Red Chinese Chicken
Red Chinese Chicken features tender poultry infused with aromatic ginger, anise, and cinnamon, simmered in soy, sherry, and sesame oil for a flavorful, aromatic meal perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ginger, anise, cinnamon, and peppercorns in a Dutch oven and pour over the whole chicken.
- Bake covered at 350°F for one hour, basting 2 to 3 times during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce, sherry, and sesame oil overnight. If you can't find anise, star anise can be used as a substitute. Fresh ginger is preferred, but ground ginger can work in a pinch. Adjust the amount of peppercorns based on your spice tolerance, and consider adding a dash of chili flakes for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this flavorful chicken with steamed rice or Yuki'S Fried Rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of stir-fried vegetables or Asparagus Peking Style adds a nice crunch and color to the meal. For a complete dinner, pair it with a light soup like Egg Drop Soup (Aka Bird Drop Soup) to balance the richness of the chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Red Chinese Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Chinese Chicken contains roughly 199 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken. Adjust cooking time accordingly, baking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method will still yield flavorful results, just ensure the spices are well-distributed.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a sliced fresh chili pepper to the Dutch oven before baking. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.
What can I serve as a side dish with this chicken?
This chicken pairs well with various sides, such as steamed broccoli or bok choy, to complement the flavors. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside fried rice, like Yuki'S Fried Rice, or noodles to create a satisfying meal.
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).