If you’ve ever enjoyed dim sum, you’ve likely spotted this delicacy—chicken feet—braised in a glossy, flavorful sauce. This chicken feet recipe transforms an often-overlooked ingredient into a tender, mouthwatering dish bursting with umami. Popular across Asia, chicken feet are slow-cooked until the skin and tendons become soft and gelatinous, absorbing every bit of the sauce’s deep flavor. Besides being delicious, they’re also rich in collagen, which promotes skin and joint health. Whether you’re exploring authentic Asian cuisine or looking for a new comfort dish, this recipe will walk you through every step.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken feet, cleaned and nails trimmed
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color and richness)
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or rock sugar)
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for spice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken feet:
Clean the feet thoroughly, removing outer skin or calluses. Trim the claws using kitchen shears. - Blanch the chicken feet:
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add chicken feet and blanch for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse with cold water. - Fry for better texture (optional):
For a restaurant-style chewy texture, deep-fry the blanched feet until slightly golden, then soak in cold water for 2 hours. This helps them puff up and become extra tender when braised. - Sauté aromatics:
Heat oil in a large pan or wok. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. - Add seasonings:
Stir in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and five-spice powder. Mix well. - Simmer:
Add the chicken feet and toss to coat evenly. Pour in chicken broth and add star anise. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 1 hour, or until the feet become soft and gelatinous. - Reduce the sauce:
Uncover and simmer for another 10 minutes to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency. - Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions and sliced chili. Enjoy hot!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Tips & Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add chili paste or extra red chilies for heat.
- Sweet Soy Version: Mix in a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for sweetness.
- Dim Sum Style: Deep-fry, soak, then braise for the classic “phoenix claws” texture found in Chinese restaurants.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours for fall-apart tenderness.
- Healthy Option: Skip frying and stick to boiling and simmering for fewer calories.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as part of a dim sum spread alongside dumplings and steamed buns.
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice or congee for a comforting meal.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or chili oil for extra flair.
- Enjoy as a snack or appetizer with a cold drink or tea.
FAQs
1. Are chicken feet healthy to eat?
Yes! Chicken feet are high in collagen, which supports joint and skin health. They’re also rich in protein and low in carbs.
2. How do I clean chicken feet properly?
Trim off the nails, remove any outer yellow skin, and rinse thoroughly before cooking. Blanching helps clean and soften them.
3. Can I make this without soy sauce?
You can substitute coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free version while maintaining rich flavor.
4. How long do cooked chicken feet last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
This chicken feet recipe brings authentic Asian comfort to your kitchen. Braised to perfection in a savory sauce, the feet become tender, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Whether you serve them for dim sum or a cozy family meal, this dish will surprise and delight anyone willing to try it. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
