As the bubbling aromas of garlic and ginger waft through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement for dinner. Enter Chinese Three Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji), a delightful dish that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable experience. With juicy chicken thighs simmered in a glossy, savory sauce, this is the perfect quick dinner recipe, ready in just 25 minutes. What I love most about this dish is how effortlessly it balances comfort and excitement—ideal for those busy weeknights yet special enough to impress friends at a dinner party. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring a taste of Asian cuisine right to your table. Are you ready to dive into this flavorful journey and create something truly satisfying?
Why is Chinese Three Cup Chicken a must-try?
Flavorful Explosion: This dish delivers a robust, savory flavor thanks to the perfect blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to modify the recipe to fit your pantry with options like chicken breasts or firm tofu for a vegetarian spin.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, the sticky, rich sauce and tender chicken will leave everyone asking for seconds.
So next time you’re in the mood for something special, give this Chinese Three Cup Chicken a try—it’s just as delightful paired with jasmine rice as it is alongside honey hot chicken or served with a side of Colombian chicken stew!
Chinese Three Cup Chicken Ingredients
• A delectable array to create your savory dish.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – The key to tenderness and rich flavor; boneless is faster for cooking.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor and drawing moisture from the chicken.
- White Pepper – Offers subtle heat, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Cornstarch – Coats the chicken for a crispy texture; make sure it’s evenly applied.
For the Sauce
- Vegetable Oil – Perfect for stir-frying; any neutral oil works fine as a substitute.
- Ginger – Brings aromatic warmth to the dish, an essential for that authentic taste.
- Garlic – Adds savory depth to complement the sauce beautifully.
- Red Chili – Introduces heat and vibrant color; adjust based on your spice preference.
- Green Onions – Contributes freshness and a slight bite to balance the flavors.
- Shaoxing Wine – An authentic ingredient for depth; dry sherry can work in a pinch.
- Soy Sauce – The foundation of the sauce, providing umami and saltiness; essential for the dish.
- Sesame Oil – Enhances flavor with its nutty quality, making the dish memorable.
- Sugar or Honey – Balances savory elements with sweetness, giving the sauce its syrupy texture.
- Thai Basil – Enriches the aroma with its unique flavor; regular basil can be substituted if needed.
Get ready to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and will have everyone coming back for more! With these ingredients for Chinese Three Cup Chicken, you’ll be set for a delightful cooking experience.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Three Cup Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the cut chicken with salt, cornstarch, and white pepper, ensuring an even coating. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture when cooked. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined. This savory and slightly sweet sauce will serve as the flavorful base for your Chinese Three Cup Chicken. Set the mixture aside, as you’ll pour it over the chicken later for that delightful glaze.
Step 3: Heat the Wok
Place a wok over high heat and add vegetable oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering—this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Once the oil is hot, add minced ginger, chopped garlic, sliced red chili, and green onions. Stir-fry these aromatics for 10-15 seconds or until they become fragrant, filling your kitchen with their wonderful aroma.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the wok. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it browns evenly on all sides. As the chicken cooks, pour in Shaoxing wine to deglaze the pan, scraping the bottom to incorporate any flavorful bits. The alcohol will evaporate, enhancing the dish’s authenticity.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken is nicely browned, pour the prepared sauce evenly over it. Allow it to bubble and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken beautifully. Watch closely for the glossy finish—the hallmark of a perfect Chinese Three Cup Chicken.
Step 6: Add the Basil
Finally, gently stir in a generous handful of Thai basil leaves into the steaming chicken. Let them wilt for about a minute while turning off the heat. The fragrant basil will impart an aromatic touch to your dish, making it irresistible. Serve it hot immediately over steamed jasmine rice for a truly satisfying meal.
Storage Tips for Chinese Three Cup Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken stays flavorful and moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chinese Three Cup Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat thoroughly in a wok or skillet over medium heat until piping hot, stirring frequently to avoid burning the sauce. Enjoy this savory meal still bursting with flavor!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and maintain quality.
Expert Tips for Chinese Three Cup Chicken
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Proper Heat: Ensure your wok is properly heated before adding oil. This guarantees a great sear on the chicken for delicious texture and flavor.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary—overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of browning it, resulting in a less desirable texture.
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Watch the Aromatics: Stir frequently when adding ginger, garlic, and chili. They can burn quickly, but their flavor is essential for your Chinese Three Cup Chicken.
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Deglaze Effectively: Using Shaoxing wine is key for depth, but make sure to scrape the bottom of the wok—those browned bits add incredible flavor to your dish.
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Adjust for Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice level by adjusting the amount of red chili or sugar in the sauce depending on your preference.
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Perfect Serving: Serve the dish immediately over jasmine rice, maximizing those lovely sticky sauce flavors. Enjoy your meal while it’s hot!
Chinese Three Cup Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore and customize your Chinese Three Cup Chicken for an even more delightful dining experience!
