Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
350 | 10g | 2g | 26g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
19g | 1g | 38g | 2.5g |
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Asian Plum Sauce Chicken has a distinct place in my heart. Growing up in a household with Nigerian parents in the heart of Atlanta, I was always surrounded by the rich aromas of my mother’s West African stews mingling with the comforting spices of Southern cuisine. It’s this blend of cultures that inspired my culinary experimentations. The first time I made Asian Plum Sauce Chicken, it felt like a discovery that combined the inexplicable warmth of home with an exotic twist we all yearn for in new dishes.
A Burst of Sweet and Savory Flavors
One of the things I adore about the Asian Plum Sauce Chicken is its perfect balance of sweet and savory. The hoisin sauce adds a deep, umami flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the plum sauce. The slight tanginess from the rice vinegar and the aromatic notes brought by minced ginger and garlic transform a simple chicken breast into something incredibly special. Here’s a neat fact – ginger not only amps up the taste but also provides anti-inflammatory benefits, making this dish as good for your health as it is for your taste buds. Read more about ginger’s health benefits here.
A Fusion That Works
This dish remarkably mirrors the Afro-Southern fusion I love and advocate for. The ingredients cater to someone looking to elevate a simple meal with minimal effort. The soy sauce, a staple in Asian cooking, and sesame oil provide an added depth. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds for that final touch of nuttiness and texture. Let’s not forget the green onions, which add a fresh, crisp bite to the dish.
If you adore dishes like Teriyaki Chicken or even a classic Southern fried chicken, you’ll find a new favorite in the Asian Plum Sauce Chicken. It pairs excellently with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed vegetables, or even a fresh garden salad if you’re leaning towards a lighter meal. For those who love experimenting, try it with a side of coconut rice for an additional layer of flavor that perfectly complements this dish’s complex profile.
Let’s take a moment to think about the health aspects. Chicken breast is a lean protein, low in fat and high in nutritional value, making this dish great for those watching their diet. Coupled with fresh ingredients like ginger and garlic, this can be a guilt-free indulgence to enjoy with your loved ones any time of the week.
So, here’s to trying out something different yet comfortingly familiar, and to celebrating the beautiful amalgamation of diverse culinary traditions. Give the Asian Plum Sauce Chicken a try; I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it just as I did.
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What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/2 cup plum sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the 6 chicken breasts in a single layer.
Step Two
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, plum sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
Step Three
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Step Four
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
Step Five
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step Six
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Step Seven
In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce in the baking dish and stir to thicken if necessary.
Step Eight
Before serving, garnish with finely chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional). Serve hot with rice or vegetables.