This recipe elevates the humble chicken dish to a fragrant and flavourful experience. Imagine tender, juicy chicken braised in a rich, aromatic sauce infused with the bright citrus notes of lemongrass and a subtle kick of chili. This isn't your average chicken recipe; it's a journey for your taste buds, taking you to the vibrant streets of Southeast Asia with every bite. The complex interplay of sweet, savory, and spicy elements creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Forget bland, boring chicken dinners. This Braised Chicken with Lemongrass & Chili is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. The fragrant lemongrass and zesty chili peppers create a surprisingly addictive sauce that perfectly complements the succulent chicken. Ready to transform your weeknight meal into a flavorful feast? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and begin creating this culinary masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Chicken: approx. 1kg
- Lemongrass
- Garlic
- Shallots
- Chili peppers: 2 minced
- Seasoning powder
- Sugar: a little
- MSG: a little
- Fish sauce: a little
- Cooking oil
- Fried flour
- Chicken chili seasoning: a little
- Vegetables (e.g., squash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken
- Separate the chicken breast from the rest of the chicken. Cut the breast into bite-sized pieces and set aside for frying.
- Cut the remaining chicken into pieces.
- Marinate the chicken pieces with lemongrass, garlic, shallots, chili peppers, seasoning powder, sugar, MSG, fish sauce, cooking oil, and chicken chili seasoning. Marinate for about 30 minutes.
Step 2. Fry the Chicken Breast
- Roll the chicken breast pieces in fried flour.
- Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3. Braise the Chicken
- In a pot, add the marinated chicken and stir constantly over high heat for about 5 minutes until the pieces firm up.
- Add boiling water to the chicken, ensuring the temperature remains high. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the water thickens and the chicken is cooked.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the braised chicken with boiled vegetables.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- For the fried chicken, adjust the amount of flour for your preferred thickness.
- When frying potatoes, ensure the oil is very hot for extra crispy results.
- Add boiling water to the braised chicken to maintain a high temperature and prevent the chicken from becoming tough.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 30-45g
- Carbs: 40-60g
- Protein: 50-60g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh or dried lemongrass?
Fresh lemongrass is preferred for its superior aroma and flavor. If using dried, use about 1/3 the amount.
2. How can I make the fried chicken extra crispy?
Ensure your chicken is completely dry before breading and frying. Use a high-heat oil and don't overcrowd the pan. Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
This recipe offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, showcasing the versatility of chicken in a single meal. From the tender, aromatic braised chicken to the satisfyingly crisp fried pieces, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!