Chinese Chicken on a Stick, also known as Chinese Chicken Skewers, is a popular street food in China and a favorite dish in Chinese restaurants around the world. This delicious and flavorful dish consists of marinated pieces of chicken skewered on bamboo sticks and grilled to perfection. The marinade typically includes a combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other aromatic spices, giving the chicken a savory and slightly sweet flavor. Chinese Chicken on a Stick is not only a tasty and satisfying dish, but it is also easy to make at home, making it a great option for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients for Chinese Chicken on a Stick Recipe
To make Chinese Chicken on a Stick, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon of Chinese five-spice powder
– Bamboo skewers
These ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store or Asian market. The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder creates a rich and flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with delicious taste. The bamboo skewers are used to thread the marinated chicken pieces for grilling, adding a fun and convenient way to enjoy this dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chinese Chicken on a Stick
1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and Chinese five-spice powder. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. While the chicken is marinating, soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent them from burning during grilling.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
These step-by-step instructions are easy to follow and will result in perfectly grilled Chinese Chicken on a Stick. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, while grilling adds a delicious smoky char that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Chinese Chicken on a Stick
| Serving Suggestion | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White Rice | 1 cup |
| Steamed Vegetables | 1 cup |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped Green Onions | 1 tablespoon |
Chinese Chicken on a Stick can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or as part of a larger meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious dish:
– As an appetizer: Serve the grilled chicken skewers with a side of sweet chili sauce or peanut dipping sauce for a flavorful and satisfying starter.
– As a main dish: Pair the chicken skewers with steamed white rice or fried rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
– As part of a larger meal: Include Chinese Chicken on a Stick as part of a larger spread of Chinese-inspired dishes, such as egg rolls, lo mein, and dumplings for a festive and delicious feast.
No matter how you choose to serve it, Chinese Chicken on a Stick is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Its flavorful marinade and juicy grilled chicken make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways.
Variations and Customizations for Chinese Chicken on a Stick
While the classic recipe for Chinese Chicken on a Stick is delicious on its own, there are several variations and customizations that can be made to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some ideas for customizing this dish:
– Spicy version: Add some chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
– Citrus twist: Add some freshly squeezed orange or lime juice to the marinade for a bright and citrusy flavor.
– Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan for a meatless version of this dish.
– Skewer variations: Use metal skewers instead of bamboo skewers for a more sustainable option, or use smaller skewers for bite-sized appetizers.
These variations and customizations allow you to tailor the dish to your liking and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a citrusy twist, there are endless possibilities for making Chinese Chicken on a Stick your own.
Health Benefits of Chinese Chicken on a Stick
Chinese Chicken on a Stick offers several health benefits when prepared with lean cuts of chicken and minimal added fats. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as overall health and wellness. The marinade for Chinese Chicken on a Stick typically includes ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, grilling the chicken instead of frying it helps to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
By incorporating Chinese Chicken on a Stick into your diet, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal while also reaping the nutritional benefits of lean protein and flavorful spices. This dish is a great option for those looking to add more variety to their meals while still prioritizing health and wellness.
Conclusion and Final Tips for Making Chinese Chicken on a Stick
In conclusion, Chinese Chicken on a Stick is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. With its flavorful marinade and juicy grilled chicken, it is sure to be a hit with family and friends. By following the step-by-step instructions and experimenting with different variations and customizations, you can tailor this dish to your liking and create a unique culinary experience.
When making Chinese Chicken on a Stick, be sure to use high-quality ingredients and lean cuts of chicken for the best results. Additionally, don’t be afraid to get creative with the marinade and try different flavor combinations to suit your taste preferences. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a larger meal, Chinese Chicken on a Stick is a delicious and satisfying option that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
FAQs
What is Chinese chicken on a stick?
Chinese chicken on a stick, also known as Chinese chicken skewers, is a popular Chinese street food dish made with marinated chicken pieces skewered onto bamboo sticks and grilled or barbecued.
What are the ingredients for Chinese chicken on a stick?
The ingredients for Chinese chicken on a stick typically include chicken breast or thigh meat, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and Chinese five-spice powder. Bamboo skewers are also used for grilling the chicken.
How is Chinese chicken on a stick prepared?
To prepare Chinese chicken on a stick, the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and Chinese five-spice powder. The marinated chicken is then skewered onto bamboo sticks and grilled or barbecued until cooked through.
What are some variations of Chinese chicken on a stick?
Some variations of Chinese chicken on a stick may include different marinades or seasonings, such as Sichuan peppercorns for a spicy and numbing flavor, or a sweet and sour marinade for a tangy twist. Additionally, different types of meat, such as pork or beef, can be used in place of chicken.
What are some serving suggestions for Chinese chicken on a stick?
Chinese chicken on a stick is often served as a snack or appetizer, and can be accompanied by a dipping sauce such as sweet and sour sauce, hoisin sauce, or a spicy chili sauce. It can also be served with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
