Sticky Pomegranate Chicken
Flavorful sticky pomegranate chicken recipe Easy delicious perfect weeknight meal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (Arils), for garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a more flavorful and tender dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the Sweetness and Spice: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the honey and red pepper flakes to your liking. Some pomegranates are naturally sweeter than others.
- Use a Good Quality Pomegranate Juice: Opt for 100% pure pomegranate juice without added sugars or artificial flavors. The quality of the juice will significantly impact the flavor of the final dish.
- Thicken the Sauce Gradually: Whisk the cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce. This will prevent lumps from forming.
- Garnish Generously: The pomegranate seeds, sesame seeds, and green onions not only add visual appeal but also contribute to the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot, right after cooking. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Notes
Juicy, tender chicken pieces glazed with a luscious, ruby-red pomegranate sauce, bursting with flavor in every bite. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering.