Plum Sauce Chicken Recipe: Best Recipe In 2025

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Are you craving that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that only plum sauce chicken recipe can deliver? You’re in the right place! This comprehensive guide doesn’t just give you one way to make this Chinese-inspired favorite—you’ll discover three foolproof methods plus how to make your own restaurant-quality plum sauce from scratch. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning to impress guests, this versatile recipe delivers mouthwatering results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Plum Sauce Chicken Recipe

Incredible flavor profile – The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory with that unmistakable plum richness
Multiple cooking options – Choose from oven-baked, stovetop, or grilled methods to fit your preference and schedule
Simple, clear instructions – Even kitchen beginners can achieve restaurant-quality results
Homemade sauce option – Elevate your dish with an authentic plum sauce chicken recipe that beats anything store-bought
Better than takeout – Save money and enjoy fresher, more flavorful results without leaving home

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on recommended for baking method)
- Alternatively: chicken breasts, drumsticks, or wings work too!
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil (for cooking)

For the Plum Sauce:

Option 1: Quick & Easy (Store-Bought)

For those busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast, a quality store-bought plum sauce chicken recipe works perfectly. Look for brands with:

Real plum as the first ingredient
No artificial colors or preservatives
A thick, glossy consistency
Brands like Lee Kum Kee, Dynasty, or Wok Mei typically offer excellent quality

Option 2: The BEST Homemade Plum Sauce (Highly Recommended)

This homemade version takes your plum sauce chicken from good to extraordinary!

1 cup plum jam (or 6 fresh plums, pitted and diced)
3 tablespoons soy plum sauce chicken recipe (low-sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Quick Homemade Sauce Instructions:

If using fresh plums, simmer them with 2 tablespoons water in a saucepan for 10 minutes until soft.
Combine all sauce ingredients in a small saucepan.
Simmer on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
For a smooth consistency, blend or mash the sauce.
Let cool slightly before using (sauce will thicken more as it cools).

How to Make Plum Sauce Chicken (Step-by-Step)

Method 1: Baked Plum Sauce Chicken (Perfectly Glazed)

This method delivers incredibly juicy chicken with a beautiful caramelized glaze.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels (this helps achieve crispy skin).
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
Place chicken skin-side down in the hot skillet and sear for 5 minutes until golden.
Flip chicken pieces and brush generously with 1/3 of your plum sauce.
Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from oven, brush with another 1/3 of the sauce, and return to oven.
Bake an additional 5-10 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
For extra caramelization, broil for 2-3 minutes (watch carefully to prevent burning).
Let rest for 5 minutes, then brush with remaining sauce before serving.

Method 2: Pan-Seared / Stovetop Plum Sauce Chicken (Quick & Saucy)

Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner ready fast!

If using chicken breasts, slice into 1-inch strips (thighs can be left whole).
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in 2/3 of the plum sauce.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, occasionally turning chicken to coat evenly.
Check that chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
If sauce becomes too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons water.
Serve with remaining sauce drizzled on top.

Method 3: Grilled Plum Sauce Chicken (Smoky & Delicious)

The perfect summer cooking method that adds incredible smoky flavor.

Preheat grill to medium heat (around 375°F/190°C).
In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup of plum sauce with 1 tablespoon oil to create a thin marinade.
Coat chicken pieces in the marinade and let sit for 15-30 minutes.
Oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
Place chicken on the grill, close lid, and cook for 5-7 minutes.
Flip chicken and brush with 1/4 cup plum sauce.
Continue grilling with lid closed for another 5-7 minutes.
Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
During the last 2 minutes, brush with another layer of sauce.
Remove from grill and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Serve with remaining sauce on the side.

Watch: How to Make Plum Sauce Chicken (Video)

[Video placeholder: Demonstration of the baked plum sauce chicken method with clear instructions on achieving the perfect glaze]

Top Tips for Success

For crispy skin: Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning and ensure your pan or oven is fully preheated.
Perfect glaze consistency: If your plum sauce is too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons of water at a time until you reach desired consistency. If too thin, simmer a few extra minutes.
Temperature is key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
Make ahead tip: The homemade plum sauce can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Choosing plums: For homemade sauce, look for ripe, fragrant plums with a slight give when gently squeezed.

Variations & Substitutions

Spice it up: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hot kick.
Chicken cuts: Adjust cooking times based on your choice of cut:
- Boneless thighs: Reduce cooking time by about 5 minutes
- Chicken breasts: Check temperature earlier as they can dry out quickly
- Wings: Great for appetizers; cook at the same temperature but check after 20 minutes
Sweet options: Substitute brown sugar for honey, or try maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Vinegar alternatives: Apple cider vinegar works well if you don’t have rice vinegar.
Veggie add-ins: For a one-pan meal, add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking (baked method) or the last 5 minutes (stovetop method).

What to Serve with Plum Sauce Chicken

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with many sides:

Rice options: Fluffy jasmine rice, coconut rice, or simple fried rice with egg and green onions
Noodles: Lo mein, rice noodles, or udon tossed with a little sesame oil
Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, bok choy, or a colorful stir-fry of mixed Asian vegetables
Fresh elements: Simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing or a crunchy slaw with carrots and cabbage

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Plum sauce chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating for best results:
- Oven method (preferred): Place chicken in a covered dish with 1-2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use 50% power in 30-second intervals, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Avoid reheating more than once for food safety and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check the ingredients in your store-bought plum sauce if using that option. The homemade sauce can be fully controlled to be gluten-free.

Is plum sauce chicken very sweet?

Plum sauce has a natural sweetness balanced with savory and tangy notes. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey or sugar in the homemade sauce by half, or add an extra tablespoon of vinegar for more tanginess.

My sauce is too thin/thick, how do I fix it?

For thin sauce: Continue simmering until it reaches your desired consistency. For thick sauce: Add water or chicken broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach the perfect consistency.

Can I use chicken wings?

Yes! Chicken wings work beautifully with this plum sauce. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 40-45 minutes, brushing with sauce every 15 minutes for a delicious sticky glaze.

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