Introduction

Soy Sauce Chicken is a classic Chinese dish that showcases the rich flavors of soy sauce, aromatic spices, and tender chicken. This recipe delivers a perfectly juicy and flavorful whole chicken, beautifully infused with the savory sauce and subtle notes of ginger, scallions, and star anise. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is best served with steamed rice to soak up the luscious sauce.

Why Make This Recipe

A Flavorful Classic
Soy Sauce Chicken brings together the essence of Chinese cuisine with its bold, savory flavors and aromatic spices. The tender chicken, simmered in a flavorful broth, absorbs every bit of the rich sauce for a truly satisfying dish.

Perfect for Gatherings
This dish is impressive and easily serves a crowd. Whether it’s a festive dinner or a weekend family meal, Soy Sauce Chicken adds a touch of elegance to the table.

Easy to Prepare
While the flavors are complex, the preparation is straightforward. With a few simple steps and a bit of patience, you can create a dish that rivals restaurant-quality Soy Sauce Chicken.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
2 teaspoons oil
7 slices ginger
2 scallions, cut into 3-inch pieces and smashed flat
3 star anise

For the Sauce:

1½ cups Chinese rose wine or Shaoxing wine
1½ cups soy sauce
1¼ cups dark soy sauce
1 cup sugar + 2 tablespoons
2 teaspoons salt
10 cups water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Take the chicken out of the refrigerator about an hour before cooking.
Remove the giblets and rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water.
Tip: Letting the chicken rest at room temperature ensures even cooking.

2. Caramelize the Aromatics

Heat a tall, narrow stockpot over medium-low heat.
Add the oil and ginger slices, letting them caramelize for about 30 seconds.
Toss in the scallions and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Tip: Caramelizing the ginger enhances the depth of flavor.

3. Build the Sauce

Add the star anise and wine to the pot. Let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
Stir in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, salt, and water.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook on low heat for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Cook the Chicken

Increase the heat to a slow boil. Using a roasting fork, carefully lower the chicken into the pot, breast-side up. Ensure there are no air pockets in the cavity.
Cook the chicken at medium-high heat for 5 minutes, then lift it out briefly to empty the cavity of liquid. Lower it back into the sauce.

Tip: Baste the chicken with the sauce during this step for an even coating.

5. Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to a lazy simmer and cook the chicken for 10 minutes.
Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the chicken sit in the sauce for another 25 minutes.

Tip: Letting the chicken rest in the sauce allows it to absorb more flavor.

6. Finish and Serve

Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and baste it generously with the sauce.
Carve the chicken and serve over steamed rice, drizzling extra sauce on top.

How to Serve Soy Sauce Chicken

Classic Pairing: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or egg-fried rice.
Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of chopped scallions or toasted sesame seeds for a fresh and nutty flavor.
Side Dishes: Pair with sautéed greens, such as bok choy or Chinese broccoli, for a complete meal.

How to Store Soy Sauce Chicken

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain moisture.
Freezer: Freeze the sauce in a separate container for up to 3 months. Use it as a base for future recipes.

Tip: When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken stock to thin the sauce if it has thickened too much.

Tips to Make Soy Sauce Chicken

Choose the Right Pot: A tall, narrow stockpot helps submerge the chicken evenly in the sauce.
Flavor Boost: Add a piece of cinnamon stick or a few cloves for a warmer spice profile.
Save the Sauce: The leftover sauce can be reused to cook other meats, tofu, or vegetables.
Alternative Cuts: Use chicken leg quarters for a shorter cooking time without sacrificing flavor.

Variations

Spicy Soy Sauce Chicken: Add dried chili peppers or a tablespoon of chili paste to the sauce for a kick.
Sweet Soy Sauce Chicken: Increase the sugar slightly for a sweeter flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan for a plant-based version.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly and reduce the cooking time. Simmer for about 20–25 minutes.

2. What can I do with the leftover sauce?
The sauce can be frozen and reused for braising meats, cooking tofu, or even as a marinade.

3. How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Soy Sauce Chicken is a timeless recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Its aromatic, savory broth infuses the chicken with deep, rich flavors, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Serve it with rice, savor the flavors, and enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese comfort food!