Ginger Chicken

Ginger Chicken Recipe from Asia, Pakistan, Southern Asia

Region / culture: Asia, Pakistan, Southern Asia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ginger chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the heat of ginger with the richness of chicken. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meals.

History

Ginger chicken has its roots in Indian cuisine, where ginger is a commonly used spice in cooking. The combination of ginger with chicken creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that has become popular in many parts of the world.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) chicken, breasts, legs, wings, or thighs
3 inches long piece of ginger
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp salt
2 tbsp plain yogurt
4 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp garam masala
4 tbsp garlic powder (optional)

How to prepare

Cut the ginger into matchstick-like pieces, 3 inches long and 2 mm thick.
In a bowl, mix garam masala, black pepper, and salt with yogurt.
Heat the oil in a pan and add the yogurt mixture. Stir-fry until the water from the yogurt has evaporated and the oil is visible.
Add the ginger sticks and stir-fry for 10 minutes. Then add the chicken pieces and sprinkle 2 tbsp of water or chicken broth over them.
Cover the pan and cook for 15 minutes. Stir the chicken thoroughly and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Carefully stir or turn the chicken pieces over. Remove the lid and let it cook on low heat for 10 minutes. Serve warm with rice.
If desired, spoon the cooked, spice-based chicken onto a large plate and sprinkle with garlic powder.

Variations

Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for added texture and flavor.
Use boneless chicken for a quicker cooking time.
Substitute the yogurt with coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the ginger into thin matchstick-like pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavor.

- Stir-fry the ginger before adding the chicken to release its aromatic oils and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

- Be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly to ensure it is safe to eat.

Serving Suggestions

Ginger chicken pairs well with steamed rice or naan bread. Serve with a side of cucumber salad or raita for a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors of the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying and simmering are the main cooking techniques used in this recipe to ensure the chicken is cooked through and infused with the flavors of the ginger and spices.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have garam masala, you can use a combination of ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon as a substitute. You can also use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the yogurt and spice mixture ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the ginger chicken with fresh cilantro leaves or sliced green chilies for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair ginger chicken with a light and refreshing white wine such as a Riesling or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a glass of iced green tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover ginger chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 2g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Ginger chicken is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and may contain gluten if served with rice.

Summary

Ginger chicken is a protein-rich dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Ginger chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this spicy and aromatic dish as a main course or as part of a larger Indian-inspired feast.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Ginger Chicken. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Lily in her quaint little kitchen. Lily was known for her exquisite cooking skills, and she had promised to teach me a new recipe that day.

As we stood in her kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of herbs and spices, Lily pulled out a worn cookbook from her shelf. The pages were yellowed and stained, a testament to the many years of use. She flipped through the pages until she found the recipe she was looking for – Ginger Chicken.

"This recipe has been passed down in my family for generations," Lily explained as she gathered the ingredients. "It's a simple dish, but the flavors are incredible."

I watched in awe as Lily expertly chopped the fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions. She marinated the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, allowing the flavors to meld together.

As the chicken sizzled in the pan, the aroma of ginger and garlic filled the air. I couldn't wait to taste the final dish.

When the Ginger Chicken was finally ready, Lily served it over a bed of steamed rice. The flavors were bold and fragrant, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged Lily to teach me the recipe, and she graciously agreed. I made Ginger Chicken for my family that night, and it was an instant hit. They couldn't get enough of the unique flavors and tender chicken.

Over the years, I have made Ginger Chicken countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delicious dish.

But the memories of that first time I saw the recipe for Ginger Chicken will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the beginning of my culinary journey, a journey filled with flavors, traditions, and cherished moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones.

As I stand in my own kitchen now, preparing Ginger Chicken for dinner, I can't help but smile at the thought of how far I've come. From that fateful day in Lily's kitchen to now, this recipe has been a constant in my life, a reminder of the joy and passion that cooking brings.

And as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Ginger Chicken with my family, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and the memories that it creates.