Craving something comforting yet exciting? Try Troy’s Korean Glazed Chicken Breast with Kimchee Fried Rice! This dish features juicy chicken glazed in a sweet and savory sauce, paired with spicy kimchee fried rice that’ll tickle your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s simple to prepare but loaded with flavor!
Budget Information
Total recipe cost: $12.50
Cost per serving (serves 4): $3.13
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner because it brings together the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with the ease of a weeknight dinner. The chicken is marinated to perfection, allowing it to soak up all those delicious flavors, while the kimchee fried rice adds a fantastic kick that brings everything to life. Plus, it’s a one-stop meal that combines protein and carbs beautifully, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breasts ($7.50)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce ($0.50)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar ($0.15)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil ($0.20)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.10)
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger ($0.20)
– 2 cups cooked rice ($0.50)
– 1 cup kimchee ($2.00)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying ($0.10)
– Green onions for garnish (optional) ($0.15)
Feel free to swap chicken breasts for thighs, or the rice for quinoa if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by making that delicious marinade! In a medium bowl, stir together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce brings a perfect balance of sweet and savory that will make the chicken sing!
Step 2: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Let them soak in all that flavor for at least 30 minutes; if you have time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight will elevate the flavors to a whole new level. Imagine the juices infusing, creating a succulent bite with every piece!
Step 3: While the chicken is marinating, let’s make the kimchee fried rice. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the cooked rice and stir to fluff it up. The aim here is to get those grains dancing.
Step 4: Add the kimchee to the rice and stir it all together. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through. Your nose will thank you as the spicy aroma fills your kitchen!
Step 5: In another skillet or grill pan, heat a splash of oil. Add the marinated chicken, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Sizzle those pieces for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, and the sugars in the marinade start to caramelize beautifully. You want that enticing color and glaze — it’s all about the looks, right?
Step 6: Once the chicken is done, serve it alongside a generous portion of that vibrant kimchee fried rice. Garnish with green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor! A touch of brightness can make any dish sing!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 480
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Total fats: 18g
Saturated fat: 3g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 750mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (and that’s a big if!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. A quick zap in the microwave or a quick sauté in a pan will bring that deliciousness back to life!
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed broccoli or a crispy salad to balance out the flavors. For the adventurous, a drizzle of spicy mayo over the chicken will add an extra kick that you won’t want to miss!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
To enhance the flavors even more, consider adding a teaspoon of Korean chili flakes to your marinade for an extra punch! If you’re feeling fancy, some toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top just before serving adds a delightful crunch and nutty aroma. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings to suit your personal palate.
Recipe FAQs
What is kimchee?
Kimchee is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, typically napa cabbage and Korean radishes, spiced with various seasonings, making it deliciously tangy and spicy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day early and store it in the fridge. Just remember to cook it the day you plan to serve the dish for the best texture and flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from the kimchee, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. If you prefer less heat, consider omitting the kimchee or using a milder version.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
What can I serve instead of rice?
Feel free to swap rice for quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles. The choice is yours!
