| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 13g | 3g | 25g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 20g | 2g | 28g | 0.32g |
There’s no better way to embrace the start of spring than by celebrating its harvest. Among my favorite culinary delights of the season, the humble kumquat takes the crown, and it shines exceptionally well in this recipe: my Kumquat-Glazed Chicken.
The Magic of Fusion
As a Californian with proud Gujarati roots, I’ve always found immense joy in blending the flavors of my two homes. This Kumquat-Glazed Chicken is a charming example of that delicate balance. While the glaze boasts an enchanting mix of sweet, sour, and spicy notes reminiscent of a traditional Gujarati chutney, the method of preparing the chicken speaks more to classic American grilling techniques.
Why it Stands Out
What sets this particular recipe apart is not only its delightful fusion of flavors but its bountiful health benefits as well. Kumquats, besides being a tantalizing explosion of sweet-tartness, are packed with fiber and vitals like Vitamin C and antioxidants. Combined with the lean protein from the chicken and the immunity-boosting properties of ginger and garlic, this dish is flavorful and fits well into a balanced diet.
A Perfect Pairing
While the Kumquat-Glazed Chicken is a star on its own, it’s perfect when paired with a simple, subtle dish like steamed jasmine rice or a crisp green salad. The robustness of the glaze complements the simplicity of these sides, creating a meal that is flavorful, yet comfortably balanced. For those yearning for a bit more adventure, try serving it with Basmati rice lightly sautéed with cumin seeds or an asparagus and green bean salad. The herby freshness of these dishes will further accentuate the tangy kumquat glaze, ensuring each bite will transport you to a delightful gastronomic journey between the East and the West.
My Personal Touch
Having been brought up in a family that cherished food, both in its preparation and sharing, my passion for bringing people together around the dinner table is infused into each piece of chicken in this recipe. The love and nostalgia that comes with it, the blend of my Gujarati and Californian identity, and not to mention, the irresistibly unique Kumquat glaze, all culminate into a sensory experience that continues to tug at my heartstrings each time I prepare it.
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup kumquat marmalade
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup chopped kumquats (for garnish)
Method
Step One
First, you want to season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper according to your personal tastes.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes per side.
Step Three
While the chicken is cooking, take time to make the glaze. Combine the kumquat marmalade, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir this mixture until it’s well combined.
Step Four
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside. Add the glaze mixture to the skillet and cook it over medium heat until it thickens. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step Five
Add the chicken back into the skillet and spoon the glaze over it so the chicken is nicely covered. Simmer the chicken in the glaze for another 2-3 minutes.
Step Six
Once the chicken is fully glazed and heated through, turn off the heat. Garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro and chopped kumquats before serving.
Step Seven
Serve the Kumquat-Glazed Chicken while hot, and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
