San Francisco Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings together bold spices and tender chicken in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of the Bay Area, this recipe combines fresh ingredients with a touch of tangy zest that makes every bite unforgettable.
We love how easy it is to prepare yet impressive enough to serve for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Whether you’re craving something new or looking to add a local twist to your chicken dishes, this recipe hits the mark. Let’s dive into making a meal that’s as dynamic and inviting as San Francisco itself.
Ingredients
To create our San Francisco Chicken, we select fresh, vibrant ingredients that blend bold flavors with tender textures. Below are the components categorized for clarity and ease as we prepare this unique dish together.
Chicken Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 6 ounces each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Marinade Ingredients
Our marinade infuses the chicken with the zesty, aromatic essence characteristic of San Francisco Chicken.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | ⅓ cup | Use low sodium if preferred |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Squeezed from 1 lemon |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves, minced | Freshly minced |
| Ground ginger | 1 teaspoon | |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon | Adds a subtle sweetness |
| Red chili flakes | ½ teaspoon | Adjust for heat level |
Sauce Ingredients
The signature sauce brings together a savory and tangy profile with a touch of sweetness.
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry)
Garnish Ingredients
To finish and elevate our dish visually and texturally, we use:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro leaves, a small handful
These components ensure our San Francisco Chicken captivates the palate from the first bite.
Equipment Needed
To master the San Francisco Chicken recipe, gathering the right equipment is essential. Proper tools ensure each step from marinating to cooking will capture every vibrant flavor and texture perfectly.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients and coating the chicken evenly.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To guarantee precise seasoning and sauce balance.
- Whisk: To blend the marinade and sauce components smoothly.
- Non-stick skillet or sauté pan: For cooking the chicken to a juicy, golden finish without sticking.
- Tongs: To turn the chicken pieces safely and confidently.
- Small saucepan: To prepare the signature sauce with control over heat and thickness.
- Sharp chef’s knife: For slicing green onions and cilantro garnishes finely.
- Cutting board: Clean and sturdy surface for prepping all fresh ingredients.
- Serving platter or plates: Present the finished dish with flair.
Optional but Helpful
- Marinating container with lid: For easy storage and even infusion if marinating ahead.
- Garlic press: To extract fresh garlic juice quickly.
- Kitchen thermometer: To check the chicken’s internal temperature, ensuring perfect doneness (165°F or 74°C).
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | Mix marinade and coat chicken evenly |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Accurate seasoning and sauce measurement |
| Whisk | Blend marinade and sauce smoothly |
| Non-stick skillet | Cook chicken evenly without sticking |
| Tongs | Safe handling and flipping of chicken |
| Small saucepan | Prepare sauce with control |
| Chef’s knife | Slice garnishes precisely |
| Cutting board | Prep fresh ingredients |
| Serving platter | Stylish presentation |
Ensuring we equip our kitchen with these tools sets the stage for creating a sensational San Francisco Chicken that bursts with bold flavors and expert technique.
Preparation
To master the San Francisco Chicken recipe, we must carefully prepare each component. Follow these precise steps for tender, flavorful chicken complemented by a zesty marinade and a rich signature sauce.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim and pat dry the boneless skinless chicken breasts with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Slice the chicken into even pieces about 1-inch thick. Consistent sizing ensures they cook uniformly.
- Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This basic seasoning primes the chicken to absorb the marinade’s bold flavors.
Making the Marinade
Combine the vibrant marinade ingredients that define our San Francisco Chicken:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup | – |
| Fresh lemon juice | 3 tablespoons | Squeeze fresh lemons |
| Minced garlic | 3 cloves | Finely minced |
| Ground ginger | 1 teaspoon | – |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons | – |
| Red chili flakes | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust for heat level |
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk all these ingredients together until the honey dissolves completely.
- Place the sliced chicken into the marinade, ensuring every piece is fully coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 hour, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the chicken.
“Marinating is where the magic begins—this step guarantees the distinct tangy zest that makes our San Francisco Chicken irresistible.”
Preparing the Sauce
Our signature sauce delivers the perfect balance of savory and tangy notes. Here is what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup | Use low sodium |
| Hoisin sauce | 2 tablespoons | – |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon | – |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon | – |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon | Dissolved in 2 tbsp water |
- In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly.
