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Ponzu Chicken Recipe

This Ponzu Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknights. I marinate juicy chicken thighs or breasts in a tangy-sweet mix of ponzu sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. It cooks in under 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or veggies. The dish is zesty, umami-rich, and light—ideal for meal prep or a healthy dinner. With a garnish of sesame seeds and green onions, it’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup ponzu sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch optional, for thickening
  • 1 tablespoon water if using cornstarch
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish​

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Serving plates​

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.​
Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.​
Make the Ponzu Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, combine ponzu sauce, honey (or sugar), toasted sesame oil, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.​
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
  1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the simmering sauce and stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.​
Combine and Serve
  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, turning to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Transfer the chicken to serving plates, drizzle with the remaining sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, ensure that the ponzu sauce used is labeled gluten-free, as traditional ponzu may contain wheat.​