Hoisin Glazed Chicken Recipe

Hoisin Glazed Chicken is a flavorful and savory dish that combines the richness of hoisin sauce with the succulence of tender chicken breasts.

The glaze, made from a blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, imparts a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors to the chicken. To prepare this dish, the chicken breasts are first seasoned with salt and pepper, then marinated in the hoisin glaze to allow the flavors to infuse and enhance the meat.

The chicken is then seared to create a delicious caramelized exterior before being baked to perfection in the oven. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a glossy, sticky exterior from the glazed caramelization.

The aromatic combination of garlic and ginger adds depth to the dish, while the sesame oil provides a hint of nuttiness. Garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds a final touch of freshness and texture.

This Hoisin Glazed Chicken can be served over rice or alongside your favorite side dishes, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds with its delightful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors.

Here’s a simple and delicious Hoisin Glazed Chicken recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Step By Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
   • Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Hoisin Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. This will be your glaze.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
   • Pour half of the hoisin glaze over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
   • Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. You can also marinate it overnight for more flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Heat vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
5. Glaze and Bake:
   • Pour the remaining hoisin glaze over the seared chicken.
   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through the baking time.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven.
   • Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
   • Serve the Hoisin Glazed Chicken over rice or with your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy your delicious Hoisin Glazed Chicken! Adjust the seasoning and ingredients according to your taste preferences.

Variations of Hoisin Glazed Chicken

Vegetarian Options

For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same marination and cooking process. The result is a delicious vegetarian alternative packed with flavor.

Different Protein Choices

Experiment with different protein options such as shrimp, beef, or pork for a unique twist on this classic dish. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein choice.

Flavor Enhancements

Enhance the flavor of hoisin glazed chicken by adding additional ingredients such as chili flakes for heat, lime juice for tanginess, or honey for extra sweetness. Get creative with the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

History of Hoisin Glazed Chicken

Hoisin glazed chicken traces its roots back to Chinese cuisine, where hoisin sauce has been used for centuries as a condiment and flavor enhancer. The exact origin of this dish is unclear, but it has become a popular menu item in Chinese restaurants worldwide.

FAQs

1. What does hoisin sauce taste like?
   • Hoisin sauce has a rich, sweet, and savory flavor with hints of garlic, soy, and spices.
2. Can I make hoisin sauce at home?
   • Yes, hoisin sauce can be made at home using ingredients like soy sauce, peanut butter, honey, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder.
3. Is hoisin glazed chicken healthy?
   • While hoisin glazed chicken is delicious, it may not be the healthiest option due to its sugar content. However, you can make healthier versions by using less sugar and opting for lean protein sources.
4. Can I use hoisin glaze for other dishes?
   • Yes, hoisin glaze can be used as a marinade or sauce for various dishes such as pork ribs, tofu, vegetables, and stir-fries.
5. How long does hoisin glazed chicken last in the fridge?
   • Hoisin glazed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is properly cooled before storing to maintain freshness.

In conclusion, hoisin glazed chicken offers a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With simple ingredients and versatile cooking methods, this dish is perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.