As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of fresh ginger and garlic filled the air, instantly lifting my spirits. There’s something transformative about cooking that turns an ordinary day into a memorable occasion. I had a craving for something bold yet comforting, and it was then that I decided to whip up a vibrant dish—Three Cup Chicken.

This flavorful recipe, inspired by traditional Chinese cooking, combines the rich sweetness of dark soy sauce with the aromatic notes of Thai basil and a hint of spice from dried chili peppers. It’s a dish that not only excites the palate but also warms the heart, making it the perfect centerpiece for both family meals and special gatherings.

The best part? You won’t spend hours in the kitchen! This delightful recipe is remarkably easy to prepare, allowing you to skip the fast food run and dive into a world of homemade delights. Grab a couple of ingredients, and let’s create something unforgettable!

Why is Three Cup Chicken so irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The bold combination of ginger, garlic, and Thai basil creates a delightful symphony of flavors that will dance on your palate.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights—prep it in no time and enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your family and friends with this dish that’s equally suitable for cozy dinners and entertaining guests.

Authentic Touch: Bringing a taste of traditional Chinese cooking to your home, this recipe elevates your culinary repertoire effortlessly.

If you’re craving something unique, you’ll want to try this simple yet vibrant dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Three Cup Chicken

For the Marinade

Shaoxing wine – A flavorful rice wine that adds depth to the dish; if unavailable, dry sherry can be a good substitute.
Soy sauce – Essential for umami richness; use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Dark soy sauce – Provides a richer color and taste; don’t skip it for that authentic flavor!
Chinese black vinegar – Adds a hint of tanginess; balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch, but it will be sweeter.
Dark brown sugar – Balances the savory elements and caramelizes beautifully; substitute with light brown sugar if needed.
Water – Used to adjust sauce consistency.

For the Chicken

Chicken wings – The star of the dish; feel free to use chicken thighs or drumsticks for a heartier meal.
Cornstarch – Coats the chicken for that perfect crispness; it also helps the sauce cling beautifully.

For the Flavor

Ginger – Freshly minced for a zingy kick; it brightens up all the flavors.
Garlic – Adds a fragrant depth that complements the chicken perfectly.
Scallions – Offers freshness and a mild onion flavor; slice them for garnish as well!
Dried Sichuan chili peppers – Infuses the dish with warmth; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Toasted sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma; be careful not to overpower the dish with too much.
Thai basil – Provides an aromatic freshness that’s irreplaceable; if unavailable, regular basil can be used but will alter the flavor slightly.

For Serving

Cooked white rice – The perfect vehicle for soaking up all that luscious sauce!

How to Make Three Cup Chicken

Mince the ginger and garlic.
Start by peeling the ginger, then chop it finely along with the garlic cloves. This aromatic duo is essential for a rich flavor profile.
Chop the scallions.
Slice the scallions into thin rounds. These will add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your dish, so set them aside for later.
Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, water, dark brown sugar, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil. This mixture will infuse your chicken with deep, savory goodness.
Toss the chicken wings with cornstarch.
Place the chicken wings in a separate bowl and sprinkle cornstarch over them. Give them a good toss to coat evenly. This will help achieve that delicious crispy texture.
Heat neutral oil in a large pan.
In a spacious skillet, add 1 tablespoon of canola or vegetable oil and warm it over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Fry the chicken wings.
Carefully add the wings to the pan in a single layer, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Give them a gentle flip halfway through for an even crispness.
Pour the marinade over the chicken.
Once the wings are beautifully golden, pour the marinade mixture over them. Watch as the sauce starts to bubble and coat the wings in a flavorful glaze.
Add the dried chili peppers and simmer.
Toss in the dried Sichuan chili peppers and let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Stir in the remaining sesame oil and Thai basil.
Mix in the last tablespoon of toasted sesame oil followed by the Thai basil leaves. Stir gently until the basil is wilted and fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
Serve your Three Cup Chicken over white rice.
Spoon the saucy chicken on a bed of fluffy cooked white rice, allowing the grains to soak up all that rich flavor.

Optional: Garnish with additional sliced scallions for a fresh finish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Three Cup Chicken?

Imagine a gathering around your table, savoring the enticing aroma of a warm meal that brings everyone together.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate floral notes of jasmine rice beautifully complement the savory richness of the chicken, making it an ideal foundation for balancing flavors.
Crispy Sautéed Bok Choy: This vibrant green veggie adds a satisfying crunch and slight bitterness that cuts through the richness, enhancing the meal’s overall dimension.
Peanut Noodle Salad: The creamy, nutty flavors paired with fresh vegetables will offer a refreshing contrast to the savory Three Cup Chicken while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
Garlic Green Beans: These tender green beans sautéed with garlic not only provide an excellent texture but also infuse your meal with a luscious aroma that mirrors the dish.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A simple yet refreshing salad, it brings a cool crunch that offsets the warm spices from the chicken, ensuring a delightful contrast with every bite.
Lychee Sorbet: For dessert, this light and fruity sorbet can cleanse the palate perfectly after the rich flavors of the main course, leaving everyone satisfied yet wanting more.
Chardonnay: A glass of this crisp white wine pairs wonderfully, with its acidity and fruitiness elevating the dish’s savory notes and making every bite unforgettable.

Variations & Substitutions for Three Cup Chicken

Feel free to put your own spin on this dish and discover your favorite flavors!

Vegetarian: Swap chicken wings with firm tofu, marinated, and sautéed until golden for a plant-based twist.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, ensuring a gluten-free alternative without compromising flavor.
Extra Spicy: Add more Sichuan chili peppers or a drizzle of chili oil to elevate the heat level and excite your taste buds.
Coconut Flavor: Incorporate coconut milk into the sauce for a creamy consistency that adds a tropical flair to the dish.
Herb Boost: Try adding chopped cilantro or mint alongside the Thai basil for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Fruit Infusion: Toss in slices of mango or pineapple during the last few minutes of simmering for a sweet and savory combination.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving for an added crunch and nutty aroma.
Zesty Twist: Introduce a splash of lime juice at the end to brighten the flavors—perfect for those who love a citrus zing!

Make Ahead Options

These Three Cup Chicken wings are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness with minimal fuss! You can prep the marinade by combining Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and toasted sesame oil up to 24 hours in advance—just store it refrigerated in an airtight container. Additionally, the chicken wings can be coated with cornstarch and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the oil and fry the wings until crispy, then pour over the prepared marinade and simmer. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, just as flavorful as if made from scratch!

Tips for the Best Three Cup Chicken

Prep Ingredients First: Prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process and avoid any last-minute rush.

Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken wings in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will lead to steaming instead of crisping.

Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, consider reducing the number of dried Sichuan chili peppers or removing the seeds before using.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic make a significant impact on the overall flavor, enhancing the authenticity of your Three Cup Chicken.

Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the wings while frying; aim for a golden brown color without burning to maintain that desired crispiness.

How to Store and Freeze Three Cup Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Three Cup Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its flavors and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove excess air to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.

Room Temperature: Do not leave Three Cup Chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and quality.

Three Cup Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of ginger should I use?
You want to choose fresh ginger that feels firm and has smooth skin, avoiding any that have dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate age. The flavor of fresh ginger is vibrant, which is essential for enhancing the overall dish.

How should I store leftover Three Cup Chicken?
Absolutely! Store your Three Cup Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop it in the skillet over medium heat, and it will taste just as delicious!

Can I freeze Three Cup Chicken for later use?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do this effectively, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you remove any excess air. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find your sauce has thickened too much upon reheating, simply add a splash of water or chicken broth—it’ll help loosen it up while keeping the dish flavorful. Make sure to stir it well to incorporate the liquid evenly.

Is there a way to adjust the spice level?
Of course! If you prefer a milder Three Cup Chicken, you can reduce the number of dried Sichuan chili peppers or simply remove the seeds before adding them to the dish. This way, you can still enjoy the unique flavors without overwhelming heat!

Is Three Cup Chicken safe for pets?
While the main ingredients are not toxic to pets, it’s wise to avoid giving your furry friend foods that contain high levels of sodium or spices (like garlic) found in this recipe. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.