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Vegetarian alternative: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan for a satisfying plant-based dish. The flavors will shine through just as beautifully!
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Different protein: Try using shrimp or pork as alternatives to chicken. Each option brings a unique twist while still soaking up the tantalizing sauce.
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Spicy kick: Amp up the heat by adding more red chili or even incorporating sriracha for a fiery version of this dish. Each bite will be a delightful adventure.
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Coconut twist: Incorporate a splash of coconut milk into the sauce for a creamy, tropical flavor, giving a whole new dimension to this savory classic.
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Fresh herbs: Instead of Thai basil, try using mint or cilantro. Both bring a refreshing touch that complements the chicken’s rich flavors wonderfully.
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Whole grain boost: Serve your dish over quinoa or brown rice instead of jasmine rice for added nutty depth and extra nutrients. It’s a tasty twist that won’t compromise on flavor!
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Crispy additions: For a crunchy texture, top the dish with toasted sesame seeds or fried shallots before serving. The added crunch is a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
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Garlic lovers: If you’re passionate about garlic, increase the amount or even include roasted garlic for a sweeter, deeper flavor profile that adds to the dish’s allure.
When you’re ready, enjoy this easy and hearty meal alongside accompanying dishes, such as Chimichurri Grilled Chicken or New Orleans Chicken. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Three Cup Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken thighs and coat them with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, allowing deep flavor infusion and maintaining tenderness. Additionally, the sauce can be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 3 days to enhance its savory profile. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the wok and follow the final steps, adding the marinated chicken and sauce. This way, you ensure a quick, delicious meal that’s just as delightful as if prepared fresh, making weekday dinners an effortless affair!
What to Serve with Chinese Three Cup Chicken
Transform your dinner into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that balance flavors, textures, and colors!
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Steamed Jasmine Rice:
This fluffy, aromatic rice serves as the perfect canvas for soaking up the glossy, savory sauce, making every bite a satisfying experience. -
Miso-Glazed Vegetables:
Offering a slightly sweet and umami flavor, these tender veggies bring a fresh contrast to the rich chicken, elevating the meal. -
Crispy Asian Slaw:
With its crunchy cabbage and vibrant carrots tossed in a tangy dressing, this slaw adds a refreshing, crunchy element alongside your chicken. -
Egg Fried Rice:
Silky, flavorful fried rice complements the chicken’s texture and enhances the dish’s Asian flair with every mouthful. -
Chili Garlic Noodles:
These spicy noodles add a delicious kick and additional depth of flavor, making each bite both exciting and comforting. -
Cucumber Salad:
Cool, crisp cucumbers tossed in a zesty dressing provide a perfect contrast to the warm chicken, refreshing the palate with every bite. -
Hot and Sour Soup:
A bowl of this classic soup introduces a warming fullness and a conversational kick, perfect for kicking off your meal with robust flavors. -
Green Tea:
This light and aromatic drink cleanses the palate without overpowering the senses, making it an ideal beverage choice. -
Mango Sticky Rice:
For dessert, this sweet treat of sticky rice paired with juicy mango is a delightful way to finish off your flavorful meal on a sweet note.
Chinese Three Cup Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump and have a uniform color with minimal dark spots. Opt for boneless thighs for a quick cooking time, but if you prefer bone-in for flavor, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How should I store leftovers from my Chinese Three Cup Chicken?
For optimal freshness, store your Chinese Three Cup Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it flavorful and tender. I often label the container with the date so I can enjoy it at its best!
Can I freeze Chinese Three Cup Chicken?
Certainly! To freeze, transfer the cooled chicken into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in a wok or skillet until hot throughout.
What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
Very good question! If you find that your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, it could be due to low heat or not allowing it to simmer adequately. Make sure your wok is at a bubbling boil when you add the sauce. If it still seems runny, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce while stirring until it reaches the desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with the soy sauce, as it contains gluten. You can use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce as an alternative. It’s also a good idea to check the Shaoxing wine if there are any sensitivities; dry sherry is a fine substitute. For pet safety, ensure your leftovers don’t contain any garlic, as it can be harmful to pets.
What if I don’t have Thai basil?
No worries! While Thai basil adds a unique touch, you can easily substitute it with regular basil or even cilantro. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Chinese Three Cup Chicken: 25-Minute Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Combine with salt, cornstarch, and white pepper in a mixing bowl. Allow to marinate for 10 minutes.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until combined. Set aside.
- Heat the Wok: Place a wok over high heat, add vegetable oil, and heat until shimmering. Add ginger, garlic, red chili, and green onions, stir-fry for 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Chicken: Add marinated chicken to the wok. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, browning evenly. Pour in Shaoxing wine to deglaze the pan.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Pour sauce over the chicken, cook for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Basil: Stir in Thai basil leaves and let them wilt for a minute. Serve hot over jasmine rice.
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