Soy Sauce Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Chicken Dishes
Pollo alla salsa di soia, or soy sauce chicken, is an easy yet delicious recipe that brings together the bold flavors of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and lime to create a savory and slightly sweet dish. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a flavorful addition to your next meal prep rotation. With tender chicken pieces marinated in a zesty soy sauce marinade, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast (boneless) | 500g |
| Soy sauce | 50ml |
| Fresh ginger | 6g |
| Multifloral honey | 30g |
| Hot paprika | 10g |
| Lime zest | 1 lime |
| Lime juice | ½ lime |
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed (q.b.) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | ~900mg |
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by preparing the chicken breast. Remove any excess fat using a sharp knife, and if necessary, remove the central bone from the chicken breast. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 cm cubes). This will help the chicken soak up the marinade and cook evenly. -
-
Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, hot paprika, and juice of half a lime. To add a fresh, zesty kick, grate the fresh ginger directly into the bowl. Peel the ginger using a small knife and then grate it finely. Add the grated ginger to the marinade. Mince the garlic clove and add it to the mixture as well. -
Marinate the Chicken:
Once all the ingredients are in the bowl, mix everything thoroughly so that the chicken pieces are well-coated in the marinade. Add the lime zest for a citrusy aromatic flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours. For the best results, marinate it overnight to let the flavors fully penetrate the chicken. -
Cook the Chicken:
After marinating the chicken, heat a small amount of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken, making sure to pour in all of the marinade as well. The marinade will create a beautiful sauce that will coat the chicken as it cooks. -
Sauté the Chicken:
Cook the chicken on high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. The chicken will begin to caramelize and the marinade will reduce, becoming a rich, flavorful glaze. Make sure to stir the chicken frequently so it cooks evenly and the sauce doesn’t burn. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the marinade has mostly evaporated, leaving a thick, sticky coating on the chicken pieces. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, serve it hot alongside your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. The soy sauce chicken is full of savory umami flavor with a touch of sweetness from the honey and a hint of freshness from the lime. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Marinating Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavors will penetrate. For best results, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Ginger Freshness: Fresh ginger gives a much stronger, more vibrant flavor than dried ginger. Make sure to use fresh ginger for this recipe.
- Paprika Heat: Adjust the amount of hot paprika based on your spice tolerance. You can use regular paprika if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Cooking the Chicken: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy on the outside. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
This Soy Sauce Chicken recipe is a great way to bring a new flavor profile to your chicken dishes. The combination of sweet, salty, and zesty flavors makes it a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will certainly impress with its savory depth and vibrant flavors.
