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Sticky Tamarind Chicken with Crisp Lettuce Dinner Recipe

This sticky tamarind chicken recipe is a zesty and sweet-and-spicy dinner option, featuring juicy, caramelized chicken thighs contrasted with crisp lettuce and a zingy touch of sliced jalapeño.
Ideal for a knife-and-fork-friendly meal, it’s perfect for dinner when you’re craving bold, vibrant flavors.
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Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Asian
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons Asian fish sauce
  • 2 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • ½ tablespoon tamarind paste or concentrate
  • ½ teaspoon red chile flakes
  • Zest of 1 lime grated
  • 1 garlic clove grated or minced
  • 3 pounds bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 jalapeño sliced (optional)
  • Crisp lettuce leaves such as Bibb or romaine, for serving

Alternate Version:

  • Substitute boneless chicken breasts or thighs reduce cooking time by 5–10 minutes
  • For wings: use the same glaze roast as directed, and broil briefly to crisp the skin.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F to get it ready for roasting.
  • Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, tamarind paste, red chile flakes, lime zest, and garlic. Whisk everything together until the marinade is smooth and well-blended.
  • Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Add them to the bowl with the marinade and turn them until they are evenly coated. Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet with a rim, and pour any remaining marinade over the top.
    Optional: For a more intense flavor, cover the chicken and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Roast the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the chicken, turning the pieces occasionally to ensure even cooking. Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
  • Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the roasted chicken and add sliced jalapeños, if desired. Serve the chicken on top of crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy contrast to the sticky glaze.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chile flakes or jalapeño.
  • Use tamarind concentrate for a stronger tangy flavor.
  • For a low-carb option, serve with extra lettuce instead of rice or bread.
Keyword Dinner ideas with chicken and tamarind, dinner recipe, Easy tamarind chicken recipe, Sticky chicken dinner recipe, Sweet and spicy chicken thighs, Tamarind chicken with lettuce
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