Taiwanese Style Three Cup Chicken

Name: Taiwanese Style Three Cup Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Ingredients: 1.5 kg bone-in chicken thighs (cut into pieces); 1/3 cup soy sauce (light); 1/3 cup sesame oil (toasted); 1/3 cup rice wine (Shaoxing or mirin); 1 tablespoon sugar; 8 cloves garlic (peeled and crushed); 5 slices ginger (thumb-sized); 2 pieces red chili (sliced); 1 cup fresh basil leaves

45 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savour the rich and aromatic flavours of Taiwanese style three cup chicken, a dish perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Three cup chicken, or 'San Bei Ji', is a classic Taiwanese dish known for its rich and aromatic flavour profile. The name originates from the traditional use of equal parts soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine—each adding depth to the dish. This version of Taiwanese style three cup chicken is designed to bring authentic flavours to your kitchen with accessible ingredients. The combination of ginger, garlic, and basil gives it a fresh, enticing aroma that's hard to resist. Whether you're a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking for a new and exciting chicken recipe, this dish promises to deliver a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with steamed rice.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into smaller pieces, about 2 inches each.

Pro tip: Using bone-in chicken adds depth to the flavour.

Mix the sauce

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Pro tip: Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Cook the aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame oil from the sauce ingredients and sauté the garlic, ginger, and red chili until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Pro tip: Do not let the garlic burn as it will become bitter.

Brown the chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until they are browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the chicken is dry before adding to the pan to achieve a good sear.

Simmer with sauce

Pour the sauce over the chicken. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: The sauce should thicken slightly as it cooks.

Add basil and finish

Increase the heat to medium-high, add the basil leaves, and stir until the leaves are wilted and the sauce is reduced, about 3-5 minutes.

Pro tip: Fresh basil is essential for authentic flavour; do not substitute with dried.

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Tips & Tricks

Use bone-in chicken for authentic flavour.
Adjust the amount of chili for desired spiciness.
Fresh basil adds an aromatic finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Taiwanese style three cup chicken?

Taiwanese style three cup chicken is a traditional dish featuring chicken cooked in equal parts soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine.

Why is it called three cup chicken?

The name 'three cup chicken' comes from the use of one cup each of soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine in the traditional recipe.

How long does it take to cook three cup chicken?

The total cooking time for three cup chicken is about 45 minutes, including prep.

Can I make three cup chicken with boneless chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but bone-in provides more flavour.

How many calories are in Taiwanese style three cup chicken?

A serving of Taiwanese style three cup chicken contains approximately 450 calories.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Taiwanese style three cup chicken with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the savoury sauce. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of sautéed Asian greens or a simple cucumber salad. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the tender texture of the chicken.