China By Food Enthusiasts · 6 min read

National Dish China: Zui Ji (Recipe)

Tender drunken chicken pieces garnished with fresh coriander

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Say hello to Zui Ji, the Chinese classic better known in English as “drunken chicken”. Tender pieces of chicken are steeped in a fragrant marinade of soy sauce, ginger and garlic, then gently cooked and finished with a scattering of fresh herbs. The result is a dish of quiet elegance — bright, savoury and just a little heady from the wine that gives it its name. It is perfect for a special occasion or an impressive dinner with friends and family.

About Zui Ji

Zui Ji, also known as “drunken chicken”, is a traditional Chinese dish that captures the essence of the country’s rich culinary diversity. The delicately marinated pieces of chicken welcome the flavours of soy sauce, ginger and garlic, offering a distinctive taste experience. The dish is often garnished with aromatic herbs that bring extra freshness and colour to the plate. It works beautifully for special occasions or memorable dinner evenings shared with friends and family, and it sits comfortably among the celebrated dishes of Chinese cuisine.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

300 g chicken breast fillet
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon rice wine or Shaoxing wine
1 teaspoon sugar
Fresh herbs (such as coriander or spring onions), to garnish

Shopping for the ingredients

When shopping for Zui Ji, pay close attention to the quality of the chicken. Fresh, locally sourced chicken gives a better aroma and a more tender texture. Soy sauce and the other seasonings are available in any Asian grocery, and it is worth seeking out the freshest herbs you can find, as they make a real difference to the finished dish.

Preparing the dish

Preparing Zui Ji is simple and genuinely enjoyable. Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Next, combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well to ensure an even flavour throughout. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes so the aromas can soak in properly. While it rests, you can prepare the herbs for the garnish.

Step-by-step instructions

Combine the chicken thoroughly with the marinade in a bowl.
Heat a little oil in a pan and add the marinated chicken.
Fry the chicken over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Arrange on a serving plate and garnish with fresh herbs.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

For a gluten-free preparation of Zui Ji, you can use gluten-free soy sauce, which is usually available in health-food shops. It is important to check the ingredients carefully to make sure no gluten-containing products slip in. For a lactose-free version there are generally no special adjustments needed, as most of the ingredients are naturally lactose-free. Even so, it is best to avoid ready-made marinades and sauces and to use your own fresh ingredients instead.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

Vegans and vegetarians can adapt Zui Ji very easily by replacing the chicken with tofu or seitan. These alternatives take on the marinade just as well and are a wonderful way to achieve the same intense flavour. Be sure to press the tofu before use to remove excess liquid, so it absorbs the aromas more readily when frying. Fresh vegetables such as broccoli or peppers can also be added to round out the dish.

More tips and tricks

A few tips and tricks can make your Zui Ji even better. Let the marinade rest overnight in the fridge to deepen the flavour further. You can also play with the seasonings — adding a little chilli, for example, if you like things spicier. To improve the presentation, serve the dish in an attractive bowl and garnish with fresh herbs to add colour and freshness.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

Everyone has their own preferences, and that is the joy of cooking. You can adapt Zui Ji to suit your taste by, for instance, adding other vegetables or swapping the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce. A sweeter note, such as a touch of honey, can make a welcome change too. Experiment with different herbs and spices to make the dish your own — much as you might with a punchy plate of Three-Cup Chicken.

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have every ingredient to hand, several substitutions work perfectly well. In place of rice wine you can use a splash of apple cider vinegar. For the soy sauce, tamari is a good gluten-free alternative. And if you are not keen on garlic, you can simply leave it out or swap it for shallots. Adjustments like these let you tailor the dish to your taste with no fuss at all.

Drink pairing ideas

Several options pair nicely with Zui Ji. A well-chilled Asian lager complements the flavours beautifully, while a fruity white wine such as Riesling supports the chicken pleasantly. For alcohol-free alternatives, consider a refreshing lemonade or a cup of green tea. These drinks round off the experience perfectly and make for a harmonious combination.

Serving and presentation ideas

The presentation of Zui Ji can make a real impression. Serve the dish in a large, elegant bowl so it takes centre stage. You can add further colour and freshness with a scattering of fresh herbs. Remember to set out a small dish of extra soy sauce for dipping, to make the experience even more appealing for your guests — a thoughtful touch that also suits a sharing dish like Wonton Soup.

A bit of history

The dish Zui Ji has a long history in Chinese cooking and is traditionally prepared in various regions across China. Its name, which translates as “drunken chicken”, refers to the use of wine in the marinade, which gives the dish its distinctive character. In Chinese culture meals are often shared, and Zui Ji is frequently served at festivals and special occasions, encouraging conviviality and a sense of community.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Zui Ji

In short, Zui Ji is a captivating dish that shines in both flavour and tradition. With its combination of tender chicken and aromatic seasonings, it offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian or a committed meat-lover, this dish has something for everyone. Let it inspire you and enjoy the diversity of Chinese cuisine with this authentic recipe.