Chicken - Shanghai Style
Shanghai-style chicken features tender chicken thighs or wings simmered in a savory soy-ginger glaze, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish perfect for those who enjoy bold Asian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 20 minutes, remove the cover, increase the heat slightly, and cook for about 15 more minutes.
- Allow the sauce to thicken into a rich brown glaze, coating each piece with the flavorful sauce.
- Toss and stir to coat each piece as the sauce thickens.
- Serve with Chicken Rice-A-Roni.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce mixture for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have dry sherry, a splash of white wine or rice vinegar can work as a substitute. Fresh ginger can be replaced with ground ginger in a pinch, but use less as it's more concentrated. This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a crunchy contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or alongside Chicken Rice-A-Roni for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. This dish also pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the glaze.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it for quick reheating, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken - Shanghai Style contains roughly 173 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2250mg per serving (98% 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 breast instead of thighs or wings?
Yes, you can use chicken breast for a leaner option, but be mindful that it may dry out more easily. To prevent this, consider reducing the cooking time slightly and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I add to the sauce for more depth?
For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or a splash of sesame oil to the sauce. You can also include sliced bell peppers or mushrooms during cooking for added texture and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Shanghai-style chicken holds up well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated. It's perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful dish throughout the week without much hassle.
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).