Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken Recipe
Why will you love this Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken recipe? First off, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is absolutely irresistible. I can’t help but feel excited every time I prepare it.
The combination of tender chicken and the zesty kick of ginger creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal waiting for you.
I love how it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve it over rice or with steamed greens, and you’ll impress your family or guests effortlessly.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation!
Ingredients of Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken
When it comes to whipping up a cozy meal, this Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken is a standout. You know that feeling when you walk into a kitchen where something delicious is simmering away? It’s like a warm hug after a long day.
The great thing about this dish is that it’s not just about the taste; it’s also about the ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that feels like you’ve been slaving away for hours. So, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring this tasty dish to life.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken pieces, on the bone
- Peanut oil
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 inches fresh ginger, peeled and cut into matchsticks
- 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock
- 3 tablespoons soft brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons shaoxing wine (or dry sherry, sake, or dry vermouth)
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 whole star anise
Now, a quick note about these ingredients. The chicken pieces can be whatever you prefer, though I find thighs are the most flavorful and juicy.
The ginger is the star of the show, so don’t skimp on that. Fresh ginger is key here; it packs a punch that dried ginger just can’t match. As for the shaoxing wine, if you don’t have it on hand, a splash of dry sherry or even vermouth will do just fine.
You want to keep the flavors rich and inviting. And don’t forget, the star anise adds a subtle warmth that ties everything together beautifully. So, gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of making Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken. Start by grabbing your 6 chicken pieces, preferably thighs, because they’re just so much tastier than breasts—sorry, chicken breasts, but it’s true!
In a heavy pan, warm up a couple of spoonfuls of peanut oil. You want it nice and hot, but not smoking, because nobody enjoys a kitchen mishap. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully lower those chicken pieces in. Let them sizzle away, turning them occasionally until they’re golden brown on all sides. It’s like a little dance party for your chicken; just don’t forget to keep an eye on them.
Once they’re looking beautiful, lift them out and set them aside in a dish.
Now, in the same pan, toss in 1 medium onion****, sliced into six pieces from tip to root. Let that onion soften in the residual oil; the aroma will start to fill your kitchen and make your mouth water.
While that’s happening, grab 2-3 inches of fresh ginger**, peel it, and cut it into matchsticks. This is where the magic begins, folks. Once the onion is soft, return the chicken to the pan along with your matchstick ginger, 500 ml of chicken or vegetable stock, 3 tablespoons of soft brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of shaoxing wine (or whatever dry wine you have on hand), 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and the star of the show—1 whole star anise**.
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it bubble away for about an hour. Don’t forget to turn the chicken just once during this time; it’s like giving it a nice little bath.
When it’s done, you’ll be greeted with a dish that’s tender, flavorful, and smells absolutely divine. Serve it up with a generous amount of sauce and some steamed greens on the side, and just like that, you’ve got yourself a comforting meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up. Enjoy the warm vibes and the satisfied belly that follows!
Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
For a different flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of pieces on the bone; they’ll stay juicy and tender. You can also swap out the peanut oil for sesame oil for a nuttier taste.
If you’re not a fan of star anise, consider adding a cinnamon stick for warmth or some crushed garlic for an extra kick.
For a lighter version, replace the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup.
And if you want to make it spicy, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken
To complement the rich, savory flavors of Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken, I love serving it with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly.
The fluffy texture of the rice balances the bold ginger and soy notes beautifully. I also enjoy adding a side of sautéed bok choy or green beans for a pop of color and crunch.
A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar adds a revitalizing contrast to the dish. If I’m feeling indulgent, I might whip up some crispy spring rolls as a starter.
The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful meal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me; these sides enhance the ginger chicken experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing Slow Cooked Ginger Chicken, a few tips can enhance your cooking experience and final dish. First, don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds a rich depth of flavor.
If you want extra heat, consider adding sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce. For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to let it reduce.
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them. For a twist, try adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers in the final hour of cooking.
Finally, serve it with rice or noodles to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your cooking!