- When warm, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the sauce reaches a glossy and slightly thickened consistency, about 3-4 minutes.
Pro Tip: Keep stirring to avoid lumps and achieve a silky smooth sauce that perfectly coats the chicken.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our vibrant San Francisco Chicken. Each stage—from marinating to cooking and sauce preparation—ensures a balanced blend of flavors and tender texture.
Marinating the Chicken
- Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Trim any excess fat and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Slice the chicken into even strips, approximately 1-inch wide, to guarantee uniform cooking.
- Lightly season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper for foundational flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinade ingredients:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
- Whisk the marinade thoroughly until the honey dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Submerge the chicken pieces into the marinade ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the zesty, aromatic flavors.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Once the oil shimmers, arrange the marinated chicken strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even searing.
- Cook each side for about 3–4 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Use tongs to flip the pieces gently. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil to rest while we prepare the sauce.
Preparing the Sauce on the Stove
- In a small saucepan, combine the signature sauce ingredients:
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Mix these ingredients over medium heat to blend the sweet and tangy profile.
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
- Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a smooth, glossy consistency.
- Remove from heat and immediately pour the sauce over the cooked chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
| Step | Action | Time/Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinating | Coat chicken in marinade | 30 minutes refrigerated | Ensures tender, flavorful chicken |
| Cooking Chicken | Sear chicken in olive oil | 3–4 minutes per side, 165°F | Avoid overcrowding for even cooking |
| Sauce Preparation | Simmer sauce and thicken with slurry | 2–3 minutes | Stir constantly to achieve smooth thickness |
By following these detailed Cooking Instructions, together we create a San Francisco Chicken dish bursting with bold, balanced flavors and perfect tenderness every time.
Assembly
Now that we have perfectly cooked and sauced the San Francisco Chicken, it’s time to bring all elements together in the final assembly. This step ensures every bite bursts with that signature tangy, savory flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
- Transfer the cooked chicken pieces directly into the saucepan containing the warm, thickened signature sauce.
- Using tongs, toss the chicken gently in the sauce, making sure every piece is fully coated.
- Simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes over low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to soak up the sauce’s vibrant essences.
- Avoid stirring too vigorously to maintain the chicken’s tender texture and the sauce’s smooth consistency.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer chicken | Move cooked pieces to sauce | Combine flavors |
| Toss chicken | Coat evenly with sauce | Full flavor coverage |
| Simmer | Cook gently for 2-3 minutes | Melds flavors |
| Stir carefully | Gentle handling | Preserve texture and sauce consistency |
Garnishing the Dish
To complete our San Francisco Chicken, garnishing plays a crucial role in adding freshness, crunch, and visual appeal:
- Sprinkle finely chopped green onions evenly across the top for a pop of color and mild onion aroma.
- Add toasted sesame seeds to introduce a slight crunch and nutty undertone, enhancing the texture contrast.
- Finish with fresh cilantro leaves scattered lightly to provide bright herbal notes that balance the rich sauce.
- Optionally, we can squeeze a little fresh lemon juice on top to revive the tangy zest.
“Garnishing is not just decoration; it is the final flavor layer that elevates the whole experience of our San Francisco Chicken.”
Using these simple yet impactful garnishes transforms the dish into an exciting and authentic meal that reflects the vibrant spirit of San Francisco’s culinary landscape.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our San Francisco Chicken recipe, selecting the right accompaniments is essential. The dish’s bold, tangy flavors pair wonderfully with sides that complement and balance its zest.
Ideal Side Dishes
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Brown Rice
The subtle aroma and fluffy texture of steamed rice absorb the savory sauce perfectly, making it a classic choice to ground the meal.
- Garlic Ginger Stir-Fried Vegetables
Quick stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots with garlic and ginger add a fresh crunch while echoing the recipe’s aromatic notes.
- Simple Asian Slaw
A mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions tossed with rice vinegar and sesame oil provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
- Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice
For a low-carb alternative, these grains offer a nutty flavor and texture that pairs nicely with the San Francisco Chicken’s sauces.
Beverage Pairings
We recommend pairing the dish with crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which cut through the rich tanginess and elevate the flavors. For non-alcoholic options, iced green tea or sparkling water with lemon slices complements the meal’s brightness.
