| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 310 | 10g | 2g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 2g | 26g | 1.02g |
If bagels and pizza slices make up the quintessential New York City street food, my Chinese-inspired dish can certainly be considered as NYC’s gourmet cousin of sorts. The wonderfully unique Chicken Stuffed Himbabaos recipe truly embodies the vibrant tapestry of my hometown’s cuisine by immaculately fusing traditional Chinese flavours with a juicy American chicken filling.
A Flavorful Fusion
I remember walking through Chinatown after a long play rehearsal, when the scent of steamed bao buns lured me into a tiny eatery tucked away in one of the slender alleyways. That was the first time I tasted Himbabaos, fluffy, slightly sweet bao buns with a variety of fillings. That singular experience sparked the passion behind creating my own version of this dish, the Chicken Stuffed Himbabaos.
Culinary Benefits
The Chicken Stuffed Himbabaos offers the best of both worlds – a memorable flavor experience, and a punch of vital nutrients. The protein-rich chicken provides energy and builds muscle, while the vegetables and fruits snuggled within the Himbao serve up a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants. The olive oil used in the dish provides a dose of good fats and the orange juice lends an unexpected tanginess, upping the ante on the health quotient. Check out Healthline to better understand the health benefits of these ingredients.
This recipe could certainly stand alone as a complete meal, but if you’d like to pair it with something, I suggest a crisp Asian salad or a light miso soup. For something a little heartier, you could consider serving it alongside a classic Pork Lettuce Wrap recipe from Bon Appétit.
No matter the pairing, the Chicken Stuffed Himbabaos is sure to lighten up any dining experience with its delightful blend of succulent chicken and sweet, tangy sauce all ensconced within the pillowy warmth of a Chinese Bao. Just thinking of it brings back the memories of the bustling NYC streets mingled with the punchy flavours of the city’s diverse culinary scene. Bon Appétit!
What You’ll Need
<li>6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts</li>
<li>12 Himbabaos (also known as Chinese Bao buns)</li>
<li>1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil</li>
<li>1 teaspoon minced garlic</li>
<li>1/2 cup orange juice</li>
<li>1 tablespoon orange zest</li>
<li>1 tablespoon honey</li>
<li>2 tablespoons soy sauce</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>2 tablespoons cornstarch</li>
<li>1/4 cup water</li>
<li>1 cup sliced mixed fruits (like pineapple, mango, and strawberries)</li>
</ul>
Method
<h3>Step One</h3>
<p>Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.</p>
<h3>Step Two</h3>
<p>In the same skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and cook until it softens, about 2 minutes. Add the orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.</p>
<h3>Step Three</h3>
<p>In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the skillet and continue to simmer the sauce until it thickens, about 5 minutes.</p>
<h3>Step Four</h3>
<p>Add the reserved chicken back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.</p>
<h3>Step Five</h3>
<p>To assemble the Himbabaos, slice each chicken breast thinly and fill each Bao bun with a few pieces of chicken. Top with a handful of mixed sliced fruits. Enjoy while hot!</p>
