Kou Shui Ji – Spicy, Savory, and Mouthwatering Chicken

Kou Shui Ji, also known as Mouthwatering Chicken, is a classic Sichuan dish that delivers bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors. Tender poached chicken is drenched in a flavorful chili, garlic, and sesame sauce, creating a dish that’s both fiery and savory. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or for sharing with friends, this recipe brings authentic Sichuan flavors straight to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold & Spicy – A vibrant chili and garlic sauce packs plenty of heat and flavor.
Tender & Juicy – Poached chicken stays moist and soft.
Quick & Simple – Minimal ingredients with easy preparation.
Perfect for Sharing – A stunning dish for family meals or dinner parties.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 1 whole chicken)
• 4 cups water
• 2 slices ginger
• 2 green onions, cut into large pieces
• 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1–2 tsp chili oil (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Poach the Chicken
   In a pot, bring water, ginger, green onions, and salt to a boil. Add chicken and poach for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked. Remove chicken and let it cool, then slice thinly or shred.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, black vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil, minced garlic, sugar, and ground Sichuan peppercorns.
3. Assemble the Dish
   Arrange sliced chicken on a serving plate. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken.
4. Garnish and Serve
   Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and roasted peanuts if using. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~250
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Poach just until fully cooked to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust the Heat – Modify chili oil to your spice preference.
• Let Flavors Marinate – Allow the chicken to sit in the sauce for 10–15 minutes for maximum flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

Poaching keeps the chicken juicy and tender while the aromatic, spicy sauce infuses it with bold Sichuan flavors. The combination of garlic, chili, and sesame creates a balanced, mouthwatering dish that’s both spicy and savory.

Kou Shui Ji is a quick, flavorful Sichuan dish that’s tender, spicy, and packed with aromatic flavors. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, it’s a stunning recipe that brings authentic Chinese cuisine into your home kitchen.