Honey Garlic Chicken with a Chicago Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we incorporate elements of Chicago cuisine to enhance the original Chinese Honey Garlic Sauce. We add a touch of smokiness by incorporating a dash of liquid smoke into the sauce, giving it a distinct Chicago-style flavor. Additionally, we use locally sourced honey and garlic to infuse the dish with the essence of Chicago's culinary culture. We alse have the original recipe for Honey Garlic Sauce, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey (locally sourced, if possible) 1/2 cup (120ml) honey (locally sourced, if possible)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions and sesame seeds Optional garnish: chopped green onions and sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 30g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, cornstarch, water, liquid smoke, and black pepper until well combined.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. 4.
   Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
7. 7.
   Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
8. 8.
   Serve the Chicago-style Honey Garlic Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Honey — Use locally sourced honey to support local beekeepers and to add a touch of Chicago's culinary culture to the dish.
• Garlic — Freshly minced garlic will provide the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic for optimal taste.
• Liquid smoke — Use a small amount of liquid smoke to infuse the sauce with a smoky flavor, reminiscent of Chicago-style cuisine.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking to enhance the flavor.
• For a healthier option, use chicken breast instead of thighs and bake it in the oven instead of pan-frying.

Serving advice

Serve the Chicago-style Honey Garlic Chicken with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the chicken pieces on a platter, drizzle the sauce over them, and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an appetizing presentation. Serve with a side of steamed rice or noodles.