Fast and Delicious: Quick Chinese Chicken Recipes for Easy Meals

Looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy the tasty flavours of Chinese cuisine? Quick Chinese chicken recipes are the perfect solution for those craving the deliciousness of Chinese takeout without the long cooking time. Whether you want a healthier, low-calorie option or simply a convenient meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds without the hassle of spending hours in the kitchen.

 

When it comes to making quick Chinese chicken recipes, there are a few essential ingredients that you will need to have on hand. These include soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and scallions, which are used in many Chinese dishes to add depth and flavour. You may also want to consider marinating your chicken before cooking, as this can help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavours.

Cooking techniques are also an important consideration when making quick Chinese chicken recipes. Stir-frying is a popular method that allows you to cook your ingredients quickly over high heat, while steaming and poaching are great options for creating healthier, low-calorie meals. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, there are plenty of easy Chinese chicken recipes to choose from that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Key Takeaways

• Quick Chinese chicken recipes are a great way to enjoy the delicious flavours of Chinese cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Essential ingredients such as soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and scallions are used in many Chinese dishes to add depth and flavour.
• Cooking techniques such as stir-frying, steaming, and poaching are great options for creating healthier, low-calorie meals.

Essential Ingredients

When it comes to making quick Chinese chicken recipes, there are some essential ingredients that you will need to have on hand. These ingredients will help you to create the delicious flavours that are characteristic of Chinese cuisine. Here are the key ingredients that you will need:

Choosing the Right Chicken

Chicken is the main ingredient in most Chinese chicken recipes. You can use either chicken breast or thighs, depending on your preference. Chicken breast is leaner and has a milder flavour, while chicken thighs are more tender and have a richer flavour. Make sure you choose high-quality chicken that is fresh and free from any signs of spoilage.

Sauces and Seasonings

Sauces and seasonings are what give Chinese chicken recipes their distinctive flavour. Soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, onion, pepper, sugar, ginger, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine are all common ingredients used in Chinese cooking. You can also use cornstarch as a thickener for sauces.

Vegetables and Additions

To make your Chinese chicken recipe more nutritious and colourful, you can add some vegetables like broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onions. These vegetables will also add some texture and flavour to your dish. You can also add some sesame seeds for a nutty flavour and a crunchy texture.

Proposing the use of seafood in Chinese chicken recipes may seem odd, but it can be a great way to add variety and flavour to your dishes. For example, you can use shrimp or prawns in your Kung Pao Chicken recipe, or add some scallops to your stir-fry. Just make sure that the seafood is fresh and cooked properly.

Marinating and Preparing Chicken

When it comes to quick Chinese chicken recipes, marinating the chicken is key to achieving maximum flavour. Creating the perfect marinade is easy and can be done in just a few minutes.

Creating the Perfect Marinade

To create a Chinese-style marinade, you will need soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, and sesame oil. Simply mix these ingredients together in a bowl and add your chicken pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

If you're looking to add a bit of seafood to your recipe, try adding some shrimp or scallops to the marinade. They will absorb the flavours beautifully and add an extra layer of texture to your dish.

Velveting Chicken for Stir-Fry

Velveting is a Chinese technique that involves marinating chicken in a mixture of cornstarch, egg whites, and rice wine. This technique helps to tenderize the chicken and give it a silky texture.

To velvet chicken, simply mix together the cornstarch, egg whites, and rice wine in a bowl. Add your chicken and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. When you're ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.

If you prefer seafood, you can also velvet shrimp or scallops using the same technique. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

By marinating and velveting your chicken, you'll be able to create quick and delicious Chinese-inspired dishes in no time.

Cooking Techniques

When it comes to cooking Chinese chicken recipes, there are a few techniques that can help you achieve the best results. In this section, we will discuss two of the most popular techniques: Stir-Frying in a Wok and Searing for Flavour.

Stir-Frying in a Wok

Stir-frying is a popular Chinese cooking technique that involves cooking small pieces of food quickly over high heat in a wok or skillet. This technique is perfect for cooking chicken stir-fry dishes, as it allows you to cook the chicken quickly and evenly.

To stir-fry chicken, start by heating up your wok or skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil or cooking oil and swirl it around the wok to coat the surface. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and stir-fry for a few minutes until it is browned and cooked through.

You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to your stir-fry for added flavour and nutrition. If you want to make your stir-fry saucier, you can add chicken stock or stir-fry sauce to the wok and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Searing for Flavour

Searing is another popular cooking technique that can add a lot of flavour to your Chinese chicken recipes. To sear chicken, start by heating up a skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil and swirl it around the skillet to coat the surface.

Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and let it cook for a few minutes without stirring. This will allow the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust on the outside, which will add a lot of flavour to your dish.

You can also sear vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snow peas to add more flavour and nutrition to your Chinese chicken recipes. If you want to make your dish saucier, you can add chicken stock or stir-fry sauce to the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes.

