Tea-Smoked Chicken Recipe

 

Easy Chinese Tea-Smoked Chicken Skewers Recipe: Authentic Smoky Flavor at Home

Craving the rich, aromatic flavors of Chinese street food without leaving your kitchen? These Chinese tea-smoked chicken skewers deliver a perfect blend of tender chicken, savory marinade, and subtle smoky notes from tea leaves. Inspired by traditional Chinese smoking techniques, this recipe uses a wok or smoker to infuse the skewers with the earthy essence of black tea, rice, and sugar for an authentic taste. Ready in about 1 hour (plus marinating time), it's ideal for beginners and makes a fantastic appetizer, main dish, or party snack. Whether you're searching for an easy Chinese tea-smoked chicken recipe, authentic tea-smoked skewers, or a homemade smoky chicken kebab with Asian flair, this step-by-step guide brings restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients.

Tea-smoking is a classic Chinese method that imparts a unique, mild smoke flavor without overpowering the dish, often used in recipes like smoked duck or chicken. Let's fire up the wok!

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What Are Chinese Tea-Smoked Chicken Skewers?

Chinese tea-smoked chicken skewers are bite-sized pieces of marinated chicken threaded on skewers, grilled or pan-seared for char, then smoked using a mixture of tea leaves, rice, and sugar for a delicate, aromatic finish. This technique, rooted in Chinese cuisine, creates a smoky flavor reminiscent of barbecue but with herbal notes from black tea and spices like star anise or cinnamon. Unlike traditional BBQ skewers, the tea-smoking adds a subtle, tea-infused depth without heavy wood smoke, making it lighter and more nuanced. Popular in home cooking and street food, it's often served with dipping sauces and pairs well with rice or veggies. This recipe is naturally gluten-free (check sauces), high in protein, and adaptable for dietary needs—think of it as a healthier twist on yakitori or satay with a Chinese flair.

Ingredients for Chinese Tea-Smoked Chicken Skewers

This recipe serves 4-6 (about 12-16 skewers) and uses accessible ingredients—focus on quality tea leaves for the best smoke flavor.

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or rice vinegar + sugar substitute)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp five-spice powder
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tea-Smoking Mixture:

• 1/3 cup black tea leaves (like oolong or lapsang souchong for smokiness)
• 1/3 cup uncooked white rice
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 cinnamon sticks or star anise (optional for aroma)
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chinese Tea-Smoked Chicken Skewers

This method combines marinating, quick cooking, and smoking for maximum flavor. Prep time: 15 minutes | Marinate: 30 minutes-2 hours | Cook time: 20 minutes.

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, five-spice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes, toss to coat, and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Skewer the Chicken: Thread 4-5 marinated chicken pieces onto each soaked skewer. Reserve marinade for basting if desired.
3. Cook the Skewers: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Grill skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C). Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Prepare for Smoking: Line a wok or large pot with aluminum foil. Add the tea leaves, rice, brown sugar, and optional spices in the center. Place a wire rack or steamer basket above the mixture.
5. Smoke the Skewers: Heat the wok over high until smoke appears (about 5 minutes). Place skewers on the rack, cover tightly with foil and lid, and smoke on medium-low for 10-15 minutes. Turn off heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes.

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6. Serve: Garnish with green onions or cilantro. Enjoy hot with extra sweet chili sauce or over rice!

Tips for the Perfect Chinese Tea-Smoked Chicken Skewers

• Tea Choice: Use loose black tea for authentic smoke; lapsang souchong adds natural smokiness without extra wood.
• Marinate Longer: Overnight marinating intensifies flavors—great for meal prep.
• Smoking Safety: Ensure good ventilation; use a wok with a tight lid to contain smoke.
• Skewer Alternatives: Use metal skewers for grilling to avoid soaking.
• Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes in marinade for heat; start mild.
• Common Mistakes: Don't over-smoke—10-15 minutes is enough to avoid bitterness.

Variations on Chinese Tea-Smoked Chicken Skewers

• Veggie Addition: Thread with bell peppers or scallions for a yakitori-style twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix sriracha into the marinade for extra heat.
• Vegan Option: Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms—smoke similarly.
• Sweet Twist: Add pineapple chunks for a tropical fusion.
• Oven-Smoked: Bake at 350°F with liquid smoke if no wok.
• Duck Version: Use duck for a traditional tea-smoked twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I make tea-smoked chicken without a wok?

Use a large pot or smoker box; line with foil and follow the same smoking steps.

Is tea-smoking healthy?

It's a low-fat method that adds flavor without deep-frying, but monitor sodium from sauces.

Can I grill the skewers after smoking?

Yes! Smoke first for flavor, then grill briefly for char.

What tea is best for smoking?

Black tea like oolong or pu-erh; avoid flavored teas to prevent off-notes.

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Why You'll Love These Chinese Tea-Smoked Chicken Skewers

These easy Chinese tea-smoked chicken skewers are smoky, tender, and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors—a quick recipe that's impressive yet simple. Whether for a weeknight dinner or entertaining, the unique tea smoke sets them apart. Try them today and bring a taste of China to your table!

Share your smoky skewers in the comments. Happy cooking!