At the table
Mix the chicken shreds and cucumber with the dressing, then take small bites. To request less chili oil, say 少放辣椒油 (“Less chili oil, please”). Ask whether the dressing can be adjusted.
Contains chicken, sesame and soy sauce. Soy sauce or grain vinegar may contain wheat. Some other preparations use peanuts; ask about the full dressing if you have allergies. Bone-in versions need a check for small bones.
This version uses light soy sauce, Zhenjiang black vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, sesame seeds, chili oil, Sichuan pepper, salt and scallion in a dressing with reserved chicken-poaching liquid. Ginger scents the poaching water. Chili heat depends on the oil and amount, rather than Sichuan pepper’s tingling.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Chicken cuts and sauce balance vary. This cucumber-based version uses sesame oil and sesame seeds; sesame-paste dressings are other preparations.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory, sweet-tangy and chili-hot, with sesame aroma.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Tender shredded chicken and crisp cucumber strips.
- How it’s made
- Poach chicken, loosen and shred the meat, then dress with the sauce.
Chicken cuts and sauce balance vary. This cucumber-based version uses sesame oil and sesame seeds; sesame-paste dressings are other preparations.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Sichuan.
About this regional connection
Sichuan: Part of the Sichuan cooking repertoire.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有棒棒鸡吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Named for the wooden stick
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
棒 (bang) refers to the wooden stick used to loosen cooked chicken before shredding. Gentle tapping separates the fibres so dressing clings to the meat. In this cucumber-based version, sesame fragrance, chili oil and vinegar give the cooled, cooked chicken its savory, sweet-sour bite.