Honey soy chicken marinade and sauce preparation

Honey Soy Chicken – Marinade and Sauce

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Honey Soy Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for many. The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with rich flavors. Grilled to perfection, this recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

how to make Honey Soy Chicken

Ingredients :

  • 1.25 – 1.5 kg/ 2.5 – 3 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs OR breast (Note 1)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (all purpose or light, not dark, Note 2)
  • 2/3 cup honey (sub maple syrup)
  • 1/3 cup cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • 1/4 cup Chinese cooking wine or dry sherry (key ingredient, Note 3)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (toasted, Note 4)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp garlic (finely minced)
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1 1/2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch
  • Green onion (finely sliced)
  • Sesame seeds

Directions :

Marinade Sauce:

  1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, cider vinegar, Chinese cooking wine, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
  2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Serving Sauce (Makes 1 cup):

  1. After marinating, remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In another saucepan, combine the leftover marinade with water.
  3. Mix in the cornflour/cornstarch to thicken the sauce while stirring over medium heat until it boils and thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Cook:

  1. Preheat the grill to a medium-high heat.
  2. Lightly oil the grill grates with vegetable oil.
  3. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through.
  4. Brush the thickened serving sauce onto the chicken in the last few minutes of cooking.

how to serve Honey Soy Chicken

Once the chicken is grilled, slice it and serve it warm. Drizzle the thickened serving sauce over the top. Garnish with finely sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch. This chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fresh salads.

how to store Honey Soy Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze any leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Honey Soy Chicken

  1. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible.
  2. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F).
  3. For added flavor, consider adding sliced ginger to the marinade.

variation

If you want to switch things up, try using different proteins like pork or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add additional spices like chili flakes for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken pieces for this recipe?
A: Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as bone-in pieces take longer to cook through.

Q: What if I don’t have Chinese cooking wine?
A: You can substitute with dry sherry or omit it entirely, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: Is there a gluten-free alternative?
A: Yes, you can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free soy sauce substitute.