Enjoy the perfect combination of savory and sweet with Chef John's Caramel Chicken recipe. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a luscious caramel sauce that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. The result is a sticky, flavorful, and absolutely delicious chicken dish that will impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this amazing caramel chicken at home.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sugar and water.
- Cook over medium-high heat until the sugar melts and turns amber in color, about 5 minutes.
- Carefully add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the caramel sauce.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Interesting Facts
Caramel chicken is a popular street food in Vietnam.
The caramel sauce used in this recipe adds richness and depth of flavor to the chicken.
You can serve this dish with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Leftovers of this caramel chicken make a delicious filling for sandwiches or wraps the next day.