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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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