Hsuyn Ji Chicken

Taiwanese tea smoked chicken

Discover the rich and aromatic flavors of Taiwanese cuisine with this exquisite Hsuyn Ji Smoked Chicken recipe.

This Taiwanese inspired dish, showcases a unique smoking process and fragrant spices, offers a delightful culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds. The process begins with boiling a whole chicken to tender perfection, followed by an ice water bath to lock in its juiciness. The real magic happens when the chicken is smoked over a blend of sugar and tea leaves, imparting a subtle sweetness and a deep, smoky aroma that is simply irresistible.

Perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals, this smoked chicken dish is as visually impressive as it is delicious. The golden-brown exterior, brushed with sesame oil for a glossy finish, hints at the succulent, flavorful meat within. Serve this dish hot or cold, garnished with fresh lemon slices, for a meal that is sure to impress your family and guests. Pair it with steamed rice and a light salad to complement the rich, smoky flavors and enjoy a taste of Taiwan in your own home.

Hsuyn Ji Chicken

    • Preparation: 10 min
    • Cooking: 25 min
    • Ready in: 35 min

    Ingredients

    • 1 whole chicken (no. 15 size)
    • 6 cups water
    • 6 cups ice water
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 100 gram sugar
    • 1 tablespoon tea leaves
    • 2 teaspoons seasame oil
    • 4 teaspoons cooking oil
    • 1/2 cup warm water
    • 1 lemon (thinly sliced)

    Instructions

    1. In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add the chicken and boil for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
    2. Remove the chicken and soak it in the iced water for about 10 minutes.
    3. Remove the chicken from the ice water and let it dry on a cooling rack.
    4. In a well-ventilated area, prepare a wok or large pot for smoking by placing three sheets of aluminum foil at the bottom.
    5. Spread the sugar and tea leaves on top of the foil and place a greased cake rack over them.
    6. Heat the wok to high.
    7. Mix the salt with 1/2 cup of warm water and brush this mixture onto the chicken, then rub the cooking oil into the skin. Cover the chicken with the lemon slices.
    8. Place the chicken on the rack, cover the wok with a lid, and continue to cook for about 5 minutes until the sugar and tea leaves begin to burn and generate smoke
    9. When thick smoke escapes from the pot, the chicken is ready. Remove it from the wok and lightly brush it with sesame oil while hot to form a sticky glaze.
    10. Serve hot or cold.

    Nutritional Information

    • Per serving
    • Energy: 710 kcal / 2968 kJ
    • Fat: 47.5 g
    • Protein: 41.5 g
    • Carbs: 26.7 g