Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts

Soy-Glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts Recipe from China

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of soy sauce with the sweetness of brown sugar and the crunch of water chestnuts. The chicken is baked to perfection and then broiled to crisp up the skin, creating a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Asian flavors, combining classic ingredients like soy sauce and ginger with the convenience of canned water chestnuts. The glaze adds a rich and savory element to the dish, while the addition of peas and water chestnuts provides a satisfying crunch and texture.

Ingredients

0.5 cup soy sauce
0.25 cup dark brown sugar
0.5 tsp ground ginger
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp dark Asian sesame oil
2 tsp cornstarch
4 lb (1.81 kg) chicken, cut up
3 oz (85 g) snow peas, strings removed
8 oz (227 g) can sliced water chestnuts, drained

How to prepare

In a saucepan, whisk together the first 6 ingredients and cook until the glaze thickens, approximately 2 minutes.
Place the chicken, skin side up, on a rack in a baking pan.
Brush the chicken with some of the glaze.
Bake the chicken in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 45 minutes.
Brush the chicken with glaze every 10 minutes while baking.
Stop glazing the chicken 5 minutes before the end of the baking time.
Broil the chicken for 5 minutes to crisp the skin.
Prepare couscous according to the package directions, using water, and add peas and water chestnuts.
Serve the chicken on a platter with the couscous.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Add diced bell peppers or broccoli for extra vegetables.
Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brush the chicken with the glaze every 10 minutes while baking to ensure that it stays moist and flavorful.

- Broiling the chicken at the end of the cooking time helps to crisp up the skin and adds a delicious caramelized flavor.

- Be sure to drain the water chestnuts well before adding them to the couscous to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include baking, broiling, and glazing the chicken to create a crispy and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar.

- Use olive oil or vegetable oil instead of sesame oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the glaze and marinate the chicken in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs or sesame seeds for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 35 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With a flavorful glaze, tender chicken, and crunchy water chestnuts, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my grandmother, passed down through generations. The pages were yellowed and well-worn, filled with handwritten notes and splatters of ingredients from years of use.

As I read through the instructions, I could almost smell the savory aroma of the dish simmering on the stove. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey promised a flavor that was both familiar and exotic. I knew I had to try it.

I had always been drawn to the art of cooking, a passion that was instilled in me by my own mother. She taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients, of letting flavors meld together, of creating dishes that not only nourished the body but also warmed the soul. And so, armed with this newfound recipe, I set out to recreate the flavors of a far-off land in my own kitchen.

I gathered the ingredients, carefully measuring out each one as I prepared to embark on this culinary journey. The chicken thighs were marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey, allowing the flavors to seep into the meat and infuse it with their richness. The water chestnuts added a satisfying crunch, while the peas brought a pop of color to the dish.

As the chicken cooked on the stove, the scent of garlic and ginger filled the air, mingling with the sweet aroma of soy sauce. I could hardly wait to taste the finished product, to see if I had successfully captured the essence of this exotic dish.

When the time came to serve the Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts, I was met with eager anticipation from my family. They knew that whenever I tried a new recipe, it was sure to be a culinary delight. And this dish did not disappoint.

The first bite was a revelation, a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds. The salty tang of the soy sauce melded seamlessly with the sweetness of the honey, while the garlic and ginger added a subtle warmth to the dish. The water chestnuts provided a satisfying crunch, while the peas burst with freshness in every bite.

As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I had successfully recreated a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own touch to make it their own. And now, it was my turn to carry on that tradition, to share this delicious dish with my own loved ones.

As I sat at the table with my family, enjoying the meal we had created together, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking. It had brought us together, allowed us to share in the joy of creating something delicious and nourishing. And as I looked around at the smiling faces of my family, I knew that this recipe would be one that we would cherish for years to come.

And so, as I finished the last bite of Soy-glazed Chicken with Peas and Water Chestnuts, I made a silent vow to continue exploring the world of cooking, to seek out new recipes and flavors that would bring joy and warmth to our home. For in the kitchen, surrounded by loved ones and the aroma of delicious food, I knew that I had found my true passion.