Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I prepared for a cozy dinner gathering, the scent of ginger and garlic wafting through my kitchen took me back to my travels in China, where I first savored the delightful Shandong Chicken. This comforting dish, also known as Shantung Chicken, oozes with rich flavors and boasts a crispy roasted exterior that captivates any palate. What excites me most about this recipe is its simple preparation, making it a perfect choice for a stress-free weeknight meal or a festive family-style gathering. Plus, you can enjoy all the authentic tastes of Chinese cuisine without the fuss of traditional techniques. Are you ready to elevate your dinner experience with this mouthwatering roast? Why will you love Shandong Roast Chicken? Simplicity at Its Best: The roasting method is effortless, making it perfect even for beginners. Rich, Authentic Flavor: This recipe combines aromatic ginger, garlic, and Chinese black vinegar for a unique taste that transports you straight to China. Family-style Serving: It’s designed to bring everyone together, perfect for your cozy dinners or vibrant gatherings. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spice level with red chili or introduce crunchy veggies like cucumber or radishes, making it adaptable to your taste! Time-Saving Delight: With minimal hands-on cooking, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of traditional preparation techniques. Elevate your dinner experience with Shandong Roast Chicken, and if you’re in the mood for more comforting dishes, don’t forget to check out these Poblano Chicken Tacos or Chicken Dumplings Cozy. Shandong Roast Chicken Ingredients • Discover the magic of flavors in this Shandong Roast Chicken recipe! For the Chicken Medium-sized Chicken – A whole chicken helps lock in the juiciness while roasting. Salt – Enhances flavor; use kosher salt for a less salty finish. For the Marinade Dark Soy Sauce – Imparts depth and richness; substitute with regular soy for a lighter flavor. Shaoxing Cooking Wine – Adds aromatic notes; can be replaced with dry sherry if unavailable. Sugar – Balances the savory elements; adjust to taste or use honey for a natural sweetness. Ginger (minced) – Provides a warm, spicy kick; fresh ginger is ideal for authentic taste. Garlic Cloves – Essential for flavor; consider using roasted garlic for a milder taste. For the Shandong Sauce Light Soy Sauce – Lighter in flavor for seasoning the sauce; regular soy sauce can work too. Chinese Black Vinegar – The key ingredient giving a unique tang; balsamic can be used as a substitute. For the Garnish Cucumber (cubed) – Adds a refreshing crunch; radishes can be a delightful alternative. Cilantro (chopped) – Fresh herbaceous note; feel free to omit if you dislike cilantro. Red Chili – Adds heat if desired; increase quantity for a spicier kick or omit for a milder dish. With these ingredients, you are well on your way to creating your own delicious Shandong Roast Chicken, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shandong Roast Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Begin by creating a flavorful marinade for your Shandong Roast Chicken. In a bowl, mix together dark soy sauce, Shaoxing cooking wine, salt, sugar, and minced ginger. Coat the chicken thoroughly with this mixture, ensuring every part is covered. Then, place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse and deepen. Step 2: Preheat the Oven While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). This temperature is perfect for roasting and will help achieve that desirable crispy skin. Set a roasting rack in a baking tray, as this will allow the heat to circulate around the chicken, resulting in even cooking and crispy results, crucial for a perfect Shandong Roast Chicken. Step 3: Roast the Chicken After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and place it on the prepared roasting rack. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). After the first 30 minutes of roasting, loosely cover the chicken with foil to prevent over-browning, keeping the skin evenly crispy. Step 4: Let the Chicken Rest Once your Shandong Roast Chicken is beautifully golden and cooked through, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. It also cools the chicken slightly, making it easier to handle when cutting. Step 5: Make the Shandong Sauce While the chicken rests, whisk together garlic, ginger, Shaoxing wine, sugar, light soy sauce, and black vinegar in a medium-sized bowl. This sauce will be the perfect accompaniment to your Shandong Roast Chicken, offering a tantalizing blend of flavors. Adjust seasoning to your taste, ensuring it has a balanced sweet and tangy profile. Step 6: Serve the Chicken Finally, carve the chicken into bite-sized pieces using poultry shears for easier handling. Arrange the pieces on a large serving platter and generously pour the Shandong sauce over the chicken. For a fresh touch, scatter cubed cucumber, chopped cilantro, and sliced red chili on top. Serve the dish warm or at room temperature, allowing everyone to enjoy its delightful flavors. Expert Tips for Shandong Roast Chicken Marinate Properly: Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to infuse maximum flavor. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and delicious Shandong Roast Chicken. Avoid Over-browning: Cover the chicken loosely with foil after the first 30 minutes of roasting to prevent the skin from burning, while keeping it crispy. Resting is Key: Allow the roasted chicken to rest for 30 minutes before carving. This retains moisture and results in juicier meat. Customize the Garnish: Feel free to swap cucumber with radishes or adjust the amount of red chili based on your preferred spice level for a personalized touch. What to Serve with Savoury Shandong Chicken? As you indulge in the rich flavors and enticing aroma of this crispy roast, let’s create a full meal experience that delights the senses. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious Shandong sauce, enhancing every bite with a gentle touch. Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This vibrant green veggie offers a tender crunch, balancing the savory richness of the chicken with its refreshing taste. Imagine savory charred edges complemented by the tender juicy center of the bok choy, bringing both flavor and texture to the table. Crispy Spring Rolls: Filled with fresh vegetables and paired with a sweet chili dipping sauce, these bite-sized delights add a satisfying crunch to your meal. Cucumber Salad: A light salad with cucumbers and a tangy vinegar dressing brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the roast. The cool crunch of cucumbers mixed with a zesty dressing is like a burst of freshness on your palate, complementing the warm, savory chicken. Chilled Green Tea: A calming beverage that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of Shandong Roast Chicken, enhancing your dining experience with a refreshing sip. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat adds an exotic flair to the meal, with its creamy coconut flavor and sweet, sticky rice providing a luscious finish. Storage Tips for Shandong Roast Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Shandong Roast Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and moisture. