Asian Paper-Wrapped Chicken
This elegant Chinese-inspired dish features tender chicken pieces marinated in aromatic Asian flavors and steamed in individual parchment packets. The paper-wrapping technique locks in moisture and creates an impressive presentation that's perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
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Servings: 4
Calories: 185kcal
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dry sherry or white wine
- 3 tbsp oyster or hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 tsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp Chinese five-spice powder
For Assembly:
- 1 lb boneless chicken cut into 1.5-2 inch pieces
- 3 green onions sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Parchment paper squares 6-8 inch
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sherry, oyster sauce, grated ginger, sesame oil, brown sugar, and five-spice powder to create the marinade.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, guaranteeing all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours or overnight.
- Cut parchment paper into 6-8 inch squares, making sure you have enough for each chicken piece.
- Place a slice of ginger and some green onions on each parchment square.
- Add one marinated chicken piece on top of the aromatics on each parchment square.
- Gather the corners of the parchment and fold the sides like an envelope, creating a secure packet that seals in the chicken.
- Steam the packets in a steamer for 20 minutes, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing guests to unwrap their own packets at the table.
Notes
Marinating overnight will develop much deeper, more complex flavors in the chicken.
Make sure parchment squares are large enough to create a proper seal - 6-8 inches works best.
You can substitute hoisin sauce for oyster sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
These packets can be assembled up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated before cooking.
If steaming isn't available, baking works equally well - just ensure packets are well-sealed.
Garnish with extra cilantro and sliced green onions after unwrapping for added freshness.
Test doneness by checking that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition
Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 890mg | Potassium: 320mg | Sugar: 6g