Amazing 5 Spice Braised Chicken with Egg Noodles

When it comes to comforting meals that are both satisfying and full of flavor, few dishes can compare to the warmth and richness of a well-prepared chicken braise. Today, we’re diving into a culinary adventure that takes your taste buds on a journey through the heart of Asian cuisine.

Our featured recipe, “Five Spice Braised Chicken with Egg Noodles,” is a symphony of fragrant spices, succulent chicken, and silky egg noodles that will leave you craving for seconds.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting to explore the world of Asian flavors, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary voyage that will have you savoring every bite.

Basically, this is a very similar recipe to the braised pork belly I posted last week using the five-spice powder as a base, and chicken legs and thighs in place of pork belly. Because chicken is less flavorful than pork, in addition to the onion and ginger I also use a paste of garlic, cilantro roots, and peppercorn to add a bit more flavor to the braising liquid. I like to serve the braised chicken with egg noodles and crunchy blanched bok choy.

Whereas pork belly is not something you want to make multiple meals of–unless you’re on a quick weight gain regimen for your upcoming Sumo match–you can easily get three or four weeknight dinners out of a big pot of this braised chicken. Just change the carbohydrates and vegetables and you have a new dish every night. I’ve even once pulled apart the meat from a thigh and used it to make a chicken sandwich, a sort of improvised Chicken Bahn Mi.

Five Spice Braised Chicken with Egg Noodles

Ingredients:

• 6 cloves of garlic
• 3 cilantro roots
• 1 teaspoon of white and black pepper
• a pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon of oil
• 3 teaspoons of five-spice powder
• 1/2 a medium onion, diced
• 1 2-inch long knob of ginger, peeled and sliced
• fish sauce
• soy sauce
• 3 pounds of chicken thighs and legs
• (or 1 4-pound chicken, cut into six pieces)

Directions:

In a mortar, pound garlic, cilantro roots, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt together until fine. You can use a small food processor if you don’t have a mortar and pestle.

In a large pot over medium heat, add the oil and the garlic paste. Cook the paste, stirring vigorously until fragrant, about a minute. Add the onion and five-spice powder, cook until the onion is translucent and the five-spice fragrant. Add a bit more oil if it’s a bit sticky. Add the chicken pieces and add just enough water to cover the chicken. Add one tablespoon of fish sauce, a tablespoon of soy sauce, and ginger slices to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked and tender about 30-45 minutes.

Remove the chicken pieces from the braising pot and add them to a medium-sized pot. Set the chicken aside. Return the braising pot with the liquid to the stove and reduce, over high heat, until the liquid reduces by half. Check the seasoning, and add more fish sauce or soy sauce to taste. Strain the reduced liquid and pour it over the chicken. Reheat the chicken and sauce until heated through and serve.

I love to serve this braised chicken with egg noodles. Cook dried or fresh egg noodles until done, and serve with the chicken and plenty of braising liquid. I sometimes quickly cook a bit of bok choy to add some crunch and freshness to the noodles. Add a squeeze of lime and a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick, if you want.

In the realm of culinary experiences, the “Five Spice Braised Chicken with Egg Noodles” is a testament to the power of simplicity and tradition. The aromatic blend of spices, the tenderness of braised chicken, and the comforting embrace of egg noodles come together in perfect harmony. As you savor the last bite, you’ll find yourself transported to the vibrant markets and bustling kitchens of Asia.

This recipe is not just a delicious meal; it’s a cultural exchange on a plate, a way to celebrate the rich tapestry of Asian cuisine right in your own home. So, whether you’re preparing it for a special family dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or to impress your friends at your next gathering, this dish will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Remember, the heart of every great dish lies in the passion and love you put into preparing it. So, take your time, enjoy the process, and savor every moment as you recreate this delightful “Five Spice Braised Chicken with Egg Noodles.” Your culinary journey has only just begun, and there are countless more recipes and flavors to explore. Bon appétit!