Asian chicken with rice

Sweet, salty, and spicy chicken - a delicious recipe for lovers of Asian cuisine. This recipe, inspired by Adina (Mitinita), combines rich flavors and fine textures to create a dish that will quickly become a favorite. Whether you're preparing for a family dinner or want to impress your guests, this chicken is the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 3 hours (ideally 24 hours)
Cooking time: 6 minutes
Total time: 3 hours and 21 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 2 pieces of boneless chicken breast (I recommend free-range chicken for a more intense flavor)
- 5 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (preferably fresh for a more vibrant taste)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 4 cloves of garlic (crushed to release flavors)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 125 g long-grain rice (this absorbs flavors excellently)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken breast well. Cut it into thin strips, about 2-3 cm wide. This size will allow the chicken to cook evenly and quickly while retaining its juiciness.

2. Marinating the chicken: In a deep plate, combine the soy sauce, honey, ginger, curry powder, and crushed garlic. Mix the ingredients well to create a homogeneous sauce. Add the chicken strips and mix so that each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the plate with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours; ideally, marinate the chicken overnight. This marinade will not only intensify the flavors but will also make the meat more tender.

3. Preparing the rice: While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the rice. Boil water in a pot, add a teaspoon of salt, and once the water is boiling, add the rice. Cook the rice according to the package instructions (usually about 10-12 minutes for long-grain rice). Once cooked, drain the rice and let it rest for a few minutes.

4. Cooking the chicken: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and, once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken strips. Fry them for 3 minutes, then turn them over and let them cook for another 3 minutes until they are golden and fully cooked. The juice from the marinade will turn into a delicious sauce that will coat the chicken.

5. Serving: Serve the chicken warm alongside the rice. You can also add some fresh or cooked vegetables (such as broccoli or carrots) for a pop of color and nutrients. A slice of lime can add a touch of freshness, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top will give a crunchy and appealing look.

Practical tips:

- Ingredients: Make sure to use a quality soy sauce, as this will influence the final taste of the dish. Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms in the pan alongside the chicken to create a complete meal. You can also experiment with other spices, such as chili or lemongrass, to give the dish a different twist.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a light beer. A mint lemonade can add a refreshing note.

Nutritional information: A serving of this sweet, salty, and spicy chicken has approximately 450 calories. It is high in protein due to the chicken, with a low carbohydrate content, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, the recipe can also be adapted for pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Can I freeze the cooked chicken? Cooked chicken can be frozen, but it is recommended not to freeze the rice, as it loses its texture.

Enjoy this recipe! It is easy to make, full of flavors, and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to share your culinary experiences, maybe even add a personal touch to your recipe! Bon appétit!