Three Cup Chicken: The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Recipe

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Craving an explosion of savory, sweet, and utterly delicious flavor in one pan?

Ready to discover the magic of Three Cup Chicken? This Taiwanese sensation is easier to make than you think, and it’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends with its incredible aroma and taste. Get ready for a culinary adventure that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. The method comes naturally, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Why You’ll Love It

The intensely flavorful sauce will naturally coat every piece of chicken, making each bite a taste bud sensation.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills and ingredients.
It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal.
The dish is naturally gluten-free (be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce!).
You can easily customize the level of spice and sweetness to your liking.
Three Cup Chicken is naturally served family-style, making it ideal for sharing.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This Three Cup Chicken recipe stands out because of its perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The traditional recipe calls for equal parts soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil, creating a rich, complex sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. Fresh ginger, garlic, and basil naturally infuse the dish with aromatic and savory notes, making it irresistible. This version also simplifies the steps without sacrificing any of the incredible flavor that makes Three Cup Chicken so special.

Ingredient List

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces.
1/2 cup soy sauce (naturally brewed). The soy sauce is the base of the sauce, providing saltiness and umami.
1/2 cup rice wine (Shaoxing or Mirin).
1/2 cup sesame oil. The sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and rich flavor.
1 cup fresh basil leaves.
1/4 cup ginger, thinly sliced.
6 cloves garlic, minced.
2-3 red chilies, sliced (optional).
1 tablespoon sugar.
1 tablespoon cornstarch.
2 tablespoons water.
Cooked rice, for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch and water. Mix well to coat. This will help the chicken brown and the sauce thicken.
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the ginger and garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the chili (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Pour in the soy sauce and rice wine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Stir in the sugar. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through. Make sure the sauce naturally thickens.
Stir in the fresh basil leaves right before serving.
Serve hot over cooked rice.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Here are some ideas to elevate your Three Cup Chicken:

Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish for added texture and nutty flavor.
Green Onions: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Extra Chili: For those who like it hot, add more sliced red chilies or a dash of chili oil.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality soy sauce and sesame oil for the best flavor. Naturally brewed soy sauce is always a good choice.
Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken. This adds depth of flavor and texture.
Be mindful of the heat. Garlic burns easily, so keep the heat at medium-high and stir frequently.
Add the basil at the very end to preserve its fresh flavor and vibrant color.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or rice wine to thin it out. If the sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce.
Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You may want to add more sugar for sweetness or a pinch of salt for extra savory flavor. The method comes naturally, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
While chicken thighs are more naturally flavorful and tender, you can use chicken breast. Be sure not to overcook it, or it will become dry. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat before serving. You should prepare it naturally and serve it.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Three Cup Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Three Cup Chicken?
It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the chicken and basil may change upon thawing. But you can freeze it naturally.
What can I substitute for rice wine?
If you don’t have rice wine, you can substitute dry sherry or chicken broth.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

Vegetarian Three Cup “Chicken”: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, cut into cubes. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Spicy Three Cup Chicken: Add more red chilies or a dash of chili oil for an extra kick.
Mushroom Three Cup Chicken: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the ginger and garlic for a heartier dish.
Three Cup Shrimp: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a quicker cooking time and different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Three Cup Chicken is traditionally served over fluffy white rice, which perfectly soaks up the flavorful sauce. It’s also delicious with a side of steamed vegetables, such as bok choy or broccoli, to balance out the richness of the dish. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. It can naturally be paired with rice.

Ready to make some magic in your kitchen? This Three Cup Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be amazed by the explosion of flavors. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your delicious creation and share it with your friends! You’ll naturally want to make this again and again!

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