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Jamie Oliver Sticky Chicken

Jamie Oliver Sticky Chicken recipe

Sticky chicken is marinated and cooked with a thick, glossy glaze made from ingredients like honey, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. The sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a deep, rich flavor that sticks to the chicken, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • Chicken thighs or drumsticks (1kg, skin-on, bone-in, or boneless) – Tender and juicy.
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Enhances the natural flavors.
  • Olive oil (1 tbsp) – For frying.

For the Sticky Sauce:

  • Honey (3 tbsp) – Adds a natural sweetness and caramelization.
  • Soy sauce (4 tbsp, low-sodium preferred) – Brings umami and saltiness.
  • Balsamic vinegar (2 tbsp) – Adds tang and balances sweetness.
  • Garlic cloves (3, minced) – Adds depth to the sauce.
  • Ginger (1-inch piece, grated) – Adds warmth and spice.
  • Tomato ketchup (2 tbsp) – Gives a rich, slightly tangy base.
  • Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp) – Enhances umami.
  • Red chili flakes (½ tsp, optional) – For a touch of heat.
  • Cornstarch (1 tsp, mixed with 1 tbsp water) – Helps thicken the sauce.
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional) – Adds a nutty crunch.
  • Fresh coriander or spring onions (for garnish) – Adds freshness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  3. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sticky Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, ginger, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chili flakes (if using).
  2. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Coat and Cook the Chicken

  1. Return the seared chicken to the pan and pour the sticky sauce over it.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until fully coated and sticky.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and spoon extra sauce over the top.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh coriander or spring onions.
  3. Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.