Delicious and Sticky Caramel Chicken Recipe

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

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add sugar and water.
6. Cook over medium-high heat until the sugar melts and turns amber in color, about 5 minutes.
7. Carefully add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
8. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the caramel sauce.
10. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
11. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

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