Sweet & Sticky Cola Braised Chicken (可樂雞翅)
Looking for a quick and flavour-packed chicken dish?
Coca Cola-braised chicken is an easy one-pot recipe that’s sweet, savoury, and irresistibly sticky.
The cola works magic, creating a caramelised glaze that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
Try it once, and you’ll want to make it again and again!
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About this recipe
What Is Cola Braised Chicken?
If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, Cola-braised chicken is a game-changer!
It might sound unusual, but using cola to braise meat is a popular technique in Chinese cooking.
The fizzy drink's sweetness enhances the savoury soy sauce, creating a beautifully caramelised glaze that coats each bite perfectly.
A Brief History of Cola Chicken
Coca Cola chicken originated in China, where home cooks discovered that cola not only adds sweetness but also helps tenderise the meat.
Over the years, this simple yet genius cooking hack has become a beloved dish across Asia and beyond.
Many families have their own variations, some adding star anise, ginger, or chilli for an extra kick.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Effortless One-Pot Recipe – Minimal ingredients and easy clean-up!
- Sweet & Savoury Perfection – The perfect balance of caramelised sweetness and umami.
- Quick to Make – Ready in under an hour with simple steps.
- Perfect with Rice – The sticky glaze pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken wings – for best results, use wings as they absorb the sauce well
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 slices of ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can of cola (250ml)
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1/2 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (optional)
- Spring onions for garnish
Pair it with
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel - this helps them brown better in the pan.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, ginger, and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant and the onions soften.
3. Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken wings to the pot and sear them on all sides until golden brown. This helps lock in the flavour.
4. Add the Sauce
Pour in the cola, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and Chinese cooking wine (if using). Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer Until Caramelised
Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will reduce into a rich, sticky glaze.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the glossy sauce, transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot!
FAQs
1. Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of wings like you have?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with drumsticks, thighs, or even boneless chicken pieces.
Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
2. Do I have to use Coca Cola, or can I substitute another soda?
Coca Cola gives a unique sweetness and caramelisation, but other colas or even root beer can work as substitutes.
Avoid diet sodas, as they won’t provide the same flavour or texture.
3. Is Chinese cooking wine necessary?
Chinese cooking wine enhances the flavour, but it’s optional.
If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with a splash of dry sherry or leave it out entirely. The dish will still be delicious!
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, this cola braised chicken is great for meal prep! Make it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
The flavours develop even more over time, making it extra tasty the next day.
5. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce.
Double-check that the Coca Cola or soda you use is also gluten-free, as some colas may contain gluten-based flavourings.
6. What can I serve with Coca Cola braised chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables like pak choi, broccoli, or green beans.
The sweet, sticky glaze also complements a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
7. How long will leftovers keep?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain the sauce’s texture.
Video demonstration
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