Have you ever thought that chicken breast has to be dry or boring to be healthy?
Many people believe that lean chicken cannot be juicy or full of flavor. This recipe proves the opposite. Stick Chicken スティックチキン is light, tender, and deeply satisfying, even though it uses simple ingredients and very little oil. Once you try it, you may never look at chicken breast the same way again.

Table of Contents

Overview

Stick Chicken スティックチキン is a Japanese-style chicken dish made with sliced chicken breast cooked in a gentle salt-based sauce. The chicken is cut into easy-to-eat sticks, lightly coated, pan-fried, and then finished in a savory broth that adds shine and flavor.

What makes this recipe special is its balance. It is soft inside, lightly crisp outside, and coated in a clean, umami-rich sauce. The dish feels comforting but not heavy.

Quick Facts Stick Chicken スティックチキン

Difficulty

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Easy

Total Time

20 minutes quick pan-fry & simmer

Essential Ingredients

Key Ingredients (材料)

Stick Chicken スティックチキン

These carefully chosen ingredients create tender, juicy chicken with a light Japanese-style salt sauce. Each card explains the role of the ingredient and offers simple substitution ideas.

1

Chicken Breast (350g)

Lean chicken breast becomes tender when sliced into sticks and cooked gently. This cut absorbs flavor well while staying light and juicy.

Substitution ideas:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Skinless chicken thigh (richer taste)

2

Potato Starch

A light coating protects the chicken from drying out and gives it a soft, crisp surface.

3

White Onion (40g)

Finely chopped onion adds natural sweetness and softens quickly in the sauce.

4

Sake

Japanese sake removes any raw smell and adds gentle depth to the sauce.

5

Granulated Chicken Stock

Adds clean umami flavor without overpowering the chicken.

6

Green Shiso Leaves

Fresh shiso adds a bright, herbal aroma that finishes the dish cleanly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into even sticks about 1.5 cm wide. Lightly sprinkle with salt, then coat each piece thinly with potato starch. Shake off any extra starch so the coating stays light.

Step 2: Pan-Fry

Heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chicken sticks and cook while turning gently. Fry until all sides are lightly golden and the surface feels firm.

Step 3: Simmer in Sauce

In a small bowl, mix water, sake, chicken stock, and salt. Pour this mixture into the pan along with the chopped onion. Let it simmer briefly while turning the chicken so the sauce coats every piece and becomes glossy.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Transfer the chicken to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with shredded green shiso leaves just before serving to keep their fresh aroma.

Secrets to Success and Expert Tips

These practical tips will help you cook tender, juicy Stick Chicken スティックチキン with a light, glossy finish every time:

• ♥
  Slice the chicken evenly
  Cutting the chicken into similar-sized sticks helps it cook at the same speed and keeps every piece tender.
• ♥
  Use a light starch coating
  A thin layer of potato starch protects the meat from drying out and creates a soft surface without heaviness.
• ♥
  Cook over medium heat
  Gentle heat allows the chicken to brown lightly while staying moist inside. High heat can make it tough.
• ♥
  Simmer the sauce briefly
  Once the sauce is added, keep the cooking time short so the chicken absorbs flavor without overcooking.
• ♥
  Add shiso at the end
  Fresh shiso leaves should be added just before serving to keep their aroma bright and refreshing.

Assembly and Presentation

Arrange the chicken sticks neatly in a shallow bowl or Japanese plate. Spoon a little of the glossy sauce over the top. Finish with finely shredded shiso leaves placed lightly in the center.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in a pan with a small splash of water to keep the chicken soft.
• Avoid microwaving for too long, as chicken breast can dry quickly.
• This dish is best enjoyed fresh but works well for next-day meals.

Recipe Variations

Stick Chicken スティックチキン is easy to adapt, making it perfect for different tastes and meals. With small changes, you can enjoy new flavors while keeping the dish light and balanced.

1

Add Extra Flavor

Small additions can change the taste without making the dish heavy:

• Grated ginger for warmth
• A few drops of light soy sauce for deeper umami
• Garlic paste for a richer aroma

2

Change the Sauce Style

Adjust the liquid ingredients to suit your preference:

• Add butter at the end for a smooth finish
• Use dashi instead of water for a Japanese depth
• Reduce the sauce longer for a thicker glaze

3

Adjust the Texture

You can control how crisp or soft the chicken feels:

• Pan-fry longer before adding sauce for crisp edges
• Use less starch for a lighter surface
• Cover the pan briefly to keep extra moisture

4

Serve It Differently

This dish fits many meals and settings:

• Serve over steamed rice as a bowl
• Add to ramen or noodle soup as a topping
• Pack in a bento box with vegetables

Recipe to Try Next

If you enjoyed making Stick Chicken スティックチキン, here are two Japanese recipes that pair beautifully with it or are worth trying next. Both focus on simple techniques, clean flavors, and tender textures.

Tender Chicken Breast Char Siu チキンチャーシュー
This recipe transforms chicken breast into a soft, juicy char siu-style dish using a gently sweet and savory Japanese-inspired sauce. It is perfect for meal prep, rice bowls, or as a protein topping for noodles. The cooking method keeps the chicken moist while adding deep flavor.

Shio Ramen 塩ラーメン
Shio Ramen is a light and clear Japanese ramen known for its clean, umami-rich broth. It pairs very well with chicken-based toppings and simple side dishes. This recipe focuses on balance, making it ideal when you want a comforting meal that does not feel heavy.

Conclusion

Stick Chicken スティックチキン shows how simple ingredients can create a satisfying and elegant meal. It is quick, light, and flexible, making it perfect for busy days or careful eating. With just a few Japanese touches, chicken breast becomes something comforting and enjoyable. Try it once, and it may become a regular dish in your kitchen.

FAQs

Is Stick Chicken スティックチキン healthy?

Yes. It uses lean chicken breast, minimal oil, and a light sauce.

Can I make this without sake?

Yes. You can replace sake with water, but the flavor will be lighter.

Why use potato starch instead of flour?

Potato starch creates a softer coating and keeps the chicken moist.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prep the chicken and onion ahead of time, but cook just before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed rice, miso soup, or simple vegetables pair well with this recipe.

Did you make this recipe?

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