Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your kitchen into a flavor paradise! These irresistible Braised Chicken Balls with Oyster Sauce are about to become your new obsession - a dish so delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken balls swimming in a rich, savory sauce that combines the umami magic of oyster sauce with the subtle kick of ginger and green onions. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or simply craving an authentic Asian-inspired meal, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced ginger, chopped green onion, oyster sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using clean hands or a small scoop, shape the chicken mixture into uniform round balls approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Ensure the balls are compact to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
- Prepare a large skillet or wok with medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Gently place the chicken balls into the hot skillet, allowing them to brown evenly on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes, rotating carefully to create a golden exterior.
- Once the chicken balls are nicely browned, reduce heat to medium-low and add additional oyster sauce and a small amount of water or chicken broth to create a braising liquid.
- Cover the skillet and let the chicken balls simmer in the sauce for approximately 15-20 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Occasionally baste the chicken balls with the braising liquid to maintain moisture and enhance flavor absorption.
- When fully cooked, remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your preferred side dish, spooning the remaining braising sauce over the chicken balls.
Tips
- Moisture is Key: When mixing the chicken, don't overwork the meat. Gentle mixing keeps the balls tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken balls reach 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Binding Technique: The cornstarch helps bind the meat and creates a slightly crispy exterior when browning.
- Sauce Consistency: If the braising sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to maintain a silky texture.
- Prep Ahead: You can make the chicken balls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, making meal prep a breeze.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of white pepper to the mixture.
- Serving Suggestion: These chicken balls pair perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or can be served over a bed of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
