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Three Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji)

Savor the Comfort of Three Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji) at Home

Experience the rich flavors of Three Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji), a beloved Taiwanese dish that combines savory soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil can substitute with canola or peanut oil
  • 1/4 cup Shaoxing Wine substitute with dry sherry if needed
  • 2-5 teaspoons Dark Soy Sauce adjust quantity for lighter taste
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce ensures seasoning without overpowering
  • 2 teaspoons Sugar brown sugar can be used for added depth
For the Chicken
  • 2 1/4 pounds Chicken Wings pre-cut drummettes or wingettes can save prep time
  • 6 slices Ginger fresh ginger is ideal for best flavor
  • 5 cloves Garlic sliced; always use fresh garlic for better texture
  • 1 piece Dried Chili halved; adjust spice based on preference
  • 1/4 cup Warm Water can use broth for extra flavor boost
For the Finish
  • 1 small bunch Thai Basil can substitute with scallions
  • 2 pieces Scallions cut into 2-inch lengths; optional

Equipment

  • wok

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 6 slices of ginger, 5 sliced garlic cloves, and 1 halved dried chili. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until garlic is golden and fragrant.
  2. Increase the heat to high and carefully add 2 1/4 pounds of chicken wings to the wok in a single layer. Sear the wings for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Add 1/4 cup of warm water, 1/4 cup of Shaoxing wine, 2-5 teaspoons of dark soy sauce, 1 1/2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of sugar to the wok. Stir well and cover the wok. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes over medium heat.
  4. Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high to reduce the sauce. Stir frequently for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens, coating the wings in a glossy glaze.
  5. Toss in a small bunch of Thai basil or 2 cut scallions, and fry for an additional minute until wilted and fragrant.
  6. Plate the Three Cup Chicken hot, pouring any remaining sauce over the top. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, serve hot; the sauce can firm up as it cools. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

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