Hunan Chicken is a flavourful and mildly spicy dish that originates from Hunan province in China. Known for its rich, savoury, and slightly smoky taste, Hunan Chicken is a popular choice for those who love bold flavours without excessive heat. In this blog, we will explore the step-by-step process of making a delicious Hunan Chicken at home while optimizing it for SEO.
Ingredients Needed for Hunan Chicken
To make an authentic and mouth-watering Hunan Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot (julienned)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (dissolved in 1 tablespoon water)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional for extra spice)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hunan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, coat the sliced chicken with cornstarch and a tablespoon of soy sauce. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes for extra tenderness.
Step 2: Make the Stir-fry Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli, bell peppers, julienned carrots, and onions. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pan.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top.
- Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
Pro Tips for the Best Hunan Chicken
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili flakes and omit the chili paste.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and high-quality soy sauce will enhance the overall flavor.
- Velvet the chicken: Coating the chicken with cornstarch before cooking keeps it tender and juicy.
- Cook on high heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve the signature smoky flavour.
This Hunan Chicken recipe is quick, easy, and packed with bold flavours. The combination of crispy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savoury sauce makes it a restaurant-quality dish you can prepare in just 30 minutes.
Now that you know how to make Hunan Chicken at home, give this recipe a try and impress your family with your cooking skills. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you make in the comments below!
