, and a splash of water, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (capsicum and spring onions) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, fry the marinated chicken and prepare the sauce as directed. Just remember, fresh ingredients ensure the dish remains vibrant and delicious, so try to add your vegetables just before cooking for the best quality. Enjoy the ease of quick meal prep without sacrificing flavor!
Storage Tips for Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a suitable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best taste and texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Enjoying Later: Remember, the Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese may thicken after chilling; feel free to add a splash of water during reheating to loosen the sauce.
Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless chicken thighs as they provide extra juiciness and tenderness compared to breast meat. Look for chicken that is firm to the touch and free from dark spots, as freshness is key to achieving a delicious dish.
How should I store leftovers of Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese?
To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can be stored for up to 2 days. If you have more than you can eat, consider freezing it! Just follow the next question for easy freezing instructions.
Can I freeze Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese?
Very! To freeze this dish, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a suitable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This delicious meal can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick during cooking?
No worries! If the sauce thickens more than you’d like, you can easily thin it out. Just stir in a splash of water or chicken broth gradually, until you achieve your preferred consistency. Remember to adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain flavor.
Is this Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari and use arrowroot powder instead of cornflour. If you have a garlic allergy (though it’s the star here!), you could try using a garlic-infused oil for a milder flavor, but be cautious!
Savory Chicken with Garlic Sauce Chinese: Easy & Exquisite!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine cubed chicken with cornflour, salt, white pepper, soy sauce, and a splash of water. Marinate for 30 minutes.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat and fry marinated chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a clean pan, heat oil, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant, then add chilli paste, red chilli sauce, and soy sauce with water.
- Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornflour with water to create a slurry, then add to the pan until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped spring onions and capsicum, season to taste, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Combine Chicken & Serve: Fold in fried chicken, simmer for 2 minutes, add vinegar, and garnish with spring onion greens.