When the sun begins to dip below the horizon, bathing my kitchen in a warm glow, I crave a dish that not only nourishes but transports me to a place of comfort. That’s when I reach for my trusty recipe for Five Spice Chicken. The moment I combine rich soy sauce, aromatic five spice powder, and a hint of sweet shaoxing wine, the kitchen is filled with a symphony of scents that promise something special.
This dish is a personal favorite, not just for its incredible flavor but for its uncanny ability to impress friends and family without the fuss. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering that calls for a touch of elegance, these marinated chicken thighs deliver every time. And the best part? You’ll find that the recipe is as straightforward as it is delectable. With a little marinating time, the magic of the oven does the rest, transforming basic chicken into a golden, crispy masterpiece. Let’s dive into this culinary journey that will redefine your weeknight meals!
Why will you love this Five Spice Chicken?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, five spice powder, and shaoxing wine creates a flavor sensation that dances on your taste buds.
Easy Preparation: With just a little marinating time, you can set the stage for a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for both intimate dinners and festive gatherings, this dish is sure to wow your guests with its aromatic allure.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with steamed rice and veggies for a complete meal, or use leftovers in wraps and salads, proving it’s delicious in every form.
Simplicity: This recipe highlights the beauty of minimal ingredients, allowing the rich flavors to shine through with ease! Interested in more delightful chicken recipes? Check out our chicken dinner ideas for extra inspiration.
Five Spice Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor-packed masterpiece with these simple ingredients!
For the Marinade
- Soy Sauce – Adds a deep, umami flavor to your Five Spice Chicken.
- Salt – Enhances and balances the flavors while ensuring juiciness.
- Five Spice Powder – Infuses the chicken with a fragrant blend of spices for a unique twist.
- Red Onion (minced) – Adds a slight sweetness and depth of flavor to the marinade.
- Garlic (minced) – Brings a touch of warmth and aromatic essence that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Oil – Helps the marinade stick to the chicken and aids in crisping the skin.
- Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Cooking Sherry) – Adds a sophisticated touch; the wine’s sweetness enriches the overall taste.
- Sesame Oil – Imparts a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your dish
For the Chicken
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs (or Chicken Leg Quarters) – The preferred cut for juicy, flavorful results; the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Embrace the deliciousness of Five Spice Chicken, and let its bold flavors transform your dinner routine!
How to Make Five Spice Chicken
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Combine the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix together soy sauce, salt, five spice powder, minced red onion, garlic, oil, shaoxing wine, and sesame oil until well blended. Set aside to let the flavors mingle.
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Pat dry the chicken thighs before marinating. This helps the marinade stick better and ensures crispy skin later. Carefully add the chicken to the marinade, making sure to work it under the skin for maximum flavor. Marinate overnight or at least for 20 minutes.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with non-stick foil or parchment paper to keep cleanup easy and prevent sticking.
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Arrange the chicken on the prepared pan, skin side up, and roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes. Look for a golden brown skin as it cooks; this indicates delicious crispiness is on the way!
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Broil if needed. If the chicken hasn’t developed a crispy finish after roasting, switch to the broiler for a couple of minutes. Just keep an eye on it; broiler times can vary, and you don’t want it to burn!
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Check doneness by inserting a fork into the side of the chicken; the juices should run clear and golden brown. Serve your fabulous Five Spice Chicken with steamed rice and a colorful vegetable side for a complete meal.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Five Spice Chicken thighs are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to meal prep like a pro! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor while saving you precious time when dinner rushes in. Simply combine all marinade ingredients and coat the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you need to prep even further ahead, fully cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days while maintaining its deliciousness. When ready to serve, just preheat your oven, roast for 35-40 minutes, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful chicken that feels like a gourmet meal with minimal effort.
Expert Tips for Five Spice Chicken
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Marinating Time Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption; even a quick 20 minutes can elevate the taste, but longer is better.
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Dry Chicken for Crispiness: Always pat the chicken dry before marinating. This step helps the skin become wonderfully crispy during roasting.
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Watch the Broiler: If using the broiler for crisping, stay close! This method cooks quickly, and you want to avoid any burnt surprises.
