Quick And Easy Chinese Chicken
A quick and flavorful Chinese-style chicken dish featuring a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners and appealing to those who enjoy bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks in a 12 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Combine catsup, brown sugar, soy sauce, white vinegar, and instant onion; stir well and pour over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours, turning the chicken after 45 minutes and basting occasionally.
- Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before baking. If you're short on time, use boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts for quicker cooking. For a healthier option, substitute brown sugar with honey or a sugar alternative. Instant onion can be replaced with fresh onions if you prefer a more robust flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fried rice, making it a perfect complement to Mama Carrol'S Chicken Adobo(Great With Fried Rice). You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Chinese Chicken contains roughly 269 calories, with 4g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1848mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any combination of chicken cuts you prefer. Boneless chicken pieces will cook faster, while bone-in cuts add more flavor. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
To create a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate these plant-based proteins in the same sauce and bake as directed, adjusting the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also explore other Chinese recipes for more side options that complement this flavorful chicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).