Asian Marinated Chicken with Snap Pea Panzanella

Introduction

When it comes to vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, this Asian Marinated Chicken with Snap Pea Panzanella hits all the right notes. My family recently tried this recipe, and it quickly became a favorite! The combination of tender, marinated chicken paired with the crispness of snap peas and the heartiness of toasted sourdough bread created a delightful balance that everyone loved. The marinade infuses the chicken with a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, while the panzanella adds a refreshing crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, making it ideal for dinner parties or a cozy family meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 medium chicken breasts (6-8 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup fish sauce (or 1/8 cup for a milder flavor)
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 large garlic clove, grated

For the Panzanella:

• 8 ounces artisan sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons canola or olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 small garlic clove, grated
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Pound Chicken Breasts: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
2. Marinate Chicken: In a large plastic bag or shallow dish, combine honey, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated garlic. Add the chicken breasts and massage the marinade into the meat. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Make Panzanella: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the bread cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with canola or olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Toss to coat and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and golden. Allow to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, sesame oil, grated garlic, honey, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
5. Assemble the Panzanella: In a large bowl, combine the snap peas, sliced cucumber, and any desired chopped green onions. Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss gently to coat. Add the toasted bread cubes and toss again until everything is well mixed.
6. Grill Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cook Chicken: Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 160°F (71°C). Allow the chicken to rest for 5-7 minutes to reach the final temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it alongside the snap pea panzanella. Drizzle with any remaining dressing if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 420 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 900 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 5 hours

How to Serve

• Place the sliced chicken on a platter next to the panzanella.
• Drizzle additional dressing over the chicken and salad for extra flavor.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro for added color and taste.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust the Marinade: If you’re sensitive to fish sauce, you can reduce the amount to 1/8 cup for a milder flavor.
2. Use Leftover Chicken: This dish works great with leftover grilled chicken for a quick meal.
3. Bread Choices: Feel free to substitute sourdough with another hearty bread like ciabatta or focaccia.
4. Vegetable Variations: Add other fresh vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or carrots for more crunch.
5. Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before for an even more flavorful dish.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, marinated and grilled for a vegetarian option.
• Panzanella Additions: Toss in some diced avocado or tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Complement with a side of jasmine rice for added substance.

Freezing and Storage

• Chicken: Cooked marinated chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• Panzanella: Best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a day. If preparing ahead, add the toasted bread just before serving to maintain its crunch.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of meat?
   • Yes, pork tenderloin or shrimp also work well with this marinade.
2. Is the fish sauce necessary?
   • Fish sauce adds depth, but you can substitute with more soy sauce or omit it if desired.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   • Absolutely! Substitute chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh.
4. How long can I marinate the chicken?
   • Marinate for at least 4 hours, but up to 8 hours is best for flavor.
5. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
   • You can replace it with any neutral oil, though the flavor will change slightly.
6. Can I prepare the panzanella ahead of time?
   • You can prepare the salad in advance, but add the toasted bread just before serving.
7. What other vegetables can I use in the panzanella?
   • Consider adding bell peppers, radishes, or even fruits like mango for a twist.
8. What if I can’t find sugar snap peas?
   • Substitute with snow peas or sliced green beans.
9. Can I grill the chicken indoors?
   • Yes, using a grill pan on the stovetop works well.
10. What should I serve with this dish?

• This dish pairs well with rice or a light side salad.

Conclusion

Asian Marinated Chicken with Snap Pea Panzanella is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors and textures to your table. It’s perfect for warm summer nights or any occasion where you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy grilled chicken and refreshing panzanella makes for a meal that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and watch it become a new favorite!

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