If you're looking to switch things up, you can also use seafood in your Chinese chicken recipes. Shrimp or scallops are great options that pair well with chicken in stir-fries or noodle dishes. Just make sure to cook them separately before adding them to your dish to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Popular Chinese Chicken Dishes

If you're looking for delicious and quick Chinese chicken recipes, you're in luck! Chinese cuisine is known for its bold flavours and fresh ingredients, and there are plenty of easy-to-make dishes that you can prepare at home. Here are some popular Chinese chicken dishes that you can try:

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao chicken is a spicy and flavourful dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings. It typically includes chicken, peanuts, and vegetables such as bell peppers and snow peas. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili peppers, which give it a tangy and spicy flavour. You can also add some seafood such as shrimp or scallops to the recipe to add more depth to the flavour.

Sesame Chicken

Sesame chicken is a sweet and savoury dish that is perfect for those who love a little sweetness in their meals. It is typically made with chicken, sesame seeds, and a sweet sauce made from honey and soy sauce. You can also add some vegetables such as broccoli florets or cauliflower to the dish to make it more nutritious. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add some seafood such as shrimp or squid to the recipe.

General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s chicken is a classic Chinese dish that is loved by many. It is typically made with chicken, vegetables such as broccoli and bell peppers, and a sweet and spicy sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili peppers. The dish is often served with rice or noodles and is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.

When cooking Chinese chicken dishes, it's important to use fresh ingredients and to cook the chicken thoroughly. You can also experiment with different seasonings and sauces to create your own unique flavours. Don't be afraid to add some seafood such as shrimp or fish to your dishes to add more variety and depth to the flavour.

Overall, Chinese chicken dishes are a great option for those who are looking for quick and easy meals that are packed with flavour. With a little bit of practice, you can become a pro at cooking these delicious dishes in no time!

Serving and Pairing

Complementing Side Dishes

When it comes to serving Chinese chicken dishes, there are a variety of side dishes that can complement and enhance the flavours of the dish. Steamed rice is a classic pairing that works well with most Chinese chicken recipes. You can also try pairing your chicken dish with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, water chestnuts, and green onions. These vegetables offer a refreshing crunch and a healthy dose of nutrients to your meal.

For those who prefer a sweeter side dish, consider adding honey-glazed carrots or roasted sweet potatoes to your plate. These side dishes add a touch of sweetness that balances well with the savoury flavours of the chicken dish.

If you're looking for a more substantial side dish, you can't go wrong with fried rice. Chinese chicken fried rice is a classic and delicious option that is easy to make and pairs well with most chicken dishes. You can also add shrimp to the fried rice for an extra flavourful twist.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

When it comes to pairing wine and beverages with Chinese chicken dishes, there are a few options that work well. If you're a wine drinker, consider pairing your chicken dish with a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. These wines complement the flavours of the dish without overpowering it.

If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, try pairing your chicken dish with green tea or jasmine tea. These teas have a delicate flavour that pairs well with the subtle flavours of Chinese chicken dishes. You can also try pairing your dish with a refreshing glass of iced water or a soft drink like ginger ale.

For those who enjoy a little kick of spice, try pairing your chicken dish with a cold beer. A light lager or pilsner works well with most Chinese chicken dishes. If you want to add a little extra flavour to your beer, try adding a splash of rice wine vinegar to your glass.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try pairing your chicken dish with a seafood dish like shrimp stir-fry or steamed fish. The delicate flavours of seafood complement the savoury flavours of Chinese chicken dishes and create a well-rounded meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the simplest Chinese chicken dish you can make for dinner?

The easiest way to whip up a Chinese chicken dinner is to make a stir-fry. Cut up some chicken breast into small pieces and stir-fry it with some vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and onions in a wok or large pan. You can also add in some garlic and ginger for extra flavour. Serve it with some rice or noodles, and you have a quick and delicious meal.

How can you get your chicken as tender as they do in Chinese cuisine?

The secret to tender chicken in Chinese cuisine is to marinate it. You can use a simple marinade of soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking it. You can also add in some baking soda to the marinade for extra tenderness.

Could you suggest a quick Chinese chicken curry recipe?

For a quick Chinese chicken curry, you can use a store-bought curry paste and coconut milk. Heat up some oil in a pan, add in the curry paste and cook for a minute. Add in some diced chicken and cook until browned. Pour in the coconut milk and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Serve it with some rice and a side of vegetables.

What's a good Chinese chicken marinade for a flavourful meal?

A good Chinese chicken marinade should have a balance of sweet and savoury flavours. You can use a mix of soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. You can also add in some garlic, ginger, and chili flakes for extra flavour. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking it.

Can you recommend a famous Chinese chicken dish that's easy to prepare?

Kung Pao chicken is a famous Chinese chicken dish that's easy to prepare. It's a spicy and flavourful dish that's made with diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add in some seafood like shrimp or scallops for extra flavour.

What's the secret to a perfect sticky chicken like in Chinese restaurants?

The secret to sticky chicken in Chinese restaurants is to use a glaze made of soy sauce, honey, and hoisin sauce. Brush the chicken with the glaze and bake it in the oven until it's cooked through. You can also add in some sesame seeds for extra flavour and texture.