Chinese cuisine

Introduction

When it comes to Chinese cuisine, spicy chicken cubes are a dish that is loved by many. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make at home. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make spicy chicken cubes. From ingredient preparation to cooking techniques, we will cover everything you need to know to create a delicious and authentic spicy chicken dish.

Step 1: Ingredient Preparation

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here are the ingredients you will need for this recipe:

• 1 pound of chicken breast or thigh meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 teaspoon of Chinese chili sauce (such as Sriracha) or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 inch of ginger, grated or minced
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish (optional)

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

To ensure that the chicken cubes are well-coated with the sauce, it’s important to marinate them before cooking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chili sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Step 3: Preparing the Aroma Ingredients

While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the aroma ingredients. Mince the garlic and ginger and set them aside. These ingredients will add a lot of flavor to the dish and help to balance out the heat from the chili sauce.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken Cubes

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to start cooking. Heat a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. When the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken cubes to the wok and spread them out in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes or until they are lightly browned on all sides. Use a spatula or tongs to turn the chicken cubes and ensure even browning.

Step 5: Adding Aroma Ingredients and Sautéing

Once the chicken is lightly browned, add the minced garlic and ginger to the wok. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning. The aroma of garlic and ginger should fill your kitchen at this point, which is a sign that they are ready to be added to the dish.

Step 6: Adding Sauce and Simmering

Once the aroma ingredients are fragrant, pour in the marinade that was left in the bowl (reserve any excess marinade for later use). Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Finishing and Garnishing

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove the wok from heat. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. If you have any extra marinade left over from step 6, you can add it back to the dish at this point for extra flavor. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions (if using) and serve hot with rice or as an appetizer with breadsticks. Enjoy your delicious spicy chicken cubes!

Conclusion

Making spicy chicken cubes at home is a great way to enjoy this classic Chinese dish anytime you want. By following these steps carefully and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a dish that is just as delicious as what you would find at a restaurant. Remember to marinate your chicken beforehand for best results and adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences. Happy cooking!