When the weekend rolls around, I often find myself craving something that feels a bit special but doesn’t require a culinary degree. That’s where my love for Chinese Five Spice Chicken comes into play. The moment you take your first bite, the fragrant medley of spices dances on your palate, taking you on a journey to faraway lands.
I discovered this recipe on a rainy afternoon while reorganizing my spice cabinet, and it quickly became a family favorite. With a beautiful crunch on the outside and juicy tenderness on the inside, it’s the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue.
Plus, the best part? You can prep it ahead and let it rest in the fridge overnight, making your weeknight dinner effortless yet impressive. So, gather around the table and enjoy a dish that’s packed with flavor, warmth, and nostalgia. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why is Chinese Five Spice Chicken a Must-Try?
Unique flavor fusion: The exquisite blend of five spice powder brings depth to every bite, making this dish a celebration of flavor.
Effortless preparation: With just 10 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Crowd-pleaser: It’s sure to impress family and friends alike, turning any meal into a stunning feast.
Versatile dining: Serve it up with rice, stir-fried veggies, or in a sandwich for delightful leftovers.
Prep ahead: Letting it rest overnight enhances the taste, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
You’ll be thrilled with this recipe and might also enjoy my simple side dish suggestions to elevate your meal!
Chinese Five Spice Chicken Ingredients
• Ready to create a flavorful feast?
For the Chicken
• 1 chicken – use a bird weighing about 1.8kg/4 lbs for the perfect balance of meat and crispiness.
• 2 teaspoons salt – enhances the flavor and helps keep the chicken moist during cooking.
For the Spice Rub
• ¾ teaspoon five spice powder – this unique blend offers aromatic warmth and complexity to the chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – adds a lovely hint of garlic flavor without the fuss of fresh cloves.
• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper – imparts a gentle heat that complements the spices beautifully.
For the Marinade
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce – adds a rich color and depth of flavor to the skin.
• 1 teaspoon Shaoxing rice wine (optional) – a splash of this enhances the umami flavor; feel free to leave it out if not on hand.
For the Glaze
• 1 tablespoon honey – offers a touch of sweetness that caramelizes perfectly on the skin.
• ½ teaspoon dark soy sauce – for brushing on just before the final roast to get that glossy finish.
This Chinese Five Spice Chicken will surely take your dinner from mundane to marvelous!
How to Make Chinese Five Spice Chicken
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Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken over a large tray with the breasts down and the legs facing you. Cut along both sides of the backbone with kitchen scissors or shears to prepare for spatchcocking.
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Flatten the chicken: Carefully flip the chicken so the breasts are facing up. Press firmly on the middle until it’s completely flattened for even cooking.
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Pat dry: Use kitchen paper to pat dry the whole chicken, removing any moisture. This step is crucial for getting that delightful crispy skin.
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Mix and rub spices: In a bowl, combine salt, five spice powder, garlic powder, and white pepper. Rub half of this mixture inside the cavity of the chicken, enhancing flavor.
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Flavor the skin: Flip the chicken again. Mix dark soy sauce and Shaoxing rice wine (if using), then rub it over the skin side. Massage the remaining dry spice mix over the skin for even coverage.
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Refrigerate: Leave the seasoned chicken to rest uncovered in the fridge overnight (12-24 hours) so the flavors can deepen and penetrate the meat.
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Bring to room temperature: One hour before cooking, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it come back to room temperature, which aids in even cooking.
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Preheat the oven: Preheat a fan-assisted oven to 390°F/200°C (or 425°F/220°C for a conventional oven) while you prepare for roasting.
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Set up for roasting: Use a roasting tray with a wire rack. Fill the tray with water (lower than the rack) and place the chicken on the rack, skin facing up to ensure crispiness.
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Initial bake: Cook the chicken for 15 minutes to start the browning process, creating that delicious outer layer.
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Lower the temperature: Turn the oven down to 320°F/160°C (or 350°F/180°C for a conventional oven) and continue cooking for 20 more minutes.
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Check water level: Monitor the water level in the tray, topping it up if necessary to prevent burning. Adjust cooking time by 5 minutes if the chicken size varies.
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Add glaze: Take the chicken out of the oven. Mix honey and dark soy sauce and brush a thin layer over the skin. Return it to the oven for another 5 minutes for a sweet finish.
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Final roast: Turn the heat back up to 390°F/200°C (or 425°F/220°C for a conventional oven), brush with glaze again, and roast for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring it’s beautifully crisp.
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Rest and serve: Check for doneness, then let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving into small pieces, ready to delight your family at the table.
Optional: Pair it with steamed rice or fresh greens for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chinese Five Spice Chicken
- Choose the Right Chicken: Aim for a chicken around 1.8kg/4 lbs for even cooking and a perfect balance of meat and skin.
- Prioritize Drying: Pat the chicken dry thoroughly before seasoning; this ensures crispy skin without steaming.
- Flavor Infusion: Letting the chicken rest in the fridge overnight amplifies the flavors of the five spice powder and marinade for a deliciously aromatic result.
- Water Level Awareness: Keep an eye on the water in the roasting tray; low water can lead to burnt drippings, while sufficient moisture ensures a juicy roast.
- Rest Before Carving: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking for at least 10 minutes; this helps keep the juices locked in for a more flavorful bite.
Enjoy making your Chinese Five Spice Chicken and relish the delightful flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Five Spice Chicken preparations are perfect to ease your weeknight cooking! You can season the chicken and let it marinate in the fridge for up to 24 hours, allowing the spices to meld into the meat for a burst of flavor. Just be sure to cover it loosely to maintain quality and prevent drying out. For ultimate convenience, you can even prep the spice mix a few days in advance; simply combine and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, allow the chicken to come to room temperature before roasting, and follow the final cooking steps. This way, you’ll have a gorgeous meal on the table with minimal effort.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Five Spice Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Chinese Five Spice Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while preventing moisture loss.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method preserves the chicken for up to 3 months without freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through, to retain its crispy skin and tender meat.
