If you’re a fan of Chinese takeout, you’ll love this homemade version of Mar Far chicken. This recipe captures the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, and the crispy, saucy chicken is sure to be a hit with your family or guests.
Table of Contents:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, soy sauce, chicken broth, garlic, and ginger.
- Add the sauce to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened and bubbling.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
This Mar Far chicken recipe is delicious served with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables. For a complete Chinese-inspired meal, try adding egg rolls or fried rice to the menu.
Tips and Notes:
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying it.
- The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can substitute with water or vegetable broth.
- If you want to turn this recipe into a vegetarian dish, try substituting the chicken with tofu or vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use a different type of protein?
Yes, you can try using shrimp or pork instead of chicken.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free soy sauce.
3. Is Mar Far Chicken the same as General Tso’s Chicken?
No, they are two distinct dishes. Mar Far chicken has a sweet and sour taste, while General Tso’s chicken is typically spicier.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. How can I reheat the leftovers?
You can reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet with a little bit of oil. It’s best to reheat it in small batches to maintain the crispy texture.
Wrapping Up:
Mar Far chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that can be easily made at home. With its sweet and sour flavor and crispy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to try out the serving suggestions and variations for a complete Chinese meal experience.
