Hunan Chicken recipe is a beloved dish known for its bold, spicy flavors and crisp vegetables. Originating from the Hunan province in China, this recipe perfectly balances heat, umami, and savory notes. In this post, we explore the essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and tips to make a restaurant-quality Hunan Chicken at home. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or Chinese cuisine, this recipe will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Why is it Called Hunan Chicken?
Hunan Chicken derives its name from the Hunan province of China, which is known for its rich culinary heritage. This region is famous for its spicy and sour dishes, which typically incorporate a variety of fresh ingredients like peppers, garlic, and ginger. The traditional Hunan-style of cooking often includes the use of chili paste, soy sauce, and vinegar to enhance the bold flavors. The chicken in this recipe is stir-fried to perfection, blending beautifully with vegetables and an aromatic sauce. Hence, the dish is a true representation of the spicy, tangy Hunan cooking style.
How Should Hunan Chicken Taste?
Hunan Chicken boasts a unique combination of flavors. It is typically spicy, but the heat is well-balanced with a savory and slightly tangy sauce. The dish also has a natural sweetness from the vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and carrots. With the addition of soy sauce and rice vinegar, the sauce has a depth of umami flavor. The tender chicken, coated in a slightly thickened sauce, absorbs all these flavors, making each bite a burst of taste. If you enjoy a bit of a kick in your meals, this dish is a must-try!
It’s About: How to Make Hunan Chicken Super Yummy?
Making the perfect Hunan Chicken requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are the essential steps to making it delicious:
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken tender during cooking.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Hunan Chicken is loaded with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-frying them on high heat ensures they retain their crunch and color, giving the dish its signature texture.
- Prepare the Sauce: The sauce is the star of this dish. Mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, sugar, and a little chicken broth to create a bold, spicy base. Adjust the chili paste based on your desired spice level.
- Cook the Chicken: Stir-fry the marinated chicken until it’s slightly golden. This ensures it locks in the flavor before combining it with the sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the chicken and vegetables in the prepared sauce, allowing everything to meld together for a few minutes. Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Hunan Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Wok
- Cutting board
- knife
- Bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 500 gm Chicken breast thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce for marinade
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- 2 Cloves garlic minced
- 1 inch Ginger minced
- 1 Red bell pepper sliced
- 1 Green bell pepper sliced
- 1 Carrot thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp chili paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce for sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with water
Instructions
- 1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.2. Prepare the Vegetables: Slice all vegetables and set them aside.3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chili paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chicken broth.4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a wok with oil, and stir-fry the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add more oil to the wok, and stir-fry the bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli for 3-4 minutes until tender but crisp.6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the chicken back to the wok and pour in the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.7. Serve: Serve hot with steamed rice.
Notes
Conclusion:
- Hunan Chicken is the perfect dish for those who crave a spicy, flavorful meal. Its rich sauce, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables come together to create a satisfying dish that’s easy to make at home. The balance of spice and savory flavors makes this recipe a great introduction to Hunan cuisine. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right from your kitchen. Don’t forget to adjust the heat level to your preference, and serve it with steamed rice for a complete experience.
