Description
Learn how to make irresistible honey garlic chicken jerky at home with this easy recipe. Marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, chili garlic sauce, and optional liquid smoke, this homemade jerky is both flavorful and tender. Using a dehydrator or oven to dry the chicken strips, you get a deliciously chewy snack perfect for any time.
Ingredients
Chicken Jerky
- 1 lb chicken breast, trimmed of fat
- â…“ cup soy sauce
- â…“ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional, hickory recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon curing salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, chili garlic sauce, liquid smoke, and curing salt if using. Mix thoroughly and pour into a ziplock bag.
- Slice Chicken: Trim all visible fat from the chicken breasts. Slice the chicken into ¼-inch thick strips for even dehydration and texture.
- Marinate: Place the chicken strips into the marinade-filled ziplock bag. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 6 to 24 hours to allow flavors to infuse deeply.
- Drain Excess Marinade: Remove the chicken strips from the bag and strain off any excess marinade using a colander to prevent sogginess during drying.
- Arrange on Trays: Lay the chicken strips on dehydrator trays, ensuring the pieces do not touch to allow proper airflow and even drying.
- Dehydrate: Set the dehydrator to 160°F and dry the chicken for 4 to 6 hours. Begin checking around 3.5 hours for doneness.
- Check Texture: The jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break in half, indicating proper moisture content and chewiness.
- Optional Heat Treatment: For food safety, you can heat the jerky strips in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes either before or after dehydrating to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.
Notes
- If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can use an oven set at the lowest temperature (around 160°F) and prop the door open slightly for air circulation.
- Using curing salt is optional but helps prevent bacterial growth and extends shelf life.
- Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a cleaner taste.
- Store the jerky in an airtight container and refrigerate to keep it fresh for up to two weeks.
- Always check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.