Tamarind Glazed Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that brings a taste of Southeast Asia to your table. The tamarind glaze—a perfect balance of sour, sweet, and savory—coats juicy chicken thighs in a glossy, caramelized sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1½ lbs (680g) chicken thighs and chicken legs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Tamarind Glaze:
- ¼ cup (60ml) tamarind paste (or 2 tbsp tamarind concentrate + 2 tbsp water)
- ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce
- ¼ cup (85g) honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ cup (120ml) water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, sliced
For Serving:
- Steamed rice
Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Tamarind Glaze: In the same skillet, combine tamarind paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and water. Bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits.
Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened. For a thicker sauce, whisk in cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.
3. Glaze the Chicken: Return chicken to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, turning to coat in the glaze, until heated through and glossy.
4. Serve: Transfer to a plate. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with steamed rice.
This Tamarind Glazed Chicken is sweet, tangy, and savory—a quick and delicious dinner.