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the skin crispy. Enjoy Cold: Alternatively, serve leftover chicken cold, drizzled with the Shandong sauce for a refreshing snack or meal! Shandong Roast Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to experiment and customize your Shandong Roast Chicken for a unique culinary experience bursting with flavor! Chicken Thighs/Drumsticks: For quicker cooking, simply swap the whole chicken for thighs or drumsticks, ensuring tenderness and rich flavor. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili according to your taste preference; more chili means more heat, while omitting it makes for a milder dish. Honey Substitute: Replace sugar with honey for natural sweetness. This option also adds a wonderful depth to the glaze, enhancing the flavors beautifully. Vegetable Variations: Mix in snow pea shoots or sugar snap peas to bring freshness and added texture to the dish. These vibrant veggies make for a delightful contrast with the chicken! Soy Sauce Alteration: If unavailable, use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lighter alternative while maintaining similar flavors. Add Citrus: Squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice over the roasted chicken before serving to brighten the flavors and add a zesty twist. Garlic Twist: For a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw; it will lend a sweet, caramelized essence to the dish. Cucumber Alternatives: If cucumbers are not to your liking, radishes can add a crispy, peppery crunch that complements the roast wonderfully. Each of these variations allows you to tailor the Shandong Roast Chicken to your palate or explore new tastes! And while you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing your meal with other family favorites like Italian Ground Chicken or enjoying a cozy night with Pesto Chicken Broccoli. Enjoy your cooking journey! Make Ahead Options Preparing Shandong Roast Chicken in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, allowing it to soak up all those flavorful ingredients in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can whisk together the Shandong sauce and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just keep it refrigerated to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, roast the marinated chicken straight from the fridge for about 1 to 1.5 hours, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This approach guarantees a delightful meal with minimal effort, so you can enjoy the comforting tastes of Shandong Roast Chicken with ease! Shandong Roast Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for Shandong Roast Chicken? Absolutely! A medium-sized whole chicken is best for this recipe, as it allows for even cooking and keeps the meat juicy. If you’re short on time, feel free to use chicken thighs or drumsticks; they roast faster and are equally delicious! How should I store leftover Shandong Roast Chicken? To keep your Shandong Roast Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to avoid freezer burn! Can I freeze Shandong Roast Chicken, and how do I do it? Absolutely! To freeze your Shandong Roast Chicken, start by letting it cool completely. Then, carve the chicken into portions and tightly wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results! What should I do if my chicken skin doesn’t get crispy? No worries! If the skin isn’t crispy enough, it could be due to moisture. Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before marinating. Additionally, using a roasting rack keeps the chicken elevated, allowing heat to circulate for crispiness. If it still isn’t crispy after roasting, broil it briefly for a few minutes, watching closely so it doesn’t burn. Are there any dietary considerations for Shandong Roast Chicken? Very! This recipe includes soy sauce, which may contain gluten, so for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Also, if you’re concerned about dietary restrictions regarding allergies, check for any specific ingredients like peanuts or other common allergens when selecting substitutes. Just ensure your ingredients align with your personal or family dietary needs! Delicious Shandong Roast Chicken: Simple and Full of Flavor Savor the rich flavors of Shandong Roast Chicken, a simple yet delicious dish that brings authentic Chinese taste to your table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 2 hours hrsCook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 4 hours hrs Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ChineseCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 whole Medium-sized Chicken A whole chicken helps lock in the juiciness while roasting.2 teaspoons Salt Enhances flavor; use kosher salt for a less salty finish.For the Marinade2 tablespoons Dark Soy Sauce Imparts depth and richness; substitute with regular soy for a lighter flavor.2 tablespoons Shaoxing Cooking Wine Adds aromatic notes; can be replaced with dry sherry if unavailable.1 tablespoon Sugar Balances the savory elements; adjust to taste or use honey for a natural sweetness.1 tablespoon Ginger (minced) Provides a warm, spicy kick; fresh ginger is ideal for authentic taste.4 cloves Garlic Cloves Essential for flavor; consider using roasted garlic for a milder taste.For the Shandong Sauce2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce Lighter in flavor for seasoning the sauce; regular soy sauce can work too.2 tablespoons Chinese Black Vinegar The key ingredient giving a unique tang; balsamic can be used as a substitute.For the Garnish1 cup Cucumber (cubed) Adds a refreshing crunch; radishes can be a delightful alternative.1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped) Fresh herbaceous note; feel free to omit if you dislike cilantro.1 whole Red Chili Adds heat if desired; increase quantity for a spicier kick or omit for a milder dish. Equipment OvenRoasting RackMixing bowlBaking TrayMeat ThermometerPoultry Shears Method Marinate the ChickenIn a bowl, mix together dark soy sauce, Shaoxing cooking wine, salt, sugar, and minced ginger. Coat the chicken thoroughly with this mixture, ensuring every part is covered. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.Preheat the OvenPreheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and set a roasting rack in a baking tray.Roast the ChickenRemove the chicken from the refrigerator and place it on the prepared roasting rack. Roast for about 1 to 1.5 hours, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cover loosely with foil after 30 minutes.Let the Chicken RestLet the chicken rest for 30 minutes after roasting.Make the Shandong SauceWhisk together garlic, ginger, Shaoxing wine, sugar, light soy sauce, and black vinegar in a medium-sized bowl.Serve the ChickenCarve the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pour the Shandong sauce over it. Garnish with cubed cucumber, chopped cilantro, and sliced red chili. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best flavor, ensure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade and refrigerated for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
