Dish Explainer
What Is Three-Cup Chicken?
Three-cup chicken is a deeply aromatic chicken dish where the sauce reduces into a glossy coating.
Quick answer
Three-cup chicken is a chicken dish associated with the balance of soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and basil.
| Chinese name | Pinyin | Cuisine or format | Usual heat level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 三杯鸡 | sān bēi jī | Taiwanese and Jiangxi-associated traditions | Mild to medium |
What it tastes like
It is savory, aromatic, slightly sweet, sesame-rich, gingery, and basil-fragrant.
Common variations
- Taiwanese three-cup chicken with basil
- Clay pot versions
- Three-cup tofu
- Three-cup mushroom
Dietary issues
Watch for chicken, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, garlic, and sugar. It is not suitable for alcohol-free diners unless modified.
What to order with it
Pair with rice, greens, cucumber salad, and a mild soup.