Calamansi Chicken
Enjoy a classic Chinese restaurant favorite with a Pinoy twist! This calamansi chicken with juicy chicken in a sweet and tangy sauce is sure to be a dinner hit! Perfect with steamed rice!
Servings: 4 Servings
Calories: 337kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- canola oil
- sesame seeds, toasted
- green onions, chopped
For the Calamansi Sauce
- ½ cup calamansi juice
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced
- 1 thumb-size ginger, peeled and finely grated
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, and Chinese cooking wine. Marinate in the refrigerator for about 20 to 30 minutes. Drain chicken, discarding liquid.
- In a bowl, combine egg whites and cornstarch. Whisk together until well-blended and frothy. Add chicken and mix to fully coat.
- In a thick-bottomed, deep pan over medium heat, heat oil. Add chicken pieces and stir to prevent them from lumping together. Deep-fry for about 5 to 6 minutes or until golden.
- With a slotted spoon, remove from heat and drain on a wire rack.
- In a pan, heat about 1 tablespoon oil. Add garlic and ginger and cook until softened.
- In a bowl, combine calamansi juice, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine, sesame oil, brown sugar, and red chili flakes.
- Add the sauce mixture to the pan and cook, stirring regularly, until sugar is dissolved.
- In a bowl, combine cornstarch and water and stir until smooth. Slowly add to calamansi sauce, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook for about 1 to 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Add fried chicken pieces and toss to coat with the sauce fully.
- Place on a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
- Fresh calamansi juice is a crucial ingredient in this dish. Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.
- Cut the chicken in uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Throw any remaining marinade away that has been in contact with the raw chicken for food safety reasons.
Nutrition
Calories: 337kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 1172mg | Potassium: 545mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 110IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 1mg