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Congyou ji (葱油鸡)

China

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Anime-style illustration of soy-glazed chicken drumsticks with scallions and ginger, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli's whimsical food art

Tender chicken drumsticks coated in a fragrant soy sauce with green onion and ginger, quick to prepare and offering the warm taste of traditional Chinese cuisine. Perfect as a main dish with rice or as a standalone meal.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Chicken drumsticks split along the bone, seasoned with salt, ready for marinating, illustrated in Studio Ghibli style with soft watercolor textures and whimsical charm

    Separate the chicken drumsticks by cutting through the thigh and leg bones, flatten the pieces, pierce them with a fork, season with salt and let them marinate for 5 minutes.

  2. Chicken drumsticks sizzling skin-side down in a dry pan, achieving a golden crisp—illustrated in a whimsical Studio Ghibli-style watercolor with Miyazaki's signature warmth

    Sear the chicken drumsticks skin-side down in a dry pan over high heat until a golden crust forms and the fat renders.

  3. Cong You Ji Chicken, Chinese Cuisine, Anime Illustration of Cooking

    Flip the drumsticks, brown the other side, and remove them from the pan.

  4. Cong You Ji Chinese dish, cooking step, anime illustration

    Add green onion and ginger to the pan and stir-fry until the onion begins to wilt.

  5. Cong You Ji cooking, Chinese chicken, Studio Ghibli anime illustration

    Place the chicken drumsticks skin-side up on the onion, combine light and dark soy sauce, sugar, ground white pepper, and water, then pour the mixture into the pan.

  6. Cong You Ji Chinese dish, cooking process, anime illustration

    Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover with a lid, and simmer for 6 minutes.

  7. Tsunyu Ji, Chinese Chicken, Cooking Process, Studio Ghibli Illustration, Anime Recipe

    Remove the lid, flip the drumsticks skin-side down, and cook uncovered for another 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  8. Cong You Ji serving, Chinese chicken, anime cooking illustration

    Slice the cooked drumsticks and serve them with the resulting sauce.

FAQ

How do you pronounce Congyou ji (葱油鸡)?

Congyou ji is pronounced 'Tsung-yoh jee'. The Chinese characters 葱油鸡 mean 'scallion oil chicken'.

What can I substitute for chicken drumsticks in this Congyou ji recipe?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, though cooking times may vary. Adjust to ensure chicken is cooked through.

How long does it take to prepare Congyou ji?

This Congyou ji recipe takes approximately 34 minutes to prepare from start to finish, including cooking time.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Congyou ji?

Congyou ji is traditionally served with steamed white rice. It also pairs well with simple stir-fried vegetables or a light clear soup.

Can I make Congyou ji ahead of time and store it?

Yes, cooked Congyou ji can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.