Chinese Garlic Chicken

Imagine the inviting aroma of sizzling garlic in your kitchen. It instantly takes you to your favorite Chinese restaurant. This homemade Chinese garlic chicken celebrates bold flavors and brings back happy memories of family dinners.

Cooking can be a simple pleasure. With this easy Chinese garlic chicken recipe, you can make a delicious meal even on busy days. So, grab your apron and get ready to make a colorful, tasty dish that will impress everyone!

Key Takeaways

  • Homemade Chinese garlic chicken is both quick and convenient.
  • This dish highlights the rich flavors of garlic with minimal ingredients.
  • You can easily customize the recipe using pantry staples.
  • It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
  • Pair it with rice or veggies for a fulfilling meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for the best Chinese garlic chicken is a delightful option for any meal. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a busy weeknight. You’ll love how easy it is to make in about 30 minutes.

Quick & easy—ready in about 30 minutes

Our fast-paced lives make quick recipes essential. This simple Chinese garlic chicken is a reliable choice. It’s ready in no time, so you can enjoy your evening without delay.

Big garlic flavor with minimal ingredients

This flavorful Chinese garlic chicken is all about the garlic. It’s packed with flavor, thanks to just a few basic ingredients. No need for fancy spices or sauces here.

Uses simple pantry staples for authentic Chinese taste

Using simple pantry staples makes cooking authentic Chinese food easy. You can make a restaurant-quality meal at home. This recipe shows how accessible and enjoyable homemade dishes can be, impressing everyone.

Chinese Garlic Chicken Recipe

Making authentic Chinese garlic chicken at home is fun and easy. You just need a few ingredients. Follow these simple steps to make your own homemade Chinese garlic chicken.

Ingredients You'll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Salt, to taste
  • Ground white pepper, to taste
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Oil, for frying
  • 4 cloves garlic, sliced
  • 3 scallions, cut into batons
  • 2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • A pinch of sugar

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or skillet. Add the chicken pieces and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden and cooked. Fry in batches if needed. Once done, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
3. Wipe the wok with a paper towel. Add a little oil and stir-fry the garlic and scallions for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the rice wine, soy sauce, sugar, and a pinch of white pepper. Heat through and return the chicken to the pan. Mix well with the sauce.
4. Serve over rice or as a delightful finger food. Enjoy!
Chinese Garlic Chicken

Recipe Notes & Variations

Customizing your easy Chinese garlic chicken lets you tailor it to your liking. You can add more spice, switch proteins, or make it gluten-free. All without losing the delicious taste.

Spicier? Add chili flakes or drizzle chili oil

Want a bit of heat? Try adding chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil. This will boost the flavor of your easy Chinese garlic chicken. Just remember, you can always add more, but it’s harder to take it away.

Swap chicken thighs for breast or firm tofu

Looking for a lighter option? Use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Or, for a meat-free choice, firm tofu is a great protein source. It keeps the dish’s rich flavor.

For gluten-free, substitute coconut aminos

Need a gluten-free version? Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. It adds a sweet and savory taste, making your gluten-free Chinese garlic chicken a hit.

IngredientOriginalVariation
ProteinChicken thighsChicken breasts or firm tofu
FlavorClassic soy sauceCoconut aminos (gluten-free)
HeatNo spiceChili flakes or chili oil

Recipe Stats

This simple Chinese garlic chicken recipe is quick and easy. It only takes 30 minutes to cook, perfect for busy nights. It serves four people and has about 280 calories per serving, great for family meals.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 30 min

Serves 4 · ≈ 280 kcal per serving

Preparation TimeCooking TimeTotal TimeServingsCalories per Serving
15 min15 min30 min4≈ 280 kcal
easy Chinese garlic chicken

Serving Suggestions

When you make homemade Chinese garlic chicken, think about serving it with sides that make the meal better. The chicken goes well with many foods, making your meal more fun.

Pair with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice

Steamed jasmine rice is a great choice. It soaks up the sauce, balancing the chicken’s garlic taste. For a fuller meal, try fried rice with eggs and veggies. It makes the dish even more satisfying.

Add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for color & nutrition

Adding colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli makes your dish look and taste better. They add freshness and crunch, contrasting nicely with the chicken. Your Chinese garlic chicken will look amazing with these healthy additions.

