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soy-sauce-chicken

Soy Sauce Chicken Recipe: How to Make a Flavorful Cantonese Classic

This Soy Sauce Chicken Recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken braised in a rich, glossy soy sauce broth infused with aromatic spices. A classic Cantonese dish, it’s easy to make, requires only one pot, and pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Braising Liquid

  • 1 whole chicken (or bone-in thighs/drumsticks)
  • ½ cup light soy sauce (adds saltiness and umami)
  • ¼ cup dark soy sauce (creates deep color and richness)
  • ½ cup rock sugar or brown sugar (balances saltiness)
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth (adds depth of flavor)

Aromatics & Spices

  • 5 slices fresh ginger (for warmth and fragrance)
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2 scallions, cut into large sections
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper

Finishing Touches

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for extra fragrance)
  • Chopped scallions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken : Rinse and pat dry the whole chicken or chicken pieces. If using a whole chicken, tie the legs together for even cooking.
  2. Create the Braising Sauce : In a large pot, combine light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, water, and aromatics. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
  3. Cook the Chicken : Carefully place the chicken into the pot, breast-side down. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, flipping and basting the chicken regularly.
  4. Rest & Slice : Remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Strain the sauce and drizzle it over the chicken before serving.
  5. Garnish & Serve : Brush the chicken with sesame oil for extra shine. Sprinkle with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.
  • Author: Norah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Braising
  • Cuisine: Cantonese, Chinese

Keywords: Soy sauce chicken, Cantonese soy sauce chicken, Chinese braised chicken, homemade soy sauce chicken, easy soy sauce chicken recipe, authentic soy sauce chicken, glazed soy sauce chicken