Chinese Roast Chicken with Oyster Sauce Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Classic Roast Chicken
If you're looking for a new way to prepare chicken, a Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce recipe is a great option. This dish is packed with flavour and is easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The oyster sauce adds a rich umami flavour to the chicken, while the roasting process ensures that the skin is crispy and the meat is juicy.
The essence of Chinese roast chicken is in the marinade. The oyster sauce is the star of the marinade, providing a savoury flavour that complements the chicken perfectly. Other ingredients in the marinade include soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder, which all work together to create a complex and delicious flavour profile. To take this dish to the next level, you can also consider adding seafood to the marinade, such as shrimp or scallops, to give it an extra layer of flavour.
To prepare this dish, start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, or overnight if possible. Then, roast the chicken in the oven until it is cooked through and the skin is crispy. Serve with your favourite sides, such as steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Key Takeaways
- Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce is a flavourful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion.
- The marinade is the key to the dish's delicious flavour, with oyster sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder providing a complex and savoury flavour profile.
- Seafood can be added to the marinade to give the dish an extra layer of flavour, such as shrimp or scallops.
The Essence of Chinese Roast Chicken
When it comes to Chinese cuisine, roast chicken with oyster sauce is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of succulent chicken and savoury oyster sauce creates a flavourful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. In this section, we will explore the key elements that make this dish so special.
Choosing the Right Chicken
The first step to making the perfect Chinese roast chicken is choosing the right chicken. A whole chicken is the best choice for this dish, as it provides the perfect balance of meat and bones. You can use either a fresh or frozen chicken, but make sure it is of good quality and free from any defects.
Understanding Oyster Sauce
Oyster sauce is a key ingredient in Chinese cooking and is used to add a rich, savoury flavour to many dishes. Made from oysters, soy sauce, and other seasonings, it has a deep umami flavour that complements the chicken perfectly. When buying oyster sauce, make sure to choose a good quality brand that is free from additives and preservatives.
If you are looking to add an extra layer of flavour to your Chinese roast chicken, you can also consider adding seafood to the dish. Shrimp or scallops are great options that pair well with the oyster sauce and chicken. Simply add them to the marinade and roast them alongside the chicken for a delicious seafood twist.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a delicious Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce that is sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give it a try and discover the magic of this classic dish for yourself?
Preparation of Ingredients
Before you start cooking your Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce, it is important to prepare your ingredients. This will make the cooking process easier and more efficient. Here are the steps you should follow:
Marinating the Chicken
The first step is to marinate your chicken. This will help to infuse it with flavour and keep it moist during cooking. To do this, mix together 4 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon of Chinese five-spice powder in a bowl.
Place your chicken in a large bowl, and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the chicken is coated well with the marinade. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight if possible. If you want to add seafood to your recipe, you can marinate your chicken with prawns or shrimps.
Preparing the Glaze
Next, you need to prepare the glaze for your chicken. In a separate bowl, mix together ¼ cup of Shaoxing wine, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 3 tablespoons of oyster sauce.
Vegetable Accompaniments
Finally, prepare your vegetable accompaniments. You can use any vegetables you like, but some popular options include bok choy, carrots, and broccoli. Cut your vegetables into bite-sized pieces, and set them aside.
By following these steps, you will be well on your way to cooking a delicious Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce.
Cooking Method
Roasting Techniques
To make Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce, you will need an oven, a roasting pan, and high heat. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the chicken in the roasting pan. Roast the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it is fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to ensure it is fully cooked.
To achieve a golden brown and crispy skin, you can increase the heat to 220°C (425°F) for the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will help to create a beautiful crust on the chicken. Remember to baste the chicken with the oyster sauce mixture every 10 minutes to keep it moist and flavourful.
Achieving the Perfect Glaze
To achieve the perfect glaze, you need to brush the chicken with the oyster sauce mixture before and during roasting. This will help to infuse the chicken with the umami flavour of the oyster sauce. You can also add seafood to the recipe to enhance the flavour even further. For example, you can add prawns or scallops to the roasting pan with the chicken. This will create a delicious seafood and chicken flavour combination.
When using seafood, it is important to cook it properly to avoid foodborne illness. Make sure to cook the seafood until it is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). You can also marinate the seafood in the oyster sauce mixture before roasting to enhance the flavour.
