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Spicy Caramel Chicken

Spicy Caramel Chicken is a delectable and flavorful dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of caramel with the bold and fiery kick of spicy chili. This dish originates from the vibrant and diverse cuisine of Southeast Asia, where caramel is often used in savory dishes to add depth and complexity to the flavors. The combination of tender chicken, rich caramel sauce, and fiery chili creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

10 mins

Additional Time:

24 mins

Total Time:

49 mins

Servings:

Yield:

4 servings

Ingredients

2 tablespoons finely grated fresh ginger

4 cloves finely minced garlic

¾ cup light brown sugar

⅓ cup rice vinegar

⅓ cup fish sauce

2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce, or to taste

1 teaspoon soy sauce

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

½ cup sliced, seeded jalapeno peppers

½ cup sliced, seeded mild red chilies or bell peppers

½ cup roasted peanuts

½ cup chopped green onions, plus more for garnish

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

4 cups cooked white rice

Directions

Step 1

Whisk grated ginger, garlic, brown sugar, rice vinegar, fish sauce, hot sauce, and soy sauce together in a large bowl.

Step 2

Place chicken chunks in a bowl. Pour 1/4 cup of the prepared sauce onto chicken chunks; mix until all chicken pieces are coated. Set aside 15 minutes.

Step 3

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over high heat. As soon as oil starts to smoke, place chicken chunks in a single layer in the pan. Cook and stir until chicken pieces start to caramelize and turn deep brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Reduce heat to medium. Stir in sliced jalapeno and red peppers, peanuts, and green onions. Cook and stir one minute. Pour in remainder of sauce. Simmer until heated through, 1 or 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 4

Stir in cilantro. Serve over hot cooked rice and top with chopped green onions.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

1004

Calories

48g

Fat

94g

Carbs

50g

Protein

Complement

The key to the success of Spicy Caramel Chicken lies in the balance of flavors and the careful execution of the caramelization process. The chicken is first marinated in a blend of spices and sauces, then cooked in a hot wok until it is golden brown and caramelized. The addition of spicy chili adds heat and depth to the dish, creating a perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether enjoyed with steamed rice or alongside crisp vegetables, Spicy Caramel Chicken is a dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression with its bold and unforgettable flavors.