Oriental Chicken with Rice

Chinese Chicken with Rice Recipe | Easy & Quick Asian-Inspired Meal

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Oriental Chicken with Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a savory sauce, served over hot cooked rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it is easy to make and full of delicious flavors.

History

The origins of Oriental Chicken with Rice are not clear, but it is believed to be a fusion of Asian and Western flavors. This dish has become popular in many households due to its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of choice chicken pieces
salt and ground black pepper to taste
3 tbsp of vegetable oil
1 cup of boiling water
1 8 oz (227 g) can of tomato sauce
1 cup of sliced green onions
1 cup of chopped celery
1 2 oz (57 g) can of sliced mushrooms with liquid
1 tbsp of cornstarch
3 tbsp of soy sauce
2 cups of hot cooked rice
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley

How to prepare

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook them in oil until they are browned on all sides, turning occasionally. Drain off any excess fat. Pour water over the chicken and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
Stir in tomato sauce, onions, celery, mushrooms, and liquid. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Blend cornstarch and soy sauce together. Gradually pour the mixture into the chicken mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened and smooth.
Serve the chicken mixture over fluffy rice and garnish with parsley.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and flavor.
Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken pieces well before cooking to enhance the flavor.

- Be sure to brown the chicken pieces on all sides to lock in the juices and create a crispy exterior.

- Gradually pour the cornstarch and soy sauce mixture into the chicken mixture to prevent lumps from forming.

- Garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Oriental Chicken with Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the chicken in water to ensure it is tender and juicy.

- Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch and soy sauce mixture for a smooth and velvety texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken pieces.

- Substitute low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving over hot cooked rice.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Oriental Chicken with Rice in a large serving bowl, garnished with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Oriental Chicken with Rice with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Oriental Chicken with Rice contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Oriental Chicken with Rice contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Oriental Chicken with Rice contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Oriental Chicken with Rice contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Oriental Chicken with Rice is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Oriental Chicken with Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Oriental Chicken with Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken pieces, savory sauce, and fluffy rice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Oriental Chicken with Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Lee, who had recently returned from a trip to Asia. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and catching up on each other's lives, Mrs. Lee suddenly pulled out a tattered old cookbook from her suitcase.

"Ah, I almost forgot," she exclaimed, flipping through the pages with a smile. "I brought back a new recipe for you to try. It's a traditional dish from China that I learned how to make while I was there."

I leaned in closer, intrigued by the exotic ingredients and intricate instructions that filled the pages. The recipe called for tender pieces of chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then stir-fried with crisp vegetables and served over a bed of fluffy white rice. It sounded absolutely delicious.

Mrs. Lee noticed my interest and chuckled softly. "I thought you might like this one. It's a family favorite of mine, passed down through generations. I'm sure you'll love it just as much as I do."

And she was right. From the moment I took my first bite of that savory, fragrant dish, I was hooked. The flavors danced on my tongue, the textures melted in my mouth, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the next few weeks, Mrs. Lee became my mentor, guiding me through the steps of preparing the Oriental Chicken with Rice. She showed me how to properly marinate the chicken, how to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and salty in the sauce, and how to stir-fry the vegetables to just the right level of crispness.

As I practiced and honed my skills in the kitchen, I began to add my own personal touch to the recipe. I experimented with different spices and seasonings, adjusting the proportions to suit my taste. And with each batch I cooked, the dish became more and more my own.

Years passed, and I continued to make Oriental Chicken with Rice for my family and friends, delighting in their praises and compliments. It became a staple on our dinner table, a dish that signified love, tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

But it wasn't just the recipe itself that held a special place in my heart. It was the memories that came with it - the laughter shared around the table, the stories told over steaming bowls of rice, the bonds strengthened through the simple act of breaking bread together.

And as I grew older, I realized that the true beauty of cooking lies not just in the taste of the food, but in the connections it creates between people. Through this recipe, I was able to bridge the gap between cultures, to honor the traditions of the past while embracing the flavors of the present.

So now, whenever I make Oriental Chicken with Rice, I think of Mrs. Lee and the day she introduced me to this wonderful dish. I think of the joy it brings to my loved ones, the memories we create around the dinner table, and the legacy I am passing down to future generations.

And as I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I am reminded of the power of food to bring us together, to nourish not just our bodies, but our souls as well. And for that, I am eternally grateful.