Three Cup Chicken

Experience the irresistible allure of *Three Cup Chicken*, a beloved Taiwanese dish that’s as fragrant as it is flavorful. This recipe combines tender, bone-in chicken thighs with the perfect trifecta of sesame oil, soy sauce, and Shaoxing rice wine—each measured in equal portions for that signature “three cup” harmony. Infused with the warm spice of ginger, the bold punch of garlic, and the aromatic freshness of basil leaves, every bite offers a symphony of savory, slightly sweet flavors. A mild kick from optional red chilies adds just the right amount of heat for those who love a little spice. Braised to perfection in a glossy, caramelized glaze, this easy and authentic dish comes together in 25 minutes, making it a comforting weeknight staple. Serve it hot with fluffy steamed rice to soak up the mouthwatering sauce, and savor the essence of Taiwan right at your dinner table.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/3 cup Sesame oil
• 1/3 cup Soy sauce
• 1/3 cup Rice wine (Shaoxing wine preferred)
• 8 pieces Garlic cloves (peeled and smashed)
• 30 grams Ginger (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons Sugar
• 20 grams Fresh basil leaves
• 2 pieces Red chilies (optional, sliced)

Directions

Step 1

Prepare all ingredients by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, peeling and slicing the ginger, smashing the garlic, and washing the basil leaves.

Step 2

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat and add the sesame oil.

Step 3

Once the oil is warm, add the smashed garlic cloves and sliced ginger. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the chicken pieces to the wok and stir-fry until they are lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 6

Lower the heat to medium-low and let the chicken braise in the sauce for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and coat the chicken.

Step 7

Add the basil leaves and sliced red chilies (if using) to the wok. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the basil is wilted.

Step 8

Remove from heat and transfer the Three Cup Chicken to a serving dish.

Step 9

Serve hot with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	842.1 grams (842.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2131

Total Fat 160.50g	206%
Saturated Fat 35.70g	179%
Polyunsaturated Fat 31.30g
Cholesterol 400mg	133%
Sodium 3433mg	149%
Total Carbohydrate 49.50g	18%
Dietary Fiber 2.90g	10%
Total Sugars 26.40g
Protein 101.30g	203%

Vitamin D 65IU	325%
Calcium 163mg	13%
Iron 7mg	40%
Potassium 1662mg	35%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 70.5%

Protein: 19.8%

Carbs: 9.7%