Serving Presentation Tips
To highlight the dish’s vibrant colors and textures:
- Plate with steamed rice as the base.
- Arrange the San Francisco Chicken on top or beside the rice.
- Drizzle extra signature sauce over the dish for an appetizing glaze.
- Sprinkle garnishes like toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
Serving Temperature and Portion Sizes
| Serving Element | Serving Temperature | Suggested Portion Size |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco Chicken | Hot | 5–6 oz cooked chicken per person |
| Jasmine/Brown Rice | Warm | 3/4 to 1 cup cooked rice |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | Hot | 1/2 to 3/4 cup per person |
| Asian Slaw | Cool | 1/3 cup per person |
Quote to Inspire Your Meal
“Great meals are never just about food; they are about bringing people together. Our San Francisco Chicken recipe celebrates both bold flavors and shared moments.”
By combining these thoughtful serving ideas, we transform our San Francisco Chicken into an unforgettable dining experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
To master the San Francisco Chicken recipe with ease and maximize its flavor, we recommend following these strategic make-ahead tips. Preparing components in advance not only saves time but deepens the dish’s zesty and savory profile.
Marinate the Chicken Overnight
For the most tender and flavorful results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours up to overnight in the refrigerator. The soy sauce, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and spices in the marinade penetrate the meat fully, enhancing its characteristic tangy zest.
| Marination Time | Effect on Flavor & Texture |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Good flavor infusion, tender |
| 4 hours | Deep flavor, very tender |
| Overnight (8-12h) | Maximum flavor, extremely tender |
“Patience is a virtue in marinating—longer marination creates a more luscious San Francisco Chicken.”
Prepare the Signature Sauce Ahead
The sauce combining chicken broth, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating an even richer sauce.
- Make sure to stir well upon reheating, as cornstarch may settle.
Cook Chicken in Batches and Refrigerate
If you’re short on time the day of serving, cook the chicken slices in batches ahead of time, then cool and store them in the refrigerator. Warm gently in a skillet with the pre-made sauce just before serving to maintain moistness and texture.
Keep Garnishes Fresh and Separate
Chop green onions, toast sesame seeds, and prepare fresh cilantro just before serving or store them separately in the fridge to preserve their vibrant color and crunch.
By organizing our preparation steps with these make-ahead techniques, we ensure that every bite of San Francisco Chicken bursts with full-bodied flavor while streamlining our cooking process for easy entertaining.
Conclusion
San Francisco Chicken offers a delightful blend of bold flavors and simple preparation that fits perfectly into any meal plan. With the right ingredients and techniques, it’s easy to create a dish that feels both special and approachable.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe brings a touch of the Bay Area’s vibrant culinary spirit to your table. By following our tips and making a few thoughtful preparations, you’ll enjoy a meal that’s as flavorful as it is memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is San Francisco Chicken?
San Francisco Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by the Bay Area’s vibrant cuisine. It features tender chicken marinated in bold spices and cooked with a tangy, savory sauce, offering a unique local twist to classic chicken meals.
What ingredients do I need to make San Francisco Chicken?
You’ll need boneless skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, salt, pepper, soy sauce, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground ginger, honey, red chili flakes, chicken broth, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and garnishes like green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and cilantro.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, overnight marinating is recommended.
What cooking tools are essential for this recipe?
Key tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring spoons and cups, whisk, non-stick skillet, tongs, small saucepan, chef’s knife, cutting board, and serving platters. Optional tools like a marinating container and kitchen thermometer can help.
How do I prepare the signature sauce?
Combine chicken broth, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a saucepan. Thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry while stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
Can San Francisco Chicken be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Cook chicken in batches if needed. Garnishes should be added fresh just before serving.
What are the best side dishes to serve with San Francisco Chicken?
Ideal sides include steamed jasmine or brown rice, garlic ginger stir-fried vegetables, Asian slaw, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
What beverages pair well with San Francisco Chicken?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the dish well. For non-alcoholic options, try iced green tea or sparkling water with lemon slices.
How should I serve San Francisco Chicken?
Serve the chicken over rice or your choice of base, drizzle extra sauce on top, and garnish with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro for a fresh, vibrant presentation.