Basil Chicken with Kumquats

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thin

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup fresh kumquats, sliced and seeds removed

• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn

• Optional garnish: extra basil and kumquat slices

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Season sliced chicken with salt and pepper.
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Kumquats
   In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Add kumquats and cook for 2–3 minutes, until slightly softened and caramelized.

3. Create the Sauce
   Stir in honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
   Simmer for 2–3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.

4. Combine and Finish
   Return chicken to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce.
   Add fresh basil and stir until just wilted. Remove from heat.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve warm over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles.
   Garnish with extra basil and kumquat slices for a burst of color and flavor.