Savory Caramelized Chicken Stir-Fry
This Savory Caramelized Chicken Stir-Fry is a deliciously balanced dish that combines tender chicken breast with a rich, sweet, and savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and can be served over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. My husband raved about the flavors and kept asking for more, so you might want to double the recipe if you're serving a hungry crowd!
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken breasts
2 (cut into thin strips)
sugar
1 tablespoon (for caramelizing)
soy sauce
4 tablespoons (for added flavor)
fish sauce
1 teaspoon (optional, for depth of flavor)
water
1 cup (for simmering)
pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
In a large frying pan or wok, melt the sugar over medium heat until it begins to caramelize, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
2
Add the sliced chicken to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, ensuring all the pieces are well-coated with the caramel.
3
Stir in the soy sauce and optional fish sauce. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes until the chicken is coated in the sauce and starts to absorb the flavors.
4
Pour in the water and sprinkle with pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, covering the pan to trap the heat, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is cooked through.
5
For a saucier dish, reduce the simmering time or decrease the initial amount of water to your preference.
6
Serve the caramelized chicken over freshly cooked rice. Add steamed or stir-fried vegetables drizzled with oyster sauce on the side, along with a touch of diluted nuoc nam to elevate the dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Caramelized Chicken Stir-Fry?
It is a deliciously balanced dish that combines tender chicken breast with a rich, sweet, and savory sauce.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 2 servings.
What type of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 chicken breasts cut into thin strips.
How much sugar is needed for the caramel?
You will need 1 tablespoon of sugar.
What is the first step in the instructions?
Melt the sugar in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat until it begins to caramelize.
How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
Stir the sugar occasionally while it is melting.
How long do I stir-fry the chicken in the caramel?
Stir-fry the chicken for about 2 minutes until the pieces are well-coated.
When do I add the soy sauce?
Add the soy sauce after the chicken has been coated in the caramelized sugar.
Is fish sauce mandatory for this recipe?
No, fish sauce is optional but can be added for depth of flavor.
How long do I cook the chicken after adding the sauces?
Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes until the chicken starts to absorb the flavors.
How much water is added for simmering?
The recipe requires 1 cup of water.
When should I add the pepper?
Sprinkle with pepper at the same time you pour in the water.
How long should the chicken simmer?
Let it cook for about 15 minutes while covered.
Why should I cover the pan during simmering?
Covering the pan helps trap the heat to ensure the chicken cooks through.
How can I make the dish saucier?
You can reduce the simmering time or decrease the initial amount of water.
What is the suggested serving method?
Serve the caramelized chicken over freshly cooked rice.
What side dishes go well with this stir-fry?
Steamed or stir-fried vegetables drizzled with oyster sauce are recommended.
What can I add to elevate the dish's flavor at the end?
A touch of diluted nuoc nam can be used to elevate the final dish.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is a quick meal that comes together easily.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, doubling the recipe is recommended if you are serving a hungry crowd.
What is the ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 6 primary ingredients used in this recipe.
What are the main flavor profiles of the sauce?
The sauce is a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
What equipment is best for cooking this stir-fry?
A large frying pan or a wok is ideal.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include chicken breast, stir-fry, caramelized chicken, quick meal, dinner, asian cuisine, easy recipe, and family-friendly.
How much soy sauce is required?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of soy sauce.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it is described as a family-friendly dish that kids and adults will enjoy.
What is the recommended preparation for the chicken breasts?
They should be cut into thin strips.
Does the recipe contain fiber?
Fiber information is not provided in the nutritional data for this specific recipe.
How much fish sauce should be used?
Use 1 teaspoon of fish sauce if you choose to include it.
What heat setting should be used for caramelizing sugar?
Medium heat is recommended for melting the sugar.