Three Cup Chicken (So Good You’ll Devour Even the Garlic)

Cooking StepsHow to cook Three Cup Chicken (So Good You’ll Devour Even the Garlic) step by step

Cooking Process

1. 
   Step 1

   Cut 2 chicken drumsticks into pieces and wash clean.

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2. 
   Step 2

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3. 
   Step 3

   Place in cold water, bring to a boil over high heat.

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4. 
   Step 4

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5. 
   Step 5

   After boiling, blanch for 2-3 minutes, remove and rinse with warm water. Set aside.

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6. 
   Step 6

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7. 
   Step 7

   Group photo of all ingredients (I used this porcelain spoon to measure the sauce).

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8. 
   Step 8

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9. 
   Step 9

   Over medium or medium-low heat, add a splash of black sesame oil (about 3 tablespoons — ⚠️ black sesame oil has a low smoke point, high heat will burn it and make it bitter). Add ginger slices and stir-fry until golden and fragrant (about 3 minutes).

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10. 
    Step 10

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11. 
    Step 11

    Add garlic cloves, scallion segments, and dried chilies. Stir for about 10 seconds (my heat was a bit high here — make sure to use medium-low!).

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12. Step 12

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13. Step 13

    Add the chicken pieces and toss to combine. Pour in the mixed sauce and stir well. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer until the sauce reduces — about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when the sauce is mostly reduced, it’s done (remember to flip the chicken pieces occasionally).

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14. Step 14

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15. Step 15

    Add the Thai basil leaves (basil is the soul of three cup chicken).

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16. Step 16

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17. Step 17

    Cover and let steam for 1-2 minutes (if there’s still plenty of sauce, keep on low heat; if not much left, turn off the heat and just let it steam).

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18. Step 18

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19. Step 19

    Before serving, drizzle in ½ tablespoon of black sesame oil and glutinous rice wine. Toss well and plate up!

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20. Step 20

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21. Step 21

    Plate cleaned out — even the garlic is delicious 😋

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22. Step 22

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