Make‑Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Planning ahead can make cooking easier, like with easy Chinese garlic chicken. Storing it right keeps your chicken tasty all week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers.

Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days

After making your easy Chinese garlic chicken, let it cool. Then, put it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and stops fridge odors. Your chicken stays good for three days, perfect for a quick meal.

Freeze portions for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat over medium heat

Freezing extends your chicken’s life. Portion it out and freeze in safe containers. It lasts up to a month. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge and reheat in a pan over medium heat.

Tips for Perfect Chinese Garlic Chicken

Making the best Chinese garlic chicken takes focus and a few tricks. Follow these tips to make your dish stand out. It will have strong flavors and great textures. Your Chinese garlic chicken will wow everyone who tastes it.

Use fresh garlic, slice—not mince—for better texture

Choose fresh garlic for its bold taste. Slice the garlic instead of mincing it. This keeps the texture chunky, which looks and tastes great with the chicken. It lets the garlic flavor the chicken well without being too much.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches for crispness

Frying too much chicken at once can make it steam instead of fry. This ruins the texture. Fry your chicken in batches to give it enough room. This way, you get the crispy, golden-brown texture that’s key to the best Chinese garlic chicken.

Adjust soy sauce or sugar to balance saltiness and sweetness

Getting the flavors just right is crucial. Adjust the soy sauce or sugar to your liking. This lets you make your Chinese garlic chicken exactly how you prefer it. It makes the dish more enjoyable for everyone.

delicious chinese chicken

Conclusion

The Chinese Garlic Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to try homemade Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to impress family and friends.

This dish is quick to make and uses ingredients you likely have on hand. The garlic adds a wonderful aroma and taste. It shows that you don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to enjoy authentic flavors.

So why wait? Get your ingredients ready and make this delicious Chinese garlic chicken. You’ll have fun making it, and your taste buds will love it!

Looking for more flavor-packed dishes to elevate your weeknight dinners? Try our Easy Mongolian Beef, Huli Huli Chicken, or Thai Coconut Curry Mussels for an exciting twist on your meal rotation. And don’t forget to check out our Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes for the ultimate side dish pairing.

Chinese Garlic Chicken Recipe

Chinese Garlic Chicken

Treat your taste buds to the bold and savory flavors of our Chinese Garlic Chicken—crispy, juicy, and packed with garlicky goodness in every bite!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Salt to taste
  • Ground white pepper to taste
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • Oil for frying
  • 4 cloves garlic sliced
  • 3 scallions cut into batons
  • 2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • A pinch of sugar

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess. Set aside.
  • Heat oil in a wok or skillet. Add the chicken pieces and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden and cooked. Fry in batches if needed. Once done, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
  • Wipe the wok with a paper towel. Add a little oil and stir-fry the garlic and scallions for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the rice wine, soy sauce, sugar, and a pinch of white pepper. Heat through and return the chicken to the pan. Mix well with the sauce.
  • Serve over rice or as a delightful finger food. Enjoy!

Notes

Notes:
For a spicier kick, add a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Keyword authentic chinese garlic chicken, chinese garlic chicken recipe, easy chinese garlic chicken, homemade chinese garlic chicken

FAQ

What is Chinese Garlic Chicken?

Chinese Garlic Chicken is a tasty dish with tender chicken and a rich garlic sauce. It’s easy to make and tastes like real Chinese food. It’s great for a quick dinner.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

You can make this easy Chinese garlic chicken in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal fast.

Can I make Chinese Garlic Chicken vegetarian?

Yes! You can use firm tofu instead of chicken. Tofu takes on the garlic flavor well and is very satisfying.

What ingredients do I need for a flavorful Chinese garlic chicken?

You’ll need boneless skinless chicken thighs, fresh garlic, soy sauce, and cornstarch. These simple ingredients let the garlic shine.

Any tips for making the best Chinese Garlic Chicken?

Use fresh garlic sliced, not minced, for better texture and taste. Also, fry the chicken in batches to get it crispy.

How should I store leftovers of Chinese Garlic Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze it for up to a month if you want. Reheat it over medium heat for the best taste.

Can I adjust the flavors in this dish?

Yes! You can change the soy sauce or sugar to make it taste just right for you. This way, your dish will be exactly how you like it.

What can I serve with Chinese Garlic Chicken?

Serve it with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. Adding colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli makes the meal even better.

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