19 Best Chinese Chicken Recipes

Chinese Chicken Recipes offer a perfect balance of flavors, from sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, making them a favorite among food lovers worldwide. With a deep-rooted culinary history, Chinese cuisine incorporates diverse cooking techniques such as stir-frying, steaming, braising, and deep-frying, resulting in a wide variety of delicious chicken dishes.

From takeout favorites like General Tso’s Chicken and Orange Chicken to authentic classics like Kung Pao Chicken and Soy Sauce Chicken, these recipes bring restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick stir-fry, a comforting braised dish, or a healthier steamed option, these Chinese chicken recipes are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Chinese Chicken Recipes

1. Kung Pao Chicken

Description

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish known for its bold flavors, combining tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a spicy, tangy sauce. This dish features the signature numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns and the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. It’s a restaurant favorite that can be easily recreated at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 dried red chilies (cut into pieces)
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-inch ginger (minced)
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

2. General Tso’s Chicken

Description

General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its crispy fried chicken coated in a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. With a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, this dish is a takeout favorite that can be easily made at home. The crispy texture combined with the flavorful sauce makes it an irresistible meal when served with rice or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 2 tablespoons water
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg

This crispy and flavorful dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

3. Sesame Chicken

Description

Sesame Chicken is a crispy, golden-fried chicken dish coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sesame sauce. This popular Chinese takeout favorite is known for its crunchy texture, sticky glaze, and nutty sesame flavor. With a perfect balance of sweetness and umami, it’s a delicious dish that pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 2 tablespoons water
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 cup water

For Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 710mg

This crispy and flavorful Sesame Chicken is best served hot with rice and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.

4. Szechuan Chicken

Description

Szechuan Chicken is a bold and spicy dish from China’s Sichuan province, known for its mouth-numbing heat and rich umami flavors. This dish features tender chicken stir-fried with dried red chilies, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and ginger, creating a fiery and aromatic meal. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors makes it a favorite among lovers of spicy food.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

For Stir-Frying:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 6-8 dried red chilies (cut into halves)
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (crushed)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-inch ginger (grated)
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg

This spicy and flavorful Szechuan Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried noodles for a satisfying meal.

5. Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Description

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken is a savory and mildly spicy stir-fry featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a rich black pepper sauce. This dish is known for its bold, peppery kick, complemented by garlic, onions, and bell peppers. It’s a quick and flavorful meal that pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

For Stir-Frying:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-inch ginger (grated)
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red and green)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg

This bold and flavorful Black Pepper Chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

6. Soy Sauce Chicken

Description

Soy Sauce Chicken is a classic Cantonese dish featuring tender, juicy chicken braised in a rich, aromatic soy sauce-based marinade. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and star anise gives this dish its deep umami flavor and beautiful caramelized color. Traditionally served with steamed rice or noodles, this dish is a staple in Chinese home cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (or 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs)
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup dark soy sauce
• 1/4 cup light soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 4 slices ginger
• 3 cloves garlic (smashed)
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 green onions (tied in a knot)

For Garnish:

• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 900mg

This aromatic and flavorful Soy Sauce Chicken is best enjoyed with steamed jasmine rice and a side of stir-fried greens for a comforting and satisfying meal.

7. Garlic Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry

Description

Garlic Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish packed with aromatic ginger, garlic, and tender chicken pieces. This dish is lightly coated in a savory sauce and stir-fried with colorful vegetables for a well-balanced meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-inch ginger (grated)
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red and green)
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets
• 2 green onions (chopped)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped cilantro

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg

This light and healthy Garlic Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal packed with fresh vegetables and bold flavors.

8. Chinese Lemon Chicken

Description

Chinese Lemon Chicken is a crispy, golden-fried chicken dish coated in a sweet, tangy, and citrusy lemon sauce. This popular takeout-style dish combines the crunch of battered chicken with a refreshing, zesty glaze, making it a delicious meal when paired with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 2 tablespoons water
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For Garnish:

• Sliced lemon wedges
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg

This bright and flavorful Chinese Lemon Chicken is perfect for those who love a balance of crispy texture and tangy sweetness in their meals.

9. Steamed Chicken with Ginger and Scallions

Description

Steamed Chicken with Ginger and Scallions is a light and aromatic dish that highlights the natural flavor of chicken. The chicken is gently steamed with fresh ginger, garlic, and scallions, allowing the ingredients to infuse the meat with a delicate fragrance and a subtle, savory taste. This dish is a healthy, flavorful option often served with a simple soy sauce dressing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs
• 1-inch piece of ginger (sliced thinly)
• 4-5 stalks of scallions (cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 2 cloves garlic (smashed)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Soy Sauce Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

For Garnish:

• Chopped scallions
• Toasted sesame seeds

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 550mg

Steamed Chicken with Ginger and Scallions is a healthy, flavorful dish perfect for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s ideal when paired with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

10. Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Description

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a classic, nutritious dish that combines tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. The chicken is stir-fried with fresh vegetables and coated in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, making it a quick and easy meal. This dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, full of flavor and packed with protein and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-inch ginger (grated)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
• 1/2 onion (sliced)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg

This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a perfect balance of protein and vegetables, ideal for a satisfying and healthy meal. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete dish.

FAQ

What makes Chinese chicken recipes different from other chicken dishes?

Chinese chicken recipes often feature a unique balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, using ingredients like soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, garlic, and various spices. The cooking methods, such as stir-frying, steaming, and braising, also add to the distinct textures and flavors in Chinese chicken dishes.

Can I make Chinese chicken recipes healthier?

Yes, you can make Chinese chicken recipes healthier by using lean cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of oil used in cooking, and opting for lower-sodium soy sauce or using more vegetables to add fiber and nutrients to the dish.

Do I need any special ingredients for these recipes?

Many Chinese chicken recipes use specialty ingredients like sesame oil, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice vinegar. While these ingredients might not be commonly found in a standard kitchen, they are essential for creating authentic flavors and can be found at most grocery stores or Asian markets.

How can I adjust the spice level in Chinese chicken recipes?

You can easily adjust the spice level by controlling the amount of chili peppers, Szechuan peppercorns, or hot sauces used in the recipe. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the spicy ingredients, or if you enjoy heat, feel free to increase the spice components to suit your taste.