Ginger and Sesame Oil Chicken

When I first saw this recipe posted on Shu Han's blog, Mummy I Can Cook, I couldn't help grinning. She has a photo of the original recipe from her mom. The recipe was written in a crowded mix of her mom's Chinese and English. She described this as one of her favorite comfort foods. I knew then, that I needed to try making this. I changed a few things, mostly by accident, but it turned out wonderfully.

My husband, my boys and I ate every bite of this chicken. I will likely double the recipe next time I make it, so that we'll be sure to have extra for lunch the next day!

Ginger and Sesame Oil Chicken

recipe adapted from Shu Han's mom

3 chicken legs, cut into thighs and drumsticks (you can use whichever parts you like, but they should be bone-in)

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, I peeled and minced about 2" worth using a microplane grater

3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup water 
1 tablespoon rice wine

1 tablespoon olive oil

In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger,  sugar, pepper, and water. Pour this over the chicken in a large ziploc bag or airtight container. Marinate 1-2 hours.

In a large skillet over medium high heat, warm the olive oil and then add the chicken pieces (save the marinade). Brown them slightly, about 1-2 minutes on each side.Then add the rice wine, followed by the reserved marinade and cook for a few minutes.

Cover with the lid and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. Remove the chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm. Increase the heat under the marinade left in the pan to about medium high, let it simmer until reduced by about half. Pour the sauce over the chicken before serving. Enjoy!

Click here for printable recipe