Green Chicken

Green Chicken at US Restaurants:

Origin:

- Green chicken is not originally from Thailand, despite popular belief.

- It was invented in the 1980s at the Bangkok Gardens restaurant in Houston, Texas.

- The creator, Than Trong, combined his memories of Thai green curry with the popularity of Chinese sweet and sour chicken.

Flavor and Ingredients:

- Green chicken usually features crispy fried chicken tenders tossed in a creamy sauce.

- The sauce is typically made with coconut milk, green curry paste, chicken broth, sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice.

- Common toppings include cilantro, peanuts, and lime wedges.

Common Variations:

- With cashews: Some restaurants add cashews to the sauce for extra crunch.

- With vegetables: Some variations include bell peppers, broccoli, or even pineapple.

- Spicy level: The spiciness level can vary based on the restaurant and your preference.

Popular Restaurants:

Green chicken is widely available at many Asian restaurants in the US, including:

Tips for Ordering:

- Be sure to specify your desired spice level, as some versions can be quite spicy.

- If you want to minimize the spice, ask for the sauce on the side.

- Many restaurants offer vegetarian or tofu alternatives to green chicken.

Cultural Significance:

- Green chicken has become a popular comfort food in the US, despite its Texan origin and not its Thai roots.

- It represents a fusion of flavors and cultures, showcasing the diverse culinary landscape of the US.

Overall:

Green chicken offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, making it a popular and delicious dish that has become an integral part of American Asian cuisine.