Defrosting: For best results, transfer the frozen chicken to the fridge overnight to defrost. Avoid microwave defrosting, as it may affect the texture.
What to Serve with Chinese Five Spice Chicken?
When hosting a family dinner, complementing your protein with the right sides can elevate the entire meal experience.
- Savory Fried Rice: This fragrant rice, infused with vegetables and soy sauce, perfectly balances the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant green color not only adds freshness but also gives a satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken.
- Garlic Noodles: A deliciously buttery and garlicky noodle dish that provides a comforting texture perfect for soaking up the chicken’s flavorful juices.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden, crunchy bites bring an inviting crunch to your table, enhancing the Asian dining experience with delightful flavors.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices of the chicken, offering a cool, crisp bite to balance the meal.
- Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Both drinks can enhance the flavors of the chicken, with sake adding a smooth touch and green tea refreshing the palate.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Complete your meal with this creamy dessert; the sweetness of the mango pairs excellently with the savory notes of the chicken.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: The tropical fruit adds a sweet twist to your rice that wonderfully complements the spices of the chicken, making it a star of the meal.
- Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: A small bowl of this sauce makes for a perfect dipping companion, adding a sweet and spicy kick to every bite of chicken.
- Lemon Sorbet: A light and zesty dessert to cleanse the palate after the rich flavors in your meal, leaving a refreshing finish.
Chinese Five Spice Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a fiery flavor enhancement. The heat complements the sweetness perfectly!
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Herbal Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions before roasting for an aromatic freshness that brightens each bite.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into the marinade for a zesty pop. This twist brings a refreshing contrast to the savoriness of the spices.
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Soy-Free Option: Replace dark soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free and soy-free alternative that maintains a delightful Asian flavor.
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Sweet & Savory: Try adding 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the honey glaze for an ultra-rich caramel finish that dazzles with each bite. Your family will love the added sweetness!
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Miso Boost: Introduce 1 tablespoon of miso paste into the marinade for extra umami and depth. This can take your chicken flavor to a whole new level!
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Fruit Medley: Serve with a side of roasted pineapple or peach slices for a delightful fruity contrast. The sweetness melds beautifully with the savory chicken!
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Crispy Skin Twist: Instead of using a wire rack, place the chicken directly in the roasting tray for even more crispy goodness all around. A crispier chicken equals happier diners!
Customization is the key to making any recipe truly yours—so let your culinary imagination soar!
Chinese Five Spice Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing a chicken, I recommend looking for one around 1.8kg/4 lbs. You want a fresh, whole bird with a firm, plump body, and a nice, even color. Avoid any chicken with dark spots or a strong odor. Organic or free-range chickens often provide better flavor and texture, making your Chinese Five Spice Chicken even more delightful!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After enjoying your delicious meal, make sure to store any leftover Chinese Five Spice Chicken in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If you’re packing it for later, ensure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which could make the skin lose its crispness.
Can I freeze the chicken if I have leftovers?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option. To do this, wrap the Chinese Five Spice Chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to keep out air. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember: proper wrapping is key to avoid freezer burn and maintain flavor!
How do I best reheat frozen chicken?
For the best results, it’s best to start by transferring the frozen chicken to the fridge to defrost overnight. When you’re ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken inside for about 20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. This method helps retain the crispy skin and keeps the meat tender and juicy!
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, don’t worry! First, check the oven temperature with a thermometer to ensure accuracy. If the chicken appears to be cooking too slowly, you might need to adjust the temperature while keeping an eye on the water level in the tray. Not enough water can lead to drying out, while too much moisture can affect the crispiness of the skin. Ensure that the chicken is positioned properly on the rack too, allowing hot air to circulate around it evenly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This recipe includes soy sauce, which contains gluten. If you’re serving someone with a gluten intolerance, you can opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead. Additionally, the spices used in the recipe are generally safe; however, always double-check for any ingredient allergies among your guests to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal for everyone!
Delicious Chinese Five Spice Chicken for Family Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken over a large tray with the breasts down and the legs facing you. Cut along both sides of the backbone with kitchen scissors to prepare for spatchcocking.
- Flatten the chicken: Carefully flip the chicken so the breasts are facing up. Press firmly on the middle until it’s completely flattened for even cooking.
- Pat dry: Use kitchen paper to pat dry the whole chicken, removing any moisture.
- Mix and rub spices: Combine salt, five spice powder, garlic powder, and white pepper in a bowl. Rub half of this mixture inside the cavity of the chicken.
- Flavor the skin: Mix dark soy sauce and Shaoxing rice wine, then rub it over the skin side. Massage the remaining dry spice mix over the skin.
- Refrigerate: Leave the seasoned chicken to rest uncovered in the fridge overnight (12-24 hours).
- Bring to room temperature: One hour before cooking, take the chicken out of the fridge.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat a fan-assisted oven to 390°F/200°C.
- Set up for roasting: Use a roasting tray with a wire rack, fill with water, and place the chicken on the rack.
- Initial bake: Cook the chicken for 15 minutes to start browning.
- Lower the temperature: Turn the oven down to 320°F/160°C and continue cooking for 20 more minutes.
- Check water level: Monitor the water level in the tray, topping it up if necessary.
- Add glaze: Mix honey and dark soy sauce and brush a thin layer over the skin. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes.
- Final roast: Turn the heat back up to 390°F/200°C, brush with glaze again, and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
- Rest and serve: Check for doneness, then let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
