Coca-Cola Chicken

Ingredients:

• 8-10 chicken thighs, skin-on for optimal flavor
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
• 5 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 3 green chilies, sliced (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1 cup Coca-Cola
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (or Thai chili pepper for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to enhance flavor and aid in browning.
2. Brown the Chicken:
   • Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
   • Place the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until the skin turns golden and crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes.
   • Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes on the other side.
   • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced ginger, chopped garlic, and sliced green chilies.
   • Sauté until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes, ensuring not to burn the garlic.
4. Deglaze the Pan and Add Liquids:
   • Pour in the Coca-Cola, soy sauce, and white vinegar.
   • Stir well to combine and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan to enrich the sauce.
5. Add Spices and Simmer:
   • Introduce the star anise and chili flakes or Thai chili pepper to the pan.
   • Stir to incorporate the spices evenly.
6. Cook the Chicken in the Sauce:
   • Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover the pan and let the chicken cook for about 20-30 minutes until cooked through, and the sauce reduces to a thick, glossy glaze.
7. Final Seasoning:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili according to your preference.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the Coca-Cola Chicken hot, garnished with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added touch.
   • This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice or noodles to complement the delicious sauce.