Japanese Sticky Chicken

The first time I made Japanese Sticky Chicken, it was a rainy Sunday afternoon. I was craving something rich and flavorful, so I decided to experiment with a combination of sweet and savory ingredients. As the aroma filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel transported to Japan, where food is deeply intertwined with tradition and culture. The combination of tender, juicy chicken coated in a delicious sticky glaze brought back memories of family dinners and warm gatherings. With every bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a treasure that would quickly become a staple in my home.

Ingredients to Make Japanese Sticky Chicken

When it comes to making Japanese Sticky Chicken, the ingredients are key. Each one plays a vital role in creating the deep, satisfying flavors that make this dish stand out. The combination of sweet and savory elements harmonizes beautifully, while the tender chicken absorbs all the deliciousness of the marinade.

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger: This adds a zesty warmth that brightens the overall flavor.
• 1/4 cup mirin: A sweet rice wine that balances the dish with a hint of sweetness.
• 1/4 cup honey: Provides a natural sweetness that helps form that sticky glaze.
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce: Essential for umami richness without overwhelming saltiness.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds acidity to round out the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Delivers a nutty aroma and taste, enhancing the overall profile.
• 1 teaspoon togarashi spice blend, optional: A Japanese spice blend that adds complexity and warmth, but can be skipped if desired.
• 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts: The star of the dish; they stay moist and absorb all the flavors.
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs: Adds extra richness and is perfect for sharing.
• 3 scallions, chopped: For garnish, adding a fresh crunch and a pop of color.

Putting Together Japanese Sticky Chicken

Preparing Japanese Sticky Chicken is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for anyone, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef. Follow these simple steps carefully, as they involve marinating and cooking the chicken to perfection.

1. In a large zipper bag or a 13 x 9 baking dish, whisk together the first seven ingredients: ginger, mirin, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional togarashi. This will create a beautiful marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor.
2. Next, add the chicken breasts and legs to the marinade. Make sure to turn the pieces so they are completely coated. This step is crucial—let the chicken soak up all those wonderful flavors!
3. Once coated, seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or overnight for maximum flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the taste will be.
4. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 450F (232C). This high heat will help achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully, adding texture to the dish.
6. Bake the chicken for about 30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C). Keep an eye on it; you want that skin to be crispy!
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
8. Before serving, sprinkle the chicken with the chopped scallions. This adds a fresh crunch and elevates the presentation.
9. Serve your Japanese Sticky Chicken with your favorite side dishes, like steamed rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in every bite!

Helpful Notes about Japanese Sticky Chicken

Cooking Japanese Sticky Chicken can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for balance.
• Variations: Consider adding vegetables to the marinade or serving it with a sesame dressing for extra flavor.
• Cooking Method: For a quicker option, cook the chicken in an Instant Pot on high for 15 minutes with natural release for juicy results.

What to Serve With Japanese Sticky Chicken

Pairing your Japanese Sticky Chicken with the right sides elevates the meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy rice soaks up the sticky sauce perfectly.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies sautéed with garlic and soy sauce add a fresh crunch and balance the richness.
• Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the chicken.
• Noodles: Serve with soba noodles tossed in sesame oil, which offers a nutty flavor that complements the dish.
• Potato Dishes: Mashed potatoes or sweet potato wedges can add a comforting touch to your meal.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even special occasions like birthdays.
• Storage Tips: Ensure leftovers are stored properly to maintain freshness and flavor. Use airtight containers.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, light salads are perfect, while roasted vegetables are excellent in the winter.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Japanese Sticky Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and a satisfying texture. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends. I encourage you to try this recipe; you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to prepare and how much everyone will love it. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Japanese Sticky Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Japanese Sticky Chicken brings rich flavor and a satisfying glaze that keeps you craving more. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy dish combines sweet and savory elements that everyone will love. Make it tonight for a meal that’s sure to impress!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Japanese

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Blender
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon togarashi spice blend optional
• 2 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
• 3 pieces scallions chopped

Instructions

 

• In a large zipper bag or in a 13 x 9 baking dish, whisk the first 7 ingredients.
• Add the chicken to the sauce, turning the pieces so they are completely coated.
• Marinate 1 hour in the refrigerator or up to overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 450F.
• Bake Chicken, skin side up, for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
• Serve sprinkled with scallions.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for balance.
• Tip 4: Consider adding vegetables to the marinade or serving it with a sesame dressing for extra flavor.
• Tip 5: For a quicker option, cook the chicken in an Instant Pot on high for 15 minutes with natural release for juicy results.

Keyword Easy Dinner Recipe, Japanese chicken recipe, Japanese cuisine, sticky chicken