Sure Sounds Crazy Chicken is a delightful, spicy chicken recipe that showcases the richness of Asian-inspired flavors while remaining easy to prepare and relatively quick to cook. The original recipe appeared in the Dayton Daily News under the name “Kelly’s Asian Chicken,” but has since evolved with slight modifications, particularly to the amounts of garlic and vinegar, enhancing its balance of flavors. This dish has garnered a five-star rating, with numerous positive reviews highlighting its irresistible taste and simple preparation process. Below, you will find a detailed breakdown of the recipe, including ingredients, preparation, nutritional information, and some additional tips for a successful dish.
Recipe Summary
Name: Sure Sounds Crazy Chicken
Category: Chicken
Keywords: Poultry, Meat, Asian, Spicy, < 30 Mins, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 284.9
Fat Content: 18.4 g
Saturated Fat Content: 4.2 g
Cholesterol Content: 57.5 mg
Sodium Content: 726.9 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 12.8 g
Fiber Content: 0.4 g
Sugar Content: 9 g
Protein Content: 16.2 g
Aggregated Rating: 5/5 (Based on 10 reviews)
Description
This chicken recipe is a blend of tangy and spicy notes, with a touch of sweetness from honey, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. It is particularly appealing for those who enjoy bold, Asian-inspired dishes. Despite the somewhat daunting name, the dish is straightforward to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. The sure sounds crazy chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Here is a detailed list of the ingredients needed to prepare Sure Sounds Crazy Chicken:
- 1 frying chicken – You can use a whole chicken cut into pieces or equivalent weight in your preferred cuts (approximately 2-3 pounds).
- 3 cloves garlic – Peeled and minced. Adjust the quantity if you prefer more or less garlic intensity.
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar – Provides the tangy base for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds depth and umami to the dish.
- 3/4 cup honey – Balances the vinegar’s acidity with sweetness.
- 1/4 cup oil – Use vegetable oil or another neutral oil for frying.
- 3 hot peppers – Sliced. Choose your preferred type (e.g., jalapeños, serranos) based on desired heat level.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare the Sure Sounds Crazy Chicken:
-
Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken, but not so hot that it smokes. -
Fry the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Fry them until they are almost browned. This initial browning step is crucial as it helps seal in the juices, giving the chicken a crispy exterior and juicy interior. -
Add Garlic and Peppers:
Once the chicken is nearly browned, add the minced garlic and sliced hot peppers. Stir occasionally, ensuring the garlic does not burn. Continue to cook until the chicken is fully browned and the garlic becomes fragrant. Note that bits of garlic skin can blend into the dish, adding to its rustic charm. -
Incorporate Remaining Ingredients:
Pour in the vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine. The sauce will bubble up initially, then settle into a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes over medium-high heat. During this time, the chicken should cook through completely, and the sauce will reduce slightly, coating the chicken with a glossy finish. -
Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and pour any remaining sauce over the top. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This information is calculated based on six servings:
- Calories: 284.9
- Total Fat: 18.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.2 g
- Cholesterol: 57.5 mg
- Sodium: 726.9 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12.8 g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.4 g
- Sugars: 9 g
- Protein: 16.2 g
Additional Tips
-
Chicken Cuts:
If you prefer, you can use only certain cuts of chicken (like thighs or breasts) rather than a whole chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless cuts may cook faster than bone-in pieces. -
Garlic:
For a more intense garlic flavor, increase the number of garlic cloves. You can also try using garlic powder as a substitute if you are in a pinch. -
Adjusting Heat:
The type and quantity of hot peppers can be modified based on your tolerance for heat. Removing the seeds and membranes from the peppers can reduce their spiciness. -
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Consider serving it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal. -
Storage and Reheating:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. -
Variations:
Experiment with different types of vinegar or soy sauce for a unique twist. Apple cider vinegar or tamari could provide interesting flavor variations.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the flavors of the Sure Sounds Crazy Chicken, consider these pairing options:
- Beverages: Serve with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a cold lager. For non-alcoholic options, iced green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime can be refreshing.
- Side Dishes: Steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or sesame noodles make excellent sides. For vegetables, try stir-fried bok choy, sautéed spinach with garlic, or a fresh cucumber salad.
Cultural Notes
This dish, while not authentically Asian, takes inspiration from various Asian cuisines by combining vinegar, soy sauce, and honey to create a sweet and tangy profile. Such fusion recipes often result from the blending of different culinary traditions and can provide a gateway for those new to these flavors.
Conclusion
Sure Sounds Crazy Chicken is a testament to the power of simple, bold ingredients coming together to create a memorable dish. Its ease of preparation and complex flavor profile make it a standout choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you are cooking for family, entertaining friends, or simply looking for a new dish to try, this recipe is sure to please. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adjusting the heat level or trying different ingredients, and enjoy the delicious results!
With this detailed guide, you should be well-equipped to prepare and enjoy Sure Sounds Crazy Chicken. This recipe promises a delightful culinary experience, combining convenience with taste, and is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.