Sous Vide Chicken Kebabs with Soy, Ginger, Honey & Lime

Introduction

When I first came across the recipe for Sous Vide Chicken Kebabs with Soy, Ginger, Honey, and Lime, I was intrigued. The combination of flavors sounded delightful, and I was eager to see how sous vide cooking could elevate a simple chicken kebab into something special. After preparing this dish for my family, I can confidently say it exceeded our expectations. The chicken was incredibly tender, infused with vibrant flavors, and the slight char from finishing it on the grill added a wonderful texture. My kids couldn’t get enough, and my partner even suggested we make this a regular in our meal rotation. Here’s a detailed look at how to recreate this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Kebabs:

• 500-550g skinless boneless chicken breast meat
• Lime wedges to serve

For the Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 teaspoons grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
• 2 teaspoons sriracha hot sauce (or more if you like it hotter)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into even-sized pieces, ideally about 1.5 inches thick. Place the chicken in a Ziploc or vacuum sealer bag.
2. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, lime zest and juice, crushed garlic, grated ginger, sunflower oil, and sriracha. Make sure the ingredients are well combined.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Pour half of the marinade into the bag with the chicken. Seal the bag using a vacuum sealer or employ the displacement method by submerging the bag in water to remove excess air before sealing.
4. Cook in the Instant Pot: Fill the Instant Pot with water to the 2/3 level. Submerge the sealed bag of chicken in the water, ensuring the seal remains above the water line. Close the lid.
5. Set Sous Vide Function: Set the Sous Vide function to 65°C (149°F) and cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
6. Finish Cooking: Once the time is up, remove the bag from the water bath. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
7. Heat Remaining Marinade: In a small pot, heat the remaining half of the marinade over medium heat until it thickens. You can add some liquid from the cooked chicken to adjust the consistency.
8. Baste and Cook: Baste the chicken skewers with the heated marinade and grill briefly over a fire or in a griddle pan until slightly charred.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the kebabs with lime wedges for an added zesty touch.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (including marinating and cooking)
• Active Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve kebabs with lime wedges for squeezing.
• Pair with steamed rice or quinoa.
• Include a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer extra sriracha on the side for those who enjoy more heat.

Additional Tips

1. Use a Good Marinade: Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour will enhance the flavors significantly, but overnight marination is even better.
2. Skewer Wisely: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
3. Monitor Temperature: Ensure your sous vide water bath maintains the correct temperature throughout the cooking process for best results.
4. Grill or Broil: If you don’t have access to a grill, broiling the skewers in the oven works well too.
5. Add Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Option: Increase the amount of sriracha in the marinade for a spicier kick.
• Herb Infusion: Add chopped cilantro or parsley to the marinade for an herby flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Use orange or lemon juice in place of lime for a different citrus profile.
• Honey Alternatives: Swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
• Different Proteins: Try this recipe with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on kebabs.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve kebabs with a side of coconut rice for a tropical feel.
• Pair with a yogurt sauce or tzatziki for a refreshing dip.
• Enjoy with a cold beverage, like iced tea or a light beer, to complement the flavors.
• Create a wrap by using flatbreads, filling them with the chicken and fresh veggies.
• Serve with a light Asian-style slaw for a crunchy contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag and ensure it’s sealed well. It can be frozen for up to three months.
• Storage: Cooked kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs will work well and provide more flavor due to their fat content.

1. What is sous vide cooking?

• Sous vide cooking involves vacuum-sealing food in a bag and cooking it to a very precise temperature in a water bath.

1. How do I ensure the chicken is safe to eat?

• Cooking the chicken at 65°C (149°F) for 1.5 hours will ensure it is safe to eat.

1. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

• Yes, marinating overnight can enhance the flavors even more.

1. What if I don’t have a sous vide machine?

• You can achieve similar results using a slow cooker on low heat, though cooking times will differ.

1. Can I use other marinades?

• Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

1. What’s the best way to serve these kebabs?

• They can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer with dipping sauces.

1. Can I make these kebabs on a grill?

• Yes! You can grill the chicken skewers instead of finishing them in a pan.

1. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• The chicken should be opaque and firm to the touch. Sous vide ensures it’s cooked perfectly.

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   • It’s best to thaw the chicken before marinating for even flavor distribution.

Conclusion

Sous Vide Chicken Kebabs with Soy, Ginger, Honey, and Lime are not just a meal; they’re an experience. The method of sous vide cooking guarantees perfectly tender chicken every time, while the marinade provides an explosion of flavor that will impress anyone you serve. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these kebabs are sure to be a hit. With a few simple steps and some time, you can create a delicious dish that everyone will love. So grab your sous vide machine, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a culinary adventure!

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