Skip to main content

Drunken Chicken

4.0

(6)

In this distinctive dish from Yè Shanghai, the chicken is cooked in simmering water, then brined in salt water and marinated briefly in sweetened rice wine.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 8 first-course servings

Ingredients

1 3 1/2-pound whole chicken
1 5-inch-long piece fresh ginger, sliced
7 green onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon plus 5 tablespoons salt
4 cups water
1 750-ml bottle of Chinese rice wine* or dry Sherry
3/4 cup sugar

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Bring large pot of water to boil. Add chicken, 6 ginger slices, 4 sliced green onions, and 1 teaspoon salt. Reduce heat; simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 45 minutes. Drain chicken; place in bowl of ice water to cool. Mix 4 cups water, 2 sliced green onions, 5 tablespoons salt, and remaining ginger slices in large bowl until salt dissolves. Drain chicken; add to saltwater brine. Let stand 30 minutes at room temperature.

    Step 2

    Meanwhile, mix rice wine and sugar in medium bowl. Stir to dissolve sugar. Season marinade to taste with salt. Drain chicken. Cut into 8 pieces. Transfer chicken to shallow glass baking dish. Pour marinade over. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour. Let stand 15 minutes at room temperature. Transfer chicken to plates; discard marinade. Sprinkle with remaining green onions.

  2. Step 3

    *Available at Asian markets.

Read More
Like lemony risotto and tandoori-style cauliflower.
A warmly spiced Ashkenazi charoset, perfect for your Passover seder—or spooned over yogurt the next morning.
Biscuits and gravy, but make it spring.
This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.
Like airy lemon chiffon cake and a Cadbury egg–inspired tart.