Sticky Chicken

Sticky Chicken Recipe from Hungary

Region / culture: Hungary | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sticky Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken with flavorful rice and vegetables for a satisfying and hearty meal.

History

Sticky Chicken is a traditional Hungarian dish that has been passed down through generations. It is a popular comfort food that is often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of lard
1 chicken, cut up or the equivalent chicken parts, with skin on (do not use boneless chicken)
1 large onion, peeled and chopped
2 cups of raw white rice, washed in cold water and slightly drained
1 heaping tablespoon of hungarian paprika
1.5 tsp of salt
1 small green or banana pepper, chopped
1 bay leaf
1.5 cups of water
6 fresh tomatoes, peeled and seeded, chopped

How to prepare

Use a heavy black iron pot with a heavy lid.
Put 0.5 cup of lard into the pot and brown all sides of chicken legs, wings, breasts, backs, etc.
If you have liver and gizzards, use them as well.
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, sauté 1 chopped onion along with 2 cups of rinsed raw rice.
Sauté the rice and onion until the onion becomes transparent.
Stir in 1 heaping tablespoon of Hungarian paprika and 1.5 tsp of salt.
Add 1 chopped green pepper and one can of whole tomatoes (not drained, but pulled apart) to the pot.
Throw in 1 bay leaf and mix the rice and vegetable mixture.
Now layer the browned chicken into the rice and vegetable mixture.
Scoop up some rice mixture and place the chicken underneath, then repeat the process.
Give the pot a shake to settle everything.
Start simmering the pot on moderate heat on the stovetop. Once it starts to cook, lower the heat and cover it. Do not lift the cover for at least 60 minutes.
Slowly cook the dish, giving it a shake once in a while, but do not uncover.
Use the lowest heat possible. You can hear if it is cooking.
Adjust the salt seasoning. The dish should not be sloppy like a stew; it should be moist.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery to the rice and vegetable mixture for added flavor and texture.
Use different spices such as cumin or turmeric for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a heavy black iron pot with a heavy lid for best results.

- Brown the chicken on all sides before adding it to the rice and vegetable mixture.

- Do not lift the cover of the pot while the dish is cooking to ensure that the chicken stays moist and tender.

- Adjust the salt seasoning to taste and make sure the dish is not too watery.

Serving Suggestions

Sticky Chicken can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Sticky Chicken is to cook it slowly on low heat with the lid on. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have lard, you can use vegetable oil or butter for browning the chicken. You can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken.

Make Ahead Tips

Sticky Chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sticky Chicken in a large serving dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top for a pop of color. You can also garnish it with a lemon wedge for a burst of citrus flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Sticky Chicken pairs well with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious sauce. It also goes well with a side of pickles or sauerkraut for a tangy contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Sticky Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sticky Chicken contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

The main sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the rice and vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The lard used for browning the chicken adds richness and flavor to the dish. Each serving contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Chicken is a great source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

The vegetables in this dish provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and peppers. Each serving also contains iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken and lard, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Sticky Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner.

Summary

Sticky Chicken is a classic Hungarian dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and vegetables, this dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a warm summer day many years ago when I stumbled upon the secret to making the most delicious Sticky Chicken I had ever tasted. The scent of garlic and soy sauce filled the air as I wandered through the bustling streets of a small village in China.

I had always been a lover of food, and my travels had taken me to many exotic places in search of new and exciting flavors. On this particular day, I found myself drawn to a tiny, unassuming restaurant nestled in a narrow alleyway. The tantalizing aroma wafting from the open kitchen window beckoned me inside.

As I sat at a small wooden table, a kind elderly woman emerged from the kitchen, carrying a steaming platter of Sticky Chicken. She smiled warmly at me and placed the dish in front of me, urging me to try a bite. I took a hesitant forkful and was immediately transported to culinary heaven.

The chicken was tender and juicy, coated in a sticky, sweet and savory glaze that danced on my taste buds. I knew in that moment that I had to learn the secret behind this delectable dish.

I asked the elderly woman if she would be willing to share her recipe with me, and to my delight, she agreed. She led me into the kitchen and began to teach me the intricate steps of creating Sticky Chicken.

First, she marinated the chicken in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey. The fragrant mixture lingered in the air as she expertly coated each piece of chicken, ensuring that it was fully infused with flavor.

Next, she seared the chicken in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and caramelized. The sizzle of the chicken as it cooked filled the kitchen with a symphony of sounds that made my mouth water in anticipation.

Finally, she poured a sticky glaze made from brown sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar over the chicken, allowing it to simmer until it had thickened into a luscious coating that clung to the chicken like a sweet embrace.

I watched in awe as the elderly woman worked her magic, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. She explained each step to me in detail, ensuring that I understood the importance of patience and precision in the art of cooking.

After hours of preparation and anticipation, the Sticky Chicken was finally ready. I eagerly took a bite, savoring the tender meat and sticky glaze that coated my lips. The flavors exploded in my mouth, sending me on a journey of culinary delight that I would never forget.

As I thanked the elderly woman for her generosity and wisdom, she smiled and patted my hand affectionately. She knew that I would carry her recipe with me wherever my travels took me, sharing the secret of Sticky Chicken with all who were lucky enough to taste it.

And so, that day marked the beginning of my love affair with Sticky Chicken. It has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a dish that never fails to bring joy and comfort to those who taste it. The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of food to connect us all in a shared love of delicious flavors and cherished traditions.