Jul 14 2026

Beggar's Chicken Recipe

Time3h
Serves4

Beggar's chicken is a famous dish that is cooked in leaves and clay, delivering a unique flavor.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Stuffing Ingredients

Wrapping Ingredients

Method

Preparation of Chicken

  1. 1

    Marinating the Chicken

    In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, five-spice powder, and salt. Add the whole chicken and coat it well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.

  2. 2

    Preparing the Stuffing

    In a small bowl, combine the ginger, garlic, green onions, and mushrooms. Mix them well and set aside.

Wrapping the Chicken

  1. 3

    Soaking Lotus Leaves

    Soak the dried lotus leaves in warm water for about 30 minutes until they are pliable. Drain and pat dry.

  2. 4

    Stuffing the Chicken

    Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Stuff the chicken cavity with the prepared stuffing mixture.

  3. 5

    Wrapping

    Place one lotus leaf on a flat surface, and place the stuffed chicken in the center. Fold the leaf over the chicken to encase it completely. Wrap it tightly in clay or aluminum foil to seal in the moisture.

Cooking

  1. 6

    Baking

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wrapped chicken in a baking dish and bake for about 2 hours.

  2. 7

    Resting

    Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before unwrapping.

  3. 8

    Serving

    Carefully unwrap the chicken, and serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

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