5 Spice Chinese Chicken
A flavorful Chinese-inspired chicken dish with five-spice, soy sauce, and aromatic spices, perfect for those who enjoy bold, savory flavors with tender baked chicken.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375F.
- Wash chicken under cold water and drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, chopped onions, minced garlic, and ground ginger; mix well.
- Add chicken breasts to the mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Marinate the chicken for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Place the marinated chicken in a lightly greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and black pepper, then sprinkle over the chicken.
- Bake the chicken covered for 30 minutes, then remove the cover and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. If you don't have soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos can be good substitutes. Adjust the spices to your taste; adding a touch of honey can balance the savory notes. To enhance the dish, serve with steamed broccoli or a side of rice, like in Orange Chicken And Rice Skillet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 5 Spice Chinese Chicken over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh cucumber salad with a light dressing can offer a nice crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with Ginger Chicken Teriyaki for a flavorful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5 Spice Chinese Chicken contains roughly 372 calories, with 31g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1800mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I serve with this chicken dish?
This chicken dish is versatile; it pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a simple salad. For a twist, consider serving it with baked chow mein for a delightful contrast.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the marinade. Adjust the amount to your spice preference for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).