Chinese garlic chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful garlic sauce. This dish has become a staple in many Chinese restaurants and homes, offering a delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors. In Virginia Beach, a city known for its diverse culinary scene, Chinese garlic chicken is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. This article explores the various recipes and restaurants in Virginia Beach that offer this delectable dish, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enjoy Chinese garlic chicken in this vibrant coastal city.
The Essence of Chinese Garlic Chicken
Chinese garlic chicken is a versatile dish that can be prepared in numerous ways, each offering a unique twist on the classic recipe. The core ingredients typically include chicken (either breast or thighs), garlic, soy sauce, and a thickening agent like cornstarch. Additional ingredients such as honey, sesame oil, and various vegetables can be added to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: Both chicken breasts and thighs are commonly used. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and forgiving during cooking, while breasts are leaner and cook quickly.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for achieving the dish’s signature flavor. It can be minced, sliced, or pureed, depending on the recipe.
- Soy Sauce: This provides the salty, umami base for the sauce. Both light and dark soy sauces can be used.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.
- Additional Ingredients: Honey, sesame oil, chicken broth, Chinese cooking wine, oyster sauce, and various vegetables like bell peppers and green onions can be included to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Popular Recipes
Several recipes for Chinese garlic chicken stand out for their unique approaches and flavors. Here are a few notable ones:
TheCookful’s Chinese Garlic Chicken
This recipe emphasizes simplicity and speed, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The ingredients include chicken breast, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, cornstarch, and vegetable oil. The chicken is cut into small pieces and stir-fried with the garlic mixture until cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish is best served over rice.
Sprinkles and Sprouts’ Takeout Style Chinese Garlic Chicken
This version includes a few additional steps to tenderize the chicken using baking soda, which helps achieve a texture similar to restaurant takeout. The sauce is made with chicken stock, cornstarch, Chinese cooking wine, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. The dish also incorporates beansprouts and green onions, adding a fresh, crunchy element to the stir-fry.
Yummy Tummy Aarthi’s Chinese Style Garlic Chicken
Aarthi’s recipe involves deep-frying the chicken before tossing it in a flavorful garlic sauce. The sauce includes dry red chilies, ginger, garlic, onions, garlic puree, tomato ketchup, soy sauce, green chili sauce, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. This method results in a crispy, saucy chicken dish that pairs well with fried rice or noodles.
A Spicy Perspective’s Chinese Chicken with Garlic Sauce
This recipe highlights the importance of marinating the chicken to enhance its flavor. The marinade includes dark soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch. The dish is then stir-fried with bell peppers and scallions, creating a colorful and flavorful meal. The sauce thickens as it cooks, coating the chicken and vegetables beautifully.
Chinese Garlic Chicken in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach boasts a variety of Chinese restaurants that offer delicious versions of Chinese garlic chicken. Here are some of the top spots to try this dish:
Peking City
Located in Virginia Beach, Peking City is known for its authentic Chinese cuisine and friendly atmosphere. Their Chinese garlic chicken is a popular choice, featuring tender chicken pieces in a savory garlic sauce. The restaurant’s convenient location and affordable prices make it a great option for both dine-in and take-out meals.
Mei Zhen Restaurant
Mei Zhen offers New York-style Chinese cuisine, including a delectable Chinese garlic chicken. The dish is prepared with high-quality fresh ingredients, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying meal. Mei Zhen’s friendly service and cozy atmosphere make it a favorite among locals.
No. 1 Yummy Chinese Restaurant
No. 1 Yummy is another excellent choice for Chinese garlic chicken in Virginia Beach. Known for its variety of tastes and fresh ingredients, this restaurant offers a delicious version of the dish that can be enjoyed as part of a dine-in or take-out meal. Their online ordering system makes it easy to enjoy their food from the comfort of your home.
Imperial Palace
Imperial Palace is a must-visit for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine. Their Chinese garlic chicken is a standout dish, featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic sauce. The restaurant’s upscale interior and excellent service make it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
King Hua
King Hua offers a delightful Chinese garlic chicken that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Located on Independence Blvd, this restaurant is known for its delicious food and friendly service. Their garlic chicken is prepared with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection, making it a popular choice among diners.
Making Chinese Garlic Chicken at Home
For those who prefer to cook at home, making Chinese garlic chicken is a rewarding experience. Here is a simple recipe to try:
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 green onion, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion, if desired. Serve the chicken over rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chinese garlic chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that has become a favorite in Virginia Beach. Whether you choose to enjoy it at one of the city’s many excellent Chinese restaurants or make it at home, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. With its tender chicken, rich garlic sauce, and variety of additional ingredients, Chinese garlic chicken offers a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. So next time you’re in Virginia Beach, be sure to try this culinary delight and experience the best of Chinese cuisine.