Ready for something different and delicious? Look no further than Chinese Chicken on a Stick recipe! This quick yet flavorful recipe allows you to transform ordinary chicken into a delightful meal that will tantalize the taste buds of everyone around your dinner table. Not only can this dish be easily customized with your favorite spices, but it also has some health benefits as well due to being packed with vitamins and minerals. Whether you’re an experienced home cook looking for something new or someone feeling adventurous in the kitchen, there’s sure to be something here for everyone. So get ready–it’s time dive into Chinese Chicken on a Stick!
What is chinese chicken on a stick?
Chinese chicken on a stick is a popular dish that consists of bite-sized pieces of marinated chicken, which are skewered and then deep fried. It’s commonly served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and other spices to add flavor. The chicken is usually coated in cornstarch or flour before being fried for a crispy texture.
Which part of the chicken should you use?
Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe. They are easy to cut into smaller pieces, and they cook quickly so that you don’t have to worry about overcooking them. However, other cuts of chicken such as thighs or drumsticks can also be used if desired.
Nutritional facts of chinese chicken on a stick:
This dish is surprisingly healthy and provides a good source of lean protein. It also contains vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamin B-6, and more. Each serving of Chinese Chicken on a Stick typically contains around 20-30 grams of protein and just under 200 calories.
Chinese Chicken On A Stick Recipe
Chinese Chicken on a Stick Recipe
Chinese Chicken on a Stick recipe holds a special place in my culinary heart. The perfect amalgamation of flavors, it not only represents the rich tradition of Chinese cuisine but also evokes memories of bustling night markets and lively street food scenes. Every bite feels like a journey through layers of taste and cultural history.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For Skewering and Cooking:
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Cooking oil, for grilling
Instructions
1. Prepare and Season:
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, Chinese five-spice powder (if using), and red pepper flakes. This aromatic mixture is going to infuse your chicken with layers of flavor.
- Place the cubed chicken in a zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag, then massage and mix the chicken to ensure it's thoroughly coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours.
2. How to Put the Chicken on the Stick:
- After marination, remove the chicken from the bag and discard the marinade. Pat the chicken dry using paper towels – this step helps achieve a nice sear on the grill.
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char. Cooking time may vary based on your grill's heat.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chicken is cooked through and has that irresistible grilled appearance, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve the Chinese Chicken on a Stick hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that authentic touch.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Amount Per Serving:Calories: 220Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 650mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 2gSugar: 6gProtein: 28g
How to cook it in the oven?
1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
How to cook it on the BBQ grill?
1. Preheat BBQ grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
2. Place the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared grill.
3. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
How long does it take to cook chicken on a stick?
The time needed to cook Chinese chicken on a stick will depend on the size of the pieces and the method of cooking. For fried chicken, it typically takes 3-5 minutes for each skewer in hot oil. For oven-baked chicken, it takes 15-20 minutes in a 400°F preheated oven. And for BBQ grilled chicken, it takes 3-4 minutes per side.
What are some serving ideas for Chinese Chicken on a Stick?
Chinese chicken on a stick is incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. It’s great as an appetizer or as part of a main course, served with sides like rice or salad. It also pairs well with dipping sauces such as soy sauce, chili oil, sweet and sour sauce, or teriyaki sauce. It’s also delicious served over noodles, in a wrap, atop a salad, or simply with steamed vegetables.
How to store leftovers:
Leftover Chinese Chicken on a Stick can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can also heat it in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm.
Common mistakes when cooking chinese chicken on a stick?
One common mistake when cooking Chinese chicken on a stick is not marinating it long enough. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight will give it more flavor and help keep it juicy and tender. Additionally, make sure to use an oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable or canola oil when frying so that the outside doesn’t burn before the inside is cooked through. Finally, be sure to not overcrowd the pan or deep fryer when cooking so that each piece has enough room to cook evenly without sticking together.
Tips for making chicken on a stick:
To get a crispy texture on the outside, be sure to coat each skewer of chicken in a mixture of flour and cornstarch before frying. This will help create a golden crust that is crunchy and delicious. Additionally, if you are using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand so that they don’t burn when cooking. Finally, to add more flavor, try brushing the cooked skewers with a glaze of honey and soy sauce for a sweet-savory finish.
Conclusion
Crafting a Chinese chicken on a stick recipe can be easy and fun for the whole family! The flavors are all unique and work really well together. It’s also an interesting way to mix things up from your usual weeknight dinner routine. And who wouldn’t want delicious grilled chicken with a side of crunchy vegetables? Hopefully this recipe will have inspired you to try something new and exciting in the kitchen. Plus, it’s simple enough that even novice cooks can tackle it with ease. Now all that’s left is to make it and enjoy the delightful flavors of Chinese Chicken on a Stick! Bon Appétit!
FAQs
What is Chinese chicken on a stick made of?
Chinese chicken on a stick is made of bite-sized pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are marinated in a soy sauce mixture and then either fried, baked, or grilled.
What type of oil should I use when frying?
It’s best to use an oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable or canola oil when frying in order to prevent the outside of the chicken from burning before it is cooked through.
Why is Chinese chicken on a stick red?
The red color of Chinese chicken on a stick comes from the marinade that is used, which typically includes paprika. Paprika is a spice made from ground dried peppers and gives the chicken its characteristic red hue.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best results. This will help to ensure that the chicken is full of flavor and stays juicy and tender after cooking.
What type of dipping sauce should I use?
Chinese chicken on a stick pairs well with many different types of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, chili oil, sweet and sour sauce, teriyaki sauce, or any other type of your favorite condiments.
What is the name of Chinese meat on a stick?
The name of Chinese meat on a stick is “Chuanr” in Mandarin. Chuanr typically refers to skewers of various types of marinated meat or seafood that are grilled over charcoal and served with dipping sauces.
Is Chinese chicken on a stick healthy?
Yes, Chinese chicken on a stick can be a healthy option when prepared properly. Since the chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, it’s full of flavor without being overly greasy or unhealthy. Additionally, you can opt to bake or grill it instead of frying for a healthier option.
What is the chicken on a stick called?
The chicken on a stick is often referred to as “Kabobs” or “Shish Kabobs”. It has its origins in Middle Eastern cuisine and typically features pieces of marinated meat and vegetables cooked together on a skewer.
What temperature should I cook the chicken on a stick?
For frying, the temperature of the oil should be between 350-375°F. For baking or grilling, the ideal temperature is 400°F. It’s important to make sure that the chicken is cooked through before serving, so use a food thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.