Chinese red-cooked chicken, also known as “hong shao ji,” is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine.
It features tender chicken pieces braised in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices.
The term “red-cooked” comes from the reddish-brown color the soy sauce imparts to the dish as it cooks.
This dish is savory, slightly sweet, and full of rich umami flavors, making it a favorite for both family dinners and special occasions.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Servings and Difficulty
- Servings: Serves 4-6 people
- Difficulty: Medium
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)
- For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces, or 2 pounds of chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 3 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (use a mix of light and dark soy sauce for a deeper color and flavor)
- 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine) or dry sherry
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 dried red chilies (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredients: sliced mushrooms, hard-boiled eggs, or tofu can be added to the braise for variety.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)
This Chinese red-cooked chicken recipe involves a simple braising technique that results in tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, savory sauce. Follow these steps to create this classic Chinese dish.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If using a whole chicken, cut it into 8 pieces (2 drumsticks, 2 thighs, 2 wings, and 2 breast halves). You can also use pre-cut chicken thighs or drumsticks. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season them with a little salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches, skin side down, and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, and green onions. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the Braising Liquid:
- Pour in the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine and let the mixture come to a simmer.
- Add Spices and Chicken:
- Add the star anise, cinnamon stick, and dried red chilies (if using) to the pot. Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot, arranging them in a single layer. Add enough water or chicken broth to cover the chicken halfway.
- Braise the Chicken:
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chicken simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust Seasoning and Thicken Sauce:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid and let the sauce reduce for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the red-cooked chicken hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice and sautéed greens.
Nutritional Benefits
This Chinese Red-Cooked Chicken is not just delicious but also provides several nutritional benefits!
- Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The spices and aromatics, like ginger, garlic, and green onions, are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Low in Carbs: This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those monitoring their carb intake.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Mushrooms: Add sliced shiitake or button mushrooms to the braise for added texture and umami flavor.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Add hard-boiled eggs to the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a traditional touch.
- Tofu: Include firm tofu cubes in the braise for added protein and texture.
- Vegetables: Add chunks of carrots, potatoes, or daikon radish to make the dish more hearty.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Q&A
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used, but the cooking time will be shorter, and the dish may not be as flavorful as with bone-in pieces.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, as the flavors will develop even more overnight.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze red-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes. A side of sautéed greens or a cucumber salad would also complement the flavors nicely.
Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
Yes, adding dried red chilies or fresh chili peppers to the braise will add heat to the dish. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! This braising method works well with pork, beef, or even duck. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat used.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Ensure the chicken is not overcooked by checking for doneness after 45 minutes. The braising liquid should keep the chicken moist and tender.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can transfer the seared chicken and braising liquid to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender.
What type of soy sauce should I use?
A mix of light and dark soy sauce is recommended for the best flavor and color. Light soy sauce adds saltiness, while dark soy sauce adds color and a deeper flavor.
Enjoy making this flavorful and comforting Chinese Red-Cooked Chicken with Soy Sauce! Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family on social media.
