Chinese Five Spice Chicken

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Chinese Five Spice Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that features the distinct taste of Chinese five spice powder. This blend of spices includes star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon (or cassia), Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds. The spices create a complex and fragrant profile that infuses the chicken with deep, warm flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes.

Ingredients

Table of Contents

  • For the Chicken:
    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
    • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
    • 2 tablespoons rice wine or dry sherry
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • 1 tablespoon Chinese five spice powder
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
    • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
  1. Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice wine (or dry sherry), brown sugar, Chinese five spice powder, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well mixed.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken
  1. Preheat Pan: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl the oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
  2. Cook Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden-brown exterior. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  3. Add Marinade: If desired, you can add a splash of the remaining marinade to the skillet towards the end of cooking and let it reduce slightly to create a glaze.
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3. Serve
  1. Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  2. Garnish: Slice the chicken and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
  3. Serve: Serve the chicken with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

  • Marinating Time: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination (up to 4 hours) will enhance the flavor even more.
  • Chicken Thickness: Ensure that chicken pieces are of similar thickness for even cooking.
  • Pan Searing: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure that the chicken sears properly and develops a nice crust.

Variations

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of five spice powder to your taste. You can add more for a stronger flavor or use less if you prefer a milder taste.
  • Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chinese Five Spice Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the aromatic spices of Chinese five spice powder with tender chicken for a delicious and memorable meal. Its rich, complex flavors and easy preparation make it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes of this dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

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