Cherry Blossom Chicken Recipe
Discover the delicious blend of sweet and savory with Cherry Blossom Chicken. This Asian-inspired recipe features a floral glaze, perfect for healthy chicken dinners.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Small saucepan (for the cherry blossom glaze)
- Tongs or spatula (for handling the chicken)
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup cherry blossom petals or cherry jam
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 spring onions finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
- The key to flavorful Cherry Blossom Chicken lies in the marinade. A good chicken marinade helps the flavors seep into the meat, making it both tender and delicious.
Ingredients for Marinade:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or container and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more intense flavor).
- Tip: Marinating overnight enhances the flavors significantly, making the floral flavor chicken more pronounced.
Preparing the Cherry Blossom Glaze
- The cherry blossom glaze adds a floral sweetness to the chicken, balancing the savory marinade beautifully.
Ingredients for the Glaze:
- ¼ cup cherry blossom petals or cherry jam
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the cherry blossoms (or jam), soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
- Stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens, forming a smooth glaze.
- Set the glaze aside to cool.
- Tip: Brush the glaze on the chicken during cooking for a shiny, sweet chicken sauce finish.
Cooking the Chicken
- There are two popular methods for cooking Cherry Blossom Chicken: grilling and pan-searing. Both methods work well, but grilling adds a smoky flavor.
Grilled Chicken with Cherries:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
- Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brush with the cherry blossom glaze in the final 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Easy Chicken Skillet Recipe:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Brush the chicken with the cherry blossom glaze during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Tip: For a more intense flavor, continually brush the chicken with the glaze while cooking.
Notes
Pairing the right sides with this dish elevates the entire meal. Here are some great options for chicken and rice pairings or other side dishes:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The neutral flavor of rice complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
- Stir-fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add crunch and color.
- Asian Slaw: A fresh slaw with sesame and ginger dressing provides a cool, tangy contrast.
- Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, asparagus, and mushrooms add an earthy element.