Chinese Mandarin Chicken
Chinese Mandarin Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a sweet, tangy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests on special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that offers the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right in your kitchen. The combination of soy sauce, lemon juice, and sugar creates a beautiful balance, while the ginger adds a warm, aromatic touch. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chinese Mandarin Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying. The sauce is easily adjustable to match your taste preferences, making it a great option for families with varying spice levels. Plus, with just two chicken breasts, this recipe serves two, making it perfect for an intimate dinner. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or a little bit of both, this dish has got you covered!
What’s in the Bowl
To whip up this mouthwatering Chinese Mandarin Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts
- Oil, for pan-frying
- Chopped scallion, for garnishing
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 slices ginger, peeled
These simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress.
Equipment Breakdown
Before we get cooking, here’s a quick rundown of the equipment you’ll need:
- Non-stick skillet: Ideal for frying the chicken without sticking.
- Spatula: Perfect for flipping the chicken and stirring the sauce.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure accurate measurements for the sauce.
- Knife and cutting board: For slicing the chicken and chopping the scallion.
With the right tools at hand, you’re ready to create a culinary masterpiece!
Chinese Mandarin Chicken — Do This Next
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb more flavor from the sauce.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a non-stick skillet, add a splash of oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up until it’s shimmering.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the sliced chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the ginger slices to the mixture for that extra zing.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the pieces in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the sauce is at the desired consistency, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your Chinese Mandarin Chicken hot, garnished with chopped scallions for a fresh finish.
Adaptations for Special Diets
This Chinese Mandarin Chicken recipe is quite adaptable. Here are some ideas to modify it for various dietary preferences:
- Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Low-carb: Substitute sugar with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, following the same cooking method.
- Paleo: Omit sugar and use honey or coconut sugar instead, ensuring the soy sauce is compliant.
With these adaptations, everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful dish!
Notes from the Test Kitchen
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Always taste the sauce before serving; you can adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your liking.
These tips will ensure your Chinese Mandarin Chicken turns out just right!
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), here’s how to store them:
You can keep Chinese Mandarin Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is ideal, you can use frozen chicken breasts as long as they are thawed completely before cooking. Ensure they are fully cooked before serving.
What can I serve with Chinese Mandarin Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, just cook the chicken and add the sauce for a quick meal.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Chinese Mandarin Chicken is not spicy. However, you can add crushed red pepper or chili oil if you prefer a bit of heat!
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Wrap-Up
Chinese Mandarin Chicken is a fantastic dish that captivates the senses with its sweet and savory notes, making it a perfect choice for any meal. The ease of preparation, combined with its delightful taste, makes this recipe a go-to for both novice and experienced cooks alike. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that feels like a special occasion.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious plate of homemade Chinese Mandarin Chicken tonight! You won’t be disappointed!
Chinese Mandarin Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb more flavor from the sauce.
- In a non-stick skillet, add a splash of oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up until it’s shimmering.
- Add the sliced chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the ginger slices to the mixture for that extra zing.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the pieces in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Once the sauce is at the desired consistency, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your Chinese Mandarin Chicken hot, garnished with chopped scallions for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Always taste the sauce before serving; you can adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your liking.
