If you’re searching for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, look no further than this Cantonese Chestnut, Chicken, and Shiitake Stew Recipe. It brilliantly marries tender chicken thighs with earthy shiitake mushrooms and sweet roasted chestnuts, all simmered in a luscious sauce of soy, oyster sauce, and a hint of Shaoxing wine. This stew is a beautiful example of Cantonese home cooking—simple, nourishing, and packed with flavor that truly develops overnight. Once you try it, this dish will quickly earn a beloved spot in your recipe rotation.

Cantonese Chestnut, Chicken, and Shiitake Stew Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this hearty stew. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the fragrant aromatics to the umami-rich sauces.

Boneless skin-on chicken thighs: These juicy pieces stay tender and moist through slow cooking, offering the perfect protein base.
Dried shiitake mushrooms: Rehydrated overnight, they add a deep woodsy and savory note that defines this stew.
Roasted and peeled chestnuts: Naturally sweet and buttery, chestnuts create delightful texture contrasts and subtle sweetness.
Oyster sauce: Brings rich umami and a hint of briny depth that balances the dish beautifully.
Light soy sauce: Adds saltiness along with bright savory tones without overpowering.
Dark soy sauce: For color and a touch of sweetness, it deepens the stew’s appearance and complexity.
Shaoxing wine: A traditional Chinese cooking wine, infusing the stew with subtle aromatic warmth.
Sugar: A small amount brightens flavors and balances salt and acidity.
Corn starch: Helps thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency that clings to every ingredient.
Ginger slices, garlic cloves, scallion sprigs, and shallots: These aromatics build the fragrant foundation that makes the stew irresistible.

How to Make Cantonese Chestnut, Chicken, and Shiitake Stew Recipe

Step 1: Marinate and Prepare Mushrooms

Start by cutting your chicken thighs into 2-inch cubes for even cooking. Toss the chicken in your marinade made from oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and corn starch. Pop it in the fridge to let all those flavors seep in overnight. At the same time, soak your dried shiitake mushrooms in fresh water inside the fridge to rehydrate them slowly; this gentle process preserves their deep umami charm and delivers the perfect bite.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

On cooking day, heat a large wok and stir fry the aromatic ginger, garlic, scallions, and shallots. As their scents start to fill your kitchen, you’ll know you’re on the right track. These aromatics set the flavor base for the entire stew, releasing essential oils that blend seamlessly with the chicken and mushrooms.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Once your aromatics are gloriously fragrant, add the marinated chicken pieces to the wok. Quick stir-frying over high heat seals in juiciness by developing a light golden crust, which adds depth of flavor and appealing texture.

Step 4: Combine Mushrooms, Chestnuts, and Liquids

Next, pour in the shiitake soaking liquid—it’s brimming with concentrated mushroom flavor—along with the rehydrated mushrooms and those sweet roasted chestnuts. This step is where the stew truly comes together, showcasing the perfect harmony of earthiness and sweetness.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Cover the wok and let everything simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking lets the chicken become incredibly tender while the sauce thickens and flavors meld into a rich, silky stew. Adjust the seasoning as desired, tasting for balance to ensure every spoonful sings.

How to Serve Cantonese Chestnut, Chicken, and Shiitake Stew Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely sliced scallions or fresh cilantro adds a fresh pop of color and crispness that contrasts beautifully with the silky stew. If you enjoy a little heat, a few slivers of fresh chili can give the dish a pleasant kick without overwhelming the delicate components.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the savory sauce perfectly. For a green accompaniment, lightly sautéed bok choy or garlic spinach will add a nice textural contrast and brighten the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cantonese Chestnut, Chicken, and Shiitake Stew Recipe family-style in a rustic clay pot to keep it warm and add visual charm. For dinner parties, portion it into individual mini casseroles or elegant bowls, garnished thoughtfully to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because the flavors intensify overnight, leftovers of this stew taste even better the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy weekday meals.

Freezing

You can freeze the stew to enjoy later by placing portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It keeps well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve freshness and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid overheating which can toughen the chicken or dry out the chestnuts. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

While chicken breast can work, boneless skin-on thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor. Breast meat can dry out during the long simmer, so if using breast, monitor cooking time closely.

Where can I find dried shiitake mushrooms?

Dried shiitake mushrooms are widely available in Asian grocery stores and many well-stocked supermarkets. Look for ones with thick caps and avoid overly shriveled mushrooms for the best texture.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

Marinating overnight maximizes flavor absorption and tenderizes the meat, resulting in a richer stew. If short on time, marinate for at least one hour, but the longer, the better.

Can I substitute fresh chestnuts for roasted chestnuts?

Fresh chestnuts require roasting and peeling before use, which can be time-consuming. Pre-roasted and peeled chestnuts save steps and provide consistent sweetness, making them the preferred choice for this recipe.

How spicy is this stew?

This stew is traditionally mild, focusing on savory and sweet flavors rather than heat. However, if you like spice, you can always customize by adding chili peppers or chili oil during cooking or at the table.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a dish that invites you in with deep, comforting flavors and brings people together around the table. Give this Cantonese Chestnut, Chicken, and Shiitake Stew Recipe a try—you’ll quickly appreciate how a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience can create a stew that feels like a treasured homemade classic. Once it’s on your dinner rotation, it just might become one of your all-time favorites.

Cantonese Chestnut, Chicken, and Shiitake Stew Recipe