Crispy Chicken Tocino

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A Culinary Adventure

chicken tocino, a beloved Filipino breakfast staple, has captivated taste buds with its sweet, savory, and slightly smoky profile. Inspired by this classic, we embark on a culinary journey to create a dish that pays homage to its roots while embracing global influences.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lime juice)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Canola oil, for frying

    • Preparation:

    1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, calamansi juice, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the sliced chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
    2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Set aside.
    3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of canola oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
    4. Create the Sauce: Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the sauce thickens. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
    5. Glaze the Chicken: Toss the cooked chicken in the thickened sauce to coat evenly.
    6. Serve: Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as steamed rice, garlic rice, or a fresh green salad.

    Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes (excluding marinating time)

    A Culinary Fusion

    This dish is a delightful fusion of Filipino and Asian flavors. The sweet and savory profile of the marinade is reminiscent of traditional Filipino adobo, while the addition of calamansi juice and red pepper flakes adds a bright, citrusy kick. The glossy glaze, reminiscent of Chinese barbecue sauces, elevates the dish to new heights.

    As we savor this culinary creation, we appreciate the rich tapestry of flavors and cultures that have come together to create something truly special. It’s a testament to the power of food to connect people and inspire creativity.