If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and has the perfect balance of spice and sweetness, then this Spicy Ginger Chicken Delight is a must-try. The tender chicken pieces are coated in a crispy cornstarch coating, then tossed in a bold and tangy spicy ginger sauce. It’s quick, easy, and full of vibrant flavors that’ll surely satisfy your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this recipe because it’s not only packed with bold, savory, and spicy flavors, but it’s also super versatile. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili and sriracha to suit your taste. The crispy chicken pairs perfectly with the fragrant, thick sauce, and when you serve it with steamed rice or noodles, it makes for a delightful meal. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re in the mood for something flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
500 g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Spicy Ginger Sauce:
2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tbsp sriracha or chili paste (adjust for spice level)
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Toss the chicken with cornstarch for a light coating.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed.
Sauté ginger, garlic, and chili for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sriracha, sesame oil, and chicken broth. Stir well.
Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.
Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce.
Simmer for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or with stir-fried vegetables.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 4 people. The total cooking time is around 25–30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Variations
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili and sriracha based on how spicy you like your dish. For a milder version, you can skip the sriracha or use a smaller amount.
Vegetables: I like to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and color. Feel free to include any veggies you enjoy.
Protein Swap: If you’re not a fan of chicken, this recipe also works well with shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Storage/Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I often prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to cook the chicken.
Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for the best texture and flavor, but if you use frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free version and make sure your sriracha and other condiments are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze this dish?
While the chicken can be frozen, the sauce might not maintain its perfect consistency after freezing. I recommend freezing the chicken separately and making fresh sauce when you reheat it.
What’s a good side dish to serve with this?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables. You can even serve it over noodles for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
This Spicy Ginger Chicken Delight is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy chicken, paired with the zesty ginger sauce, creates a meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick to make, so it’s ideal for busy nights when I want something delicious without a lot of fuss. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your rotation!
📖 Recipe:
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Spicy Ginger Chicken Delight
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- Author: Isabella
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A bold and tangy dish with crispy chicken coated in a spicy ginger sauce. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal with adjustable spice levels.
Ingredients
500 g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
1 tbsp sriracha or chili paste (adjust for spice level)
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Toss the chicken with cornstarch for a light coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté ginger, garlic, and chili for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sriracha, sesame oil, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce.
- Simmer for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or with stir-fried vegetables.
Notes
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili and sriracha.
For extra crunch and color, add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
This recipe can be made with shrimp, tofu, or beef as protein alternatives.
If storing leftovers, refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg