Three Cups Chicken: The Ultimate Taiwanese Comfort Dish

Three Cups Chicken, also known as San Bei Ji (三杯鸡), is a famous Taiwanese dish celebrated for its rich, aromatic flavors and simple ingredient list. This iconic recipe derives its name from the three main ingredients in the sauce: sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine. While its origins are rooted in Chinese mainland traditions, Three Cups Chicken has become a staple in Taiwanese homes and restaurants around the world. In this guide, we’ll explore the history of Three Cups Chicken, its key ingredients, cooking techniques, and why it has become such a beloved dish.

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Origins of Three Cups Chicken

The story of Three Cups Chicken begins in Jiangxi Province on the Chinese mainland, where it was first created centuries ago. According to legend, the dish was invented during the Song Dynasty (960–1279) for Wen Tianxiang, a famous scholar and political figure imprisoned at the time. With limited ingredients, his caretakers used just enough sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine to flavor his meals. Over time, this simple yet flavorful dish became well-known and eventually found its way to Taiwan, where it was adapted to local tastes, especially with the addition of fresh basil, a defining characteristic of the Taiwanese version.

Today, Three Cups Chicken is an iconic Taiwanese recipe, beloved for its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors.

Key Ingredients in Three Cups Chicken

The flavors of Three Cups Chicken are built around a handful of carefully selected ingredients, each bringing something unique to the dish:

Chicken – Traditionally, bone-in pieces with skin are used, as they absorb the sauce well and add richness to the dish. Thigh meat is often preferred for its juiciness and flavor.
Sesame Oil – Dark sesame oil is essential for its intense, nutty aroma, forming the aromatic foundation of the dish. Its rich scent permeates the sauce, adding warmth and depth.
Soy Sauce – A combination of light and dark soy sauces is often used to achieve both flavor and color. Dark soy sauce provides a deep, rich color, while light soy sauce brings a balanced saltiness.
Rice Wine – Shaoxing rice wine, a slightly sweet, fermented wine, is key to the flavor profile of Three Cups Chicken. It adds complexity and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and aromatic notes.
Aromatics: Garlic, Ginger, and Scallions – These classic Chinese aromatics are cooked in sesame oil to release their full flavors, which infuse into the chicken and sauce, creating a fragrant and savory base.
Fresh Basil – In the Taiwanese version, fresh basil (often Thai basil) is added just before serving. Its slightly anise-like flavor pairs beautifully with the sauce and brings a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Cook Three Cups Chicken

Three Cups Chicken is traditionally prepared by braising the chicken in the aromatic sauce until it becomes tender and deeply flavored. Here’s an overview of the process:

Sear the Chicken and Aromatics – The chicken pieces are first browned in sesame oil, along with garlic, ginger, and scallions. This step builds the initial layer of flavor and allows the aromatics to infuse the oil.
Add the Sauce – The three key ingredients (sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine) are added in roughly equal amounts. The chicken is then simmered in this sauce, which gradually reduces and thickens, creating a sticky, caramelized coating.
Finish with Basil – Once the sauce has thickened and clings to the chicken, fresh basil is added on top. The basil is gently wilted by the heat of the dish, preserving its fresh flavor and fragrance.

Flavor Profile and Serving Suggestions

The flavor of Three Cups Chicken is bold, balanced, and multi-layered. The sesame oil adds warmth, the soy sauce provides savory depth, and the rice wine adds a touch of sweetness. As the sauce reduces, it thickens into a glossy, slightly sticky coating that clings to the chicken, while the basil adds a fresh, herbaceous note that elevates the dish.

Three Cups Chicken is best served hot, often presented in a clay pot or cast-iron skillet to keep it warm. It’s typically paired with steamed white rice, which complements the intensity of the sauce and allows you to fully enjoy the dish’s flavors.

Why Three Cups Chicken is So Popular

Three Cups Chicken is a dish that perfectly encapsulates Taiwanese cooking philosophy: it transforms a few simple ingredients into a comforting, flavorful meal. The recipe is easy to make, yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home. Its adaptability has also contributed to its popularity—while the traditional recipe sticks closely to the “three cups” rule, some variations add sugar or other spices for a hint of sweetness. Despite these variations, the essence of the dish remains the same: a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic notes.

Today, Three Cups Chicken is enjoyed across Taiwan and beyond, cherished by families and friends gathering for a comforting meal. Its fame continues to grow as more people discover the delicious simplicity and bold flavors of this Taiwanese classic.

Three Cups Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a dish that represents the heart of Taiwanese cuisine, balancing robust flavors with simple ingredients. Whether served in a bustling Taiwanese restaurant or cooked at home, Three Cups Chicken has earned its place as a true comfort food classic.

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