Amy’s Easy Soy Sauce Honey Chicken

🍯🍗🥢 Amy’s Easy Soy Sauce Honey Chicken 🍯🍗🥢

What is it?
Amy’s Easy Soy Sauce Honey Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the rich umami of soy sauce with the sweetness of honey. It’s a popular Asian-inspired chicken recipe that’s loved for its perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. This dish is typically served with a side of rice or vegetables.

History:
The exact origins of this dish are unclear, but it draws inspiration from Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese and Japanese flavors. Soy sauce and honey have been staples in Asian cooking for centuries, and this fusion likely emerged as a way to combine these two delicious ingredients into a tasty chicken dish.

Components:

• Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe.
• Soy Sauce: Provides the salty umami flavor.
• Honey: Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
• Garlic: Adds a savory kick.
• Ginger: Provides a warm, spicy flavor.
• Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent for the sauce.
• Optional garnishes: Sesame seeds, green onions, and red pepper flakes for added texture and flavor.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This marinade is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with flavor.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal or cover it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, for a few hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook it in the hot pan until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

4. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, take the remaining marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Mix in a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to thicken the sauce. Heat it over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a glossy glaze.

5. Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the thickened sauce over it in the skillet. Allow it to simmer for a minute or two, coating the chicken with the sweet and savory glaze.

6. Serve: Plate the chicken, drizzle any remaining sauce over the top, and garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Preparation Time:

• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to a few hours.
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes.

In total, you can have this delicious Soy Sauce Honey Chicken ready to enjoy in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your marinating time.

Enjoy this mouthwatering dish, and 🥢 bon appétit! 🥢

Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Amy’s Easy Soy Sauce Honey Chicken:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):

• Calories: 300-350 kcal (depending on portion size and cooking method)
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5-1 gram
• Sugars: 18-20 grams
• Fat: 10-12 grams
• Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 65-75 mg
• Sodium: 800-1000 mg (varies based on soy sauce used)

Health Information:

1. Protein Source: This dish is a good source of lean protein from the chicken. Protein is essential for muscle health and overall body function.

2. Moderate Calories: The calorie content can vary based on serving size and preparation methods. It’s a moderately calorie-dense dish, so be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake.

3. Soy Sauce: While soy sauce adds a delicious flavor, it’s relatively high in sodium. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, consider using a reduced-sodium soy sauce or using it sparingly.

4. Honey: Honey provides natural sweetness but also adds sugars to the dish. It’s a healthier alternative to refined sugars but should still be consumed in moderation, especially for those watching their sugar intake.

5. Fats: The fat content in this dish comes from the chicken and any oil used for cooking. It’s not excessively high in fat, but be cautious if you’re following a low-fat diet.

6. Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet (honey) and savory (soy sauce) flavors can make this dish appealing. However, it’s important to balance it with other nutrient-rich foods like vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

7. Customization: You can make this dish healthier by using skinless chicken, reducing the honey or opting for a honey substitute, and using a light cooking oil.

Remember that the nutritional values provided are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. It’s always a good practice to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.