Delicious Coca-Cola Chicken Thighs Recipe

Table of Contents

Ingredients

- Chicken Thighs: 8-10 pieces
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper (for seasoning and removing the smell)

- Aromatics:
  - - 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
    - 5 cloves garlic, chopped
    - 3 green chilies, sliced
- Liquids:
  - - 1 cup Coca-Cola
    - 1/4 cup soy sauce
  - 4 tablespoons white vinegar
- Spices:
  - - 2 star anise
  - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (or Thai chili pepper)
- Cooking Oil: For sautéing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
  - - Clean and Season: Start by massaging the chicken thighs with salt to help remove any unwanted smell. Rinse them thoroughly under running water.
    - Dry: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking.
    - Final Seasoning: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the aromatics.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
  - - Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or pan, heat a little cooking oil over medium heat.
    - Sauté Ginger: Add the sliced ginger and sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
  - Add Garlic: Stir in the chopped garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
  - Incorporate Chilies: Add the sliced green chilies and sauté for another 10 seconds to release their flavor.

1. Pan-Fry the Chicken:
  - Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan. Pan-fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned.
2. Add the Liquids and Spices:
  - - Pour in Coca-Cola: Carefully pour in 1 cup of Coca-Cola, followed by 1/4 cup of soy sauce.
  - Add Spices: Toss in the 2 star anise, sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes (or Thai chili pepper), and add the 4 tablespoons of white vinegar.
  - Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a boil before stirring to combine all the ingredients.

1. Simmer and Thicken the Sauce:
  - Lower Heat: Reduce the heat and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  - Thicken the Sauce: Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken well, which may take an additional 5-10 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt as needed.

1. Serve:
  - Final Touches: Once the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully cooked through, remove the pan from the heat.
  - Pairing: Serve the Coca-Cola Chicken Thighs hot, accompanied by steamed rice or your preferred side dish. The rich, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with rice, making each bite a delight!

Enjoy Your Meal!

This Coca-Cola Chicken Thighs recipe is not just simple to make but also bursts with flavor, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the sweet and savory balance with a hint of spice, and don’t forget to save some sauce for drizzling over your rice!

Tips:

- Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili flakes or green chilies based on your spice preference.
- Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots during the simmering stage for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.