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Cantonese Chicken

Name: Cantonese chicken
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 shallots; 2 garlic cloves; 1 red chili pepper (such as a jalapeño), optional; 1 bunch green onions; 5 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2-inch piece fresh ginger; Vegetable oil

ByTim & Erik February 15, 2026June 23, 2026

Simple to make, full of flavor

Do you usually rely on store-bought sauces and marinades? You can easily make them yourself just as quickly.

This Cantonese chicken is our take on a more balanced version. Simple to make, full of flavor, and much closer to what you actually want on your plate. We like going back to the basics. Not more complicated, just more flavor. No unnecessary additives, just ingredients you have full control over. And trust us, you can really taste the difference. It’s approachable and always a crowd-pleaser.

What is Cantonese chicken?

The name might make it sound like a very specific Chinese dish, but it’s a bit different. Cantonese cuisine, from southern China, is known for its light, clean flavors. Ingredients take the lead, while sauces support instead of overpower.

The version we know is often a Western, Chinese-American interpretation. Slightly sweeter and richer, and more in line with what we’re used to. That doesn’t make it any less good, just a bit different. Our version sits right in between. Familiar, but with more flavor and without unnecessary additions.

Making it yourself is really easy

What always stands out to us with dishes like this is how simple they actually are. It might sound like something you’d only get from a takeout spot, but there’s no need. With just a few basic ingredients, you can get very far. The secret is in the marinade. Soy sauce, oyster sauce, a bit of sugar, and cornstarch come together to create that signature flavor. Letting the chicken marinate for a bit gives the dish a little more body, without any extra effort.

That classic Asian flavor

Everything really comes together during the stir-fry. The combination of shallot, garlic, and ginger creates a smell that instantly reminds you of Asian cooking. Add some sliced red chili if you like, and it brings a bit of heat.

The mirin we add at the end gives a subtle sweetness and umami and works well with the other ingredients. Everything comes together in a sauce that isn’t too heavy but still full of flavor. Exactly how you want it, savory, slightly sweet, and with a fresh touch.