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Sha-cha ji (沙茶鸡)

China

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Sha-cha Ji chicken, Chinese dish, Ghibli illustration

A simple recipe for chicken in a fragrant Sha Cha sauce. Quick to prepare, and the result is juicy and aromatic. Perfect for serving with steamed rice.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Shacha Ji chicken marinating, anime illustration of Eastern cuisine

    Cut the chicken thighs into pieces, place them in a bowl and add Sha Cha sauce, light soy sauce, corn starch, salt, and sugar. Mix well, then pour in ½ tablespoon of neutral vegetable oil and coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

  2. Chinese cuisine Shacha Ji, chicken marinating recipe anime illustration

    Let the chicken rest in the marinade for 10 minutes.

  3. Shacha Ji stir-frying chicken with ginger garlic, Studio Ghibli anime illustration

    Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of neutral vegetable oil in a pan, add the marinated chicken pieces, ginger, and garlic without overlapping. Fry over medium heat until the first side is golden brown.

  4. Chinese Shacha Ji chicken, anime cooking illustration Studio Ghibli style

    Flip the chicken pieces and fry the other side until golden brown.

  5. Shacha Ji Chinese chicken braising, anime illustration Studio Ghibli style

    Pour in about ½ cup of water (approximately 120 ml), cover with a lid and simmer over high heat for about 4 minutes.

  6. Shacha Ji cooking step illustration, Chinese cuisine, Studio Ghibli style

    Remove the lid, add the sliced green onion and cook until the liquid almost completely evaporates.

  7. Chinese Shacha Ji chicken served, anime illustration Studio Ghibli

    Plate the cooked chicken and serve immediately with steamed rice.

FAQ

What is Sha-cha ji (沙茶鸡)?

Sha-cha ji is a traditional Chinese dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, savory Sha Cha sauce, often served with rice.

How do you pronounce 沙茶鸡?

沙茶鸡 is pronounced 'Sha-cha ji'. The 'ji' sounds like 'gee' in 'geese'.

Can I substitute Sha Cha sauce in this recipe?

While Sha Cha sauce is key to the authentic flavor, you could use a blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and chili paste for a similar, but not identical, profile.

What's the best way to serve Sha-cha ji?

Sha-cha ji is traditionally served hot with freshly steamed white rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes, this Sha-cha ji recipe is designed to be quick and straightforward, making it perfect for novice cooks.