Overall, roasting is a great way to cook chicken with oyster sauce. It creates a delicious flavour and a beautiful golden brown crust. By following these roasting techniques and glazing tips, you can create a mouth-watering Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Serving and Presentation
Carving the Chicken
Once your Chinese Roast Chicken with Oyster Sauce is cooked, it's time to carve it up and get ready to serve. Begin by removing the chicken from the oven and allowing it to rest for around 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist and tender.
To carve the chicken, use a sharp knife to cut through the skin between the thigh and the breast. Pull the leg away from the body and cut through the joint to remove it. Repeat on the other side. Next, cut through the skin between the wing and the breast and remove the wing. Finally, cut down the breastbone and remove the breast meat in one piece. Slice the breast meat into thin slices and arrange on a platter.
Plating and Garnishes
When it comes to plating your Chinese Roast Chicken with Oyster Sauce, there are a few different options. You could simply arrange the carved chicken on a platter and serve it family-style, allowing your guests to help themselves. Alternatively, you could plate each serving individually, with a portion of chicken, steamed rice, and vegetables.
To add some extra flavour and colour to your dish, consider garnishing with some sliced scallions or other fresh herbs. You could also serve with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or bok choy, to balance out the richness of the chicken and oyster sauce.
If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try incorporating some seafood into your recipe. For example, you could add some chopped prawns or scallops to the oyster sauce marinade, or serve the chicken with a side of stir-fried squid or shrimp. Just be sure to use fresh, high-quality seafood and adjust your cooking times accordingly to ensure it's cooked through.
Nutritional Information
If you're looking for a delicious and healthy meal, Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce recipe is a great option. Here is the nutritional information for this dish:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Carbohydrate | 3 g |
| Protein | 19 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 111 mg |
| Sodium | 526 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
As you can see, this dish is high in protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue. It is also relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those who are watching their carb intake. The oyster sauce used in this recipe is a good source of sodium, which can help regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in the body.
If you're looking to add even more flavour and nutrition to this dish, you could consider adding some seafood, such as shrimp or scallops. These can be added to the marinade or cooked separately and added to the dish before serving. Seafood is a good source of protein and healthy fats, as well as vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. Just make sure to choose sustainable seafood options to help protect the environment and ensure the longevity of our oceans.
Overall, Chinese roast chicken with oyster sauce recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to marinate chicken for a roast using oyster sauce?
To marinate chicken for a roast using oyster sauce, mix the oyster sauce with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and other seasonings of your choice. Then, coat the chicken in the marinade and let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight for best results. This will allow the chicken to absorb the flavours and become more tender.
How can I make my oyster sauce chicken thighs extra tender and juicy?
One way to make your oyster sauce chicken thighs extra tender and juicy is to marinate them in the mixture of oyster sauce, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar for at least an hour. You can also try adding baking soda to the marinade, which will help break down the proteins in the chicken and make it more tender. Another tip is to cook the chicken on low heat for a longer time to ensure it is cooked through and remains juicy.
Could you suggest a simple Chinese chicken recipe featuring oyster sauce?
One simple Chinese chicken recipe featuring oyster sauce is stir-fried chicken with oyster sauce and vegetables. To make this dish, stir-fry chicken breast or thigh pieces with your favourite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Then, add a mixture of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar to the pan and stir-fry until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables. Serve with steamed rice.
What are some creative twists on the classic Lee Kum Kee Oyster Sauce Chicken?
To add a creative twist to the classic Lee Kum Kee oyster sauce chicken, you can try adding seafood such as prawns or scallops to the dish. Another idea is to substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also try adding different spices such as Sichuan peppercorns or cumin to the marinade for a unique flavour.
How do I prepare a barbecue chicken with an oyster sauce dressing?
To prepare a barbecue chicken with an oyster sauce dressing, marinate chicken in a mixture of oyster sauce, soy sauce, honey, and garlic for at least an hour. Then, grill the chicken until it is cooked through and brush it with the oyster sauce dressing while it's still hot. Serve with grilled vegetables and rice.
What are some tasty sides to serve with ginger oyster sauce chicken?
Some tasty sides to serve with ginger oyster sauce chicken include steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and fried rice. You can also try making a refreshing cucumber salad with a dressing of rice vinegar, sesame oil, and soy sauce. For a heartier meal, serve the chicken with noodles or fried rice.