At Shalimar Phuket, our menu celebrates the best of Asian comfort food, and few dishes capture that essence better than our chicken bao. These soft, pillowy buns filled with juicy chicken are a perfect blend of texture, taste, and aroma. Originally from China but loved across Asia, bao buns have found a special place in modern dining — from street food stalls to fine-dining restaurants like ours.
Our chicken bao recipe combines traditional techniques with a hint of local flavor, giving you a dish that’s both authentic and uniquely Phuket-inspired.
The Story Behind the Bao
The origins of bao go back thousands of years to ancient China. The word “bao” simply means “bun”, and legend says it was first created during the Three Kingdoms period. Over time, bao spread throughout Asia, with each region adding its own twist.
In Thailand and across Southeast Asia, the fluffy steamed buns evolved into both sweet and savory versions — often filled with pork, vegetables, or chicken. At Shalimar Phuket, we bring that heritage to life through our bao recipe chicken, offering a perfectly balanced filling that’s rich, savory, and irresistibly tender.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Bao
Creating the perfect chicken bao buns starts with two essential parts: the soft bun and the flavorful filling. Here’s what you’ll need to make them at home:
For the Bao Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Chicken Filling:
- 250g boneless chicken thighs, chopped finely
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)
- 1 tablespoon spring onions, chopped
This combination creates the foundation of a truly authentic bao chicken experience — soft on the outside, flavorful on the inside, and perfectly balanced.
How to Make Chicken Bao
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and baking powder. Slowly add warm milk and oil while kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for about an hour until it doubles in size. This resting time ensures the signature fluffy texture of chicken bao buns.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Filling
Heat a small amount of oil in a pan and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Finish by adding chopped spring onions for freshness.
Step 3: Assemble and Steam
Divide the dough into small balls, flatten each one, and spoon the chicken filling in the center. Seal the edges carefully and place the buns on parchment paper squares. Steam for 10–12 minutes until they puff up beautifully. The result is soft, glossy buns that release a savory aroma when opened — just like the ones served at Shalimar Phuket
The beauty of chicken bao lies in its versatility. It’s a dish that transcends borders — loved in China, Japan, Korea, and now Thailand. At Shalimar Phuket, we draw inspiration from different Asian traditions while maintaining our local touch. One of our customer favorites is the Korean chicken bao, featuring spicy gochujang-marinated chicken with pickled cucumbers and sesame seeds — a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
This fusion enhances the flavor and reflects Phuket’s diverse culinary culture, where global cuisines meet tropical ingredients. If you want to explore more recipes of Thai and Indian food, please visit our other blog, Saagar Phuket.
Tips from Our Chefs
To ensure your bao recipe chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some professional tips from our Shalimar Phuket chefs:
- Knead patiently: A smooth, elastic dough is key to getting that soft, airy texture.
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the bao to break while steaming.
- Use parchment paper: It prevents the buns from sticking to the steamer.
- Serve warm: Bao are best enjoyed fresh and soft, straight out of the steamer.
- Experiment with flavors: Try Thai basil, sweet chili, or lemongrass for a local Phuket twist.
These small details make all the difference when creating that restaurant-quality bao chicken at home.
Variations to Explore
While our signature chicken bao recipe remains a favorite, there are endless variations to explore:
- Korean Chicken Bao: Filled with spicy chicken, kimchi, and sesame mayo — a bold and flavorful twist.
- Thai-Inspired Chicken Bao: With lemongrass, chili, and coriander for a tropical aroma.
- Classic Steamed Chicken Bao: