Five Spice Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings the bold, aromatic essence of Chinese five-spice powder to a simple yet delicious chicken recipe. The unique blend of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds infuses the chicken with an irresistible depth of flavor, balancing sweet, savory, and spicy notes. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy Asian-inspired cuisine and is versatile enough to be served with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-fried, Five Spice Chicken will quickly become a family favorite for its fragrant, slightly smoky, and tender qualities.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place the chicken breasts in the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Pan-frying: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side salad.
Enjoy the fragrant and savory delight of Five Spice Chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
