Guamanian Chicken

Guamanian Chicken Recipe from Guam | Ingredients: chicken, lemons, limes, onions, vinegar, soy sauce, beer, garlic powder

Region / culture: Guam | Preparation time: 24 hours | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 5

Introduction

Guamanian Chicken is a flavorful and delicious dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a family gathering. This recipe combines the tangy flavors of lemon and lime with the savory taste of soy sauce and beer to create a mouthwatering marinade for the chicken.

History

Guamanian Chicken is a traditional dish from Guam, a small island in the Pacific Ocean. The recipe has been passed down through generations and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The combination of vinegar, soy sauce, and beer in the marinade gives the chicken a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

5 lb (2.27 kg) chicken - cut in quarters
2 whole lemons - sliced 0.25 inches thick
2 whole limes - sliced 0.25 inches thick
2 whole onions - sliced 0.25 inches thick
1 qt (946 ml) vinegar
1 qt (946 ml) soy sauce
2 cans of beer
garlic powder, salt, pepper, ground ginger - optional

How to prepare

Place a layer of chicken parts on the bottom of a small cooler. Sprinkle with generous amounts of garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ground ginger (optional).
Cover the layer with slices of lemon, lime, and onion (squeeze a couple of slices while doing so).
Add another layer of chicken and repeat the previous step.
In a separate container, mix vinegar (or white wine, or a combination), soy sauce, and beer.
Pour the entire mixture over the layered chicken, ensuring it is fully covered.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator or a cool place.
Barbecue the chicken on a Weber grill for approximately 45 minutes, or until it is cooked to your desired doneness. If using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (191°C) and cook for about an hour.
While cooking the chicken, be sure to add some smoking chips (such as mesquite, hickory, pecan, etc.) to the briquettes.

Variations

Add chopped cilantro or green onions to the marinade for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken quarters for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Adding smoking chips to the grill or oven will give the chicken a delicious smoky flavor.

- Squeezing the lemon and lime slices while layering them on the chicken will help release their juices and infuse the meat with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Guamanian Chicken with steamed white rice and a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinating the chicken for at least 24 hours is key to developing the flavors in this dish. Grilling the chicken over charcoal or wood chips will give it a delicious smoky flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have beer on hand, you can substitute chicken broth or water in the marinade. You can also use white wine instead of vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken up to 48 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Guamanian Chicken on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and sliced lemons for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Guamanian Chicken pairs well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer. Serve it with a side of coconut rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Guamanian Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Guamanian Chicken contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Guamanian Chicken contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Guamanian Chicken contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Guamanian Chicken contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Guamanian Chicken is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. Please check the label if you have a gluten allergy.

Summary

Guamanian Chicken is a protein-rich dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious meal option.

Summary

Guamanian Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a family dinner. With a tangy marinade made with lemon, lime, soy sauce, and beer, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a new family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Guamanian Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished my morning chores when my neighbor, Mrs. Rodriguez, invited me over for a cup of coffee. Mrs. Rodriguez was originally from Guam and had a wealth of knowledge when it came to cooking traditional Guamanian dishes.

As I sat at her kitchen table sipping on my coffee, Mrs. Rodriguez started telling me about her childhood in Guam and the delicious meals her mother used to make. She spoke with such passion and nostalgia that I couldn't help but feel intrigued. When she mentioned her recipe for Guamanian Chicken, my ears perked up, and I knew I had to learn more.

Mrs. Rodriguez graciously offered to teach me how to make the dish, and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, marinating the chicken, and simmering the sauce. The aromas that filled her small kitchen were intoxicating, and I could hardly wait to taste the final product.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the tender chicken coated in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and coconut milk. The flavors exploded in my mouth, and I was instantly transported to the tropical island of Guam. Mrs. Rodriguez smiled at me, pleased with my reaction, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Guamanian Chicken countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared the dish with friends and family, who always rave about its unique flavors and tender texture. I have even taught my own grandchildren how to make it, passing down the recipe from one generation to the next.

One of my favorite memories involving Guamanian Chicken was when my husband's boss came over for dinner. He was a well-traveled man who had sampled cuisines from all over the world, and I was determined to impress him with my cooking. I decided to make Guamanian Chicken, confident that its bold flavors would wow even the most discerning palate.

As I served the dish to our guest, I watched anxiously as he took his first bite. His eyes widened in surprise, and a smile spread across his face. "This is incredible," he exclaimed, reaching for seconds. I beamed with pride, knowing that I had successfully introduced him to a new and delicious dish.

In addition to impressing guests, Guamanian Chicken has also been a source of comfort for me during difficult times. Whenever I am feeling stressed or overwhelmed, I turn to this recipe as a form of therapy. The act of chopping vegetables, marinating the chicken, and letting it simmer on the stove is soothing to me, allowing me to focus my mind and find solace in the familiar flavors.

As I grow older, I find myself turning to Guamanian Chicken more and more often, seeking comfort in its warm and savory embrace. It reminds me of Mrs. Rodriguez and the day she shared her recipe with me, igniting a passion for cooking that has stayed with me ever since. I am grateful for the memories and experiences that this dish has brought into my life, and I look forward to sharing it with many more generations to come.