Looking for a delicious and easy chicken dish? Check out this ponzu chicken recipe!
This is a great way to add some flavour and nutrition to your meal. Plus, it’s a perfect appetizer or main course.
This dish is perfect for any party or meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll be able to put it together in no time!
What is Ponzu Chicken?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore what makes Ponzu Chicken so special.
Ponzu is a traditional Japanese citrus-based sauce made from citrus juice, soy sauce, mirin, and vinegar.
When used as a marinade for chicken, it infuses the meat with a zesty, umami-rich flavor profile that is both refreshing and savory.
The chicken is then perfectly cooked, resulting in tender, juicy pieces with a delightful citrus twist.
Ingredients for Ponzu Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup ponzu sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Ponzu Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken:
Combine the ponzu sauce, soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a mixing bowl.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them.
Seal the bag gently massage it to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Carefully place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
Serve the Ponzu Chicken alongside steamed rice or noodles.
Drizzle any remaining marinade as a sauce over the chicken.
Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added visual appeal.
Dig in and savor the vibrant flavors of your homemade Ponzu Chicken!
Variations and Substitutes:
- Vegetarian Option:
- Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh.
- Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the tofu is heated through.
- Seafood Twist:
- Swap the chicken breasts for shrimp or scallops.
- Reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking the seafood.
- Grilled Delight:
- Marinate the chicken as directed, then grill it over medium heat for an added smoky flavor.
What Does Ponzu Chicken Taste Like?
Ponzu Chicken offers a delightful balance of flavors. The tanginess of the ponzu sauce and the umami notes of soy sauce and mirin create a citrusy and savory taste.
The chicken remains juicy and tender, complementing the vibrant flavors of the marinade. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of citrus-infused goodness that will leave you craving more.
Ponzu Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup ponzu sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine the ponzu sauce, soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a mixing bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them.
- Seal the bag gently massage it to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Carefully place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Serve the Ponzu Chicken alongside steamed rice or noodles.
- Drizzle any remaining marinade as a sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added visual appeal.
- Dig in and savor the vibrant flavors of your homemade Ponzu Chicken!
