Asian Chicken Thighs is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the savory and sweet flavors of Asian cuisine. Tender chicken thighs are cooked in a delicious sauce infused with a blend of spices and ingredients such as soy sauce, orange juice, garlic, and five-spice powder. This dish is served over hot cooked rice and garnished with sliced green onions for a complete and satisfying meal.

Asian cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors and vibrant ingredients. The combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors is a hallmark of many Asian dishes, and Asian Chicken Thighs exemplify this culinary tradition.

The origins of Asian-inspired chicken dishes can be traced back to various regions, including China, Thailand, and Japan, where unique flavor profiles and cooking techniques have developed over centuries. These dishes often incorporate a balance of ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, citrus, and aromatic spices to create a harmonious blend of flavors.

The use of chicken thighs in this recipe adds richness and juiciness to the dish. Chicken thighs are known for their tender meat and ability to absorb flavors, making them an excellent choice for dishes with robust sauces.

The sauce for Asian Chicken Thighs combines a variety of ingredients such as brown sugar, orange juice, soy sauce, ketchup, and garlic. These ingredients contribute to the complexity of flavors, offering a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and umami.

The addition of Chinese five-spice powder brings a distinct aroma and depth of flavor to the dish. This traditional Chinese spice blend typically consists of star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds. It adds a unique twist to the overall flavor profile of the dish.

PREP: 15 MIN.

COOK: 50 MIN.

MAKES: 5 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 5 bone-in chicken thighs (about 1¾ pounds), skin removed
• 5 teaspoons olive oil
• ⅓ cup warm water
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Hot cooked rice
• Sliced green onions

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken thighs in olive oil for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until no longer pink.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the warm water, brown sugar, orange juice, soy sauce, ketchup, white vinegar, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Chinese five-spice powder.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is tender, turning the chicken occasionally to coat it in the sauce.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Gradually stir the cornstarch mixture into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Bring it to a boil again and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve the Asian Chicken Thighs over hot cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness and flavor.

Asian Chicken Thighs are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Asia to your table. The tender chicken, combined with the flavorful sauce, creates a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory tastes. Enjoy this dish as a main course for a memorable dining experience.