Soy Sauce Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, approximately 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs)
- 240 ml (1 cup) soy sauce, light or dark as preferred
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) water
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 50 g (1/4 cup) brown sugar, packed
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 5 cm (2 inches) piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp (5 g) Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) sesame oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful exploration of a savory Asian-inspired dish: Soy Sauce Chicken. In this recipe, we delve into the art of creating a succulent chicken dish infused with the rich umami flavor of soy sauce. It’s a dish that can evoke memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations, showcasing a harmonious blend of simplicity and depth of flavor. Perfect for a special dinner or as the centerpiece of a casual feast, this Soy Sauce Chicken recipe is sure to impress with its aromatic allure and tantalizing taste.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden Spoon
- Mug or Small Bowl
- Basting Brush or Spoon
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Clean the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat from the cavity and set it aside.
Step 2: Create the Marinade Base
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the soy sauce, water, Shaoxing wine, and brown sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Step 3: Infuse Aromatics
Add the smashed garlic, sliced ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, and Sichuan peppercorns into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it infuse for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the whole chicken into the pot, breast side down. The liquid should cover at least three-quarters of the chicken. If necessary, add more water. Simmer the chicken on low heat for about 40 minutes, basting occasionally with the liquids.
Step 5: Rotate and Finish Cooking
After 40 minutes, gently turn the chicken over and continue to cook for another 20 minutes. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Step 6: Rest and Enhance Flavor
Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes. Brush with sesame oil for a glossy finish.
Step 7: Carve and Serve
Carve the chicken into desired portions. Serve it over steamed rice and spoon some of the cooking sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Conclusion
You’ve successfully navigated the savory waters of creating a classic Soy Sauce Chicken, a dish rich in tradition and flavor. This preparation offers a glimpse into the art of balancing simplicity with depth, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it in quiet celebration, this recipe promises to deliver both comfort and satisfaction. Keep this culinary treasure in your repertoire to revisit whenever the craving for an aromatic and memorable meal strikes.
