I love this Yum Yum Chicken because it’s juicy, flavorful, and coated in a creamy, slightly sweet sauce that makes every bite taste special. The dish is simple to make but feels like something from a great restaurant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I make this when I want something comforting and delicious without fuss. The chicken stays tender and moist, and that signature “yum yum” sauce brings it all together with a creamy, tangy, slightly sweet finish. I enjoy how it’s satisfying on its own, but it also goes great with rice or vegetables. It’s one of those meals I’m happy to serve for a weeknight dinner or when friends come over.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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salt
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black pepper
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garlic powder
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paprika
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vegetable oil or olive oil
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butter (optional)
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rice or side of choice
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Yum Yum Sauce (see below)
Yum Yum Sauce (typical components)
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mayonnaise
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ketchup or tomato paste
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honey or sugar
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rice vinegar or lemon juice
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garlic powder
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paprika
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water (to thin)
Directions
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I season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
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I heat a skillet over medium‑high heat and add a bit of oil (and a little butter if I want extra richness).
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Once the skillet is hot, I place the chicken pieces in and cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature about 165°F or 74°C).
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While the chicken cooks, I make the Yum Yum Sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, ketchup or tomato paste, a little honey or sugar, rice vinegar or lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, and enough water to reach a pourable sauce consistency.
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When the chicken is done, I let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it if I want bite‑sized pieces.
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I drizzle the Yum Yum Sauce generously over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
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I serve the chicken with rice or my favorite sides.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings of Yum Yum Chicken.
Total time: about 30–40 minutes from start to finish.
storage/reheating
I store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. I keep the Yum Yum Sauce separate so it doesn’t make the chicken soggy. To reheat, I warm the chicken gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, I stir in a little water before using.
FAQs
What cut of chicken works best for Yum Yum Chicken?
I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs stay a bit juicier, but breasts work great too.
Can I make the Yum Yum Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, I make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge so the flavors develop even more.
Is this recipe spicy?
I keep it mild. If I want a little heat, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the Yum Yum Sauce.
What should I serve with Yum Yum Chicken?
I like it with steamed rice, stir‑fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan‑frying?
Yes, I’ve grilled the seasoned chicken and then added the sauce afterward—it’s delicious that way too.
Conclusion
I find this Yum Yum Chicken recipe easy to make and always satisfying. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it one of my go‑to dinners when I want something flavorful without a lot of work. Whether I serve it with rice or veggies, it’s always a hit.
PrintYum Yum Chicken
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Juicy, flavorful chicken coated in a creamy, slightly sweet Yum Yum Sauce, perfect for a simple yet restaurant-style meal at home.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish/Chicken
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American/Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon butter (optional)
- Cooked rice or preferred side, for serving
- For Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup or tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1–2 tablespoons water, to thin as needed
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil (and butter if using).
- Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- While the chicken cooks, whisk together all Yum Yum Sauce ingredients, adding water as needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
- Once chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice if desired.
- Drizzle Yum Yum Sauce over the chicken or serve on the side for dipping.
- Serve with rice or your preferred sides.
Notes
- Thighs stay juicier than breasts, but both work well.
- Make Yum Yum Sauce ahead of time to enhance flavors.
- Keep leftover sauce separate to avoid soggy chicken.
- Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave; stir water into thickened sauce if needed.
- Optional: add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the Yum Yum Sauce for heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