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Juiciness Check: Use a fork to check for doneness; the juices should run clear. Overcooking can dry out the chicken, so keep an eye on the time!
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Perfect Pairings: Serve your Five Spice Chicken with steamed rice and seasonal vegetables to keep your meal balanced and refreshing.
What to Serve with Five Spice Chicken?
Transform your marinated roast chicken into a delightful feast with these thoughtful pairings that complement its rich flavors.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its delicate, fluffy texture absorbs the savory sauce, balancing the bold flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a fresh crunch that lifts the dish.
- Savory Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This vibrant vegetable adds depth and a burst of color to your plate, making it visually appealing.
- Coconut Thai Soup: A comforting, fragrant soup offers warmth and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a cool contrast that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken. The crunch of the cucumber brightens every bite!
- Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of these wines complements the aromatic notes of the chicken while enhancing its flavors further.
- Espresso Brownies: For dessert, fudgy espresso brownies provide a rich contrast to the meal, wrapping up the evening on a sweet note that everyone will love.
- Fresh Mint Tea: This soothing beverage cools the palate and offers a refreshing finish after a satisfying dinner, leaving guests feeling delighted!
Five Spice Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while making this scrumptious dish—there are so many ways to tweak it!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free option that still has fabulous flavor.
- Citrus Zing: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the marinade for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens up every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the marinade for an aromatic flavor boost that’s fresh and vibrant.
- Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or some sriracha to the marinade. It creates a delightful balance with the sweet and savory notes.
- Honey Glaze: Swap in honey or maple syrup instead of shaoxing wine for a subtle sweetness that adds depth to the dish and enhances the caramelization.
- BBQ Style: Use your favorite BBQ sauce mixed with the marinade for a fun, smoky twist that pairs perfectly with the chicken’s natural richness.
- Buttermilk Marinade: Soak the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before marinating; it will tenderize the meat and create a rich, buttery flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Try this marinade with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a delicious, plant-based alternative that packs a punch in flavor.
Whichever variation you choose, each bite will be bursting with excitement!
How to Store and Freeze Five Spice Chicken
Fridge: Store cooked Five Spice Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain its flavor and moisture while keeping the skin crispy.
Freezer: Freeze any leftovers in resealable freezer bags for up to 3 months. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to regain crispiness.
Marinade Jar: For extra convenience, you can store unused marinade in the fridge for up to 5 days, perfect for future chicken dishes!
Marinated Roast Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken thighs, go for cuts that have firm, plump flesh with no dark spots or signs of discoloration. The skin should be a healthy shade of pale yellow to golden. Fresh chicken should have a clean smell; if it has an off-odor, it’s best to pass.
How can I store leftover Five Spice Chicken?
Very easy! Store cooked Five Spice Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it crispy, it’s best to avoid covering it tightly. You can also place it in an open container for storage, or loosely cover it with foil.
Can I freeze Five Spice Chicken?
Absolutely! For freezing, I recommend placing the chicken in resealable freezer bags or an airtight container, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to regain that crispy texture.
Why is my chicken not crisping up in the oven?
This happens sometimes! To encourage crispiness, ensure you’re patting the chicken dry before marinating. If it still hasn’t crisped after the roasting time, switch on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just remember to keep a close watch—burning can happen quickly under the broiler!
Is Five Spice Chicken suitable for special diets?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. However, if you’re serving someone with food allergies, be mindful of gluten in the soy sauce; opt for a gluten-free version if needed. For those watching sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce can be used as an alternative. It’s also a rich source of protein, making it great for those looking to add more lean protein to their diets.
Can I use this recipe for chicken breast instead of thighs?
Certainly! While chicken thighs offer more moisture and flavor, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as a substitute. Just remember they usually require less cooking time, around 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid drying out to ensure juicy results!
Savory Five Spice Chicken Thighs for Dinner Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix until well blended and set aside.
- Pat dry the chicken thighs before marinating, ensuring the marinade adheres better.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with non-stick foil.
- Arrange the chicken on the pan, skin side up, and roast for 35-40 minutes.
- Broil if needed for crispy finish, checking closely to avoid burning.
- Check doneness and serve with steamed rice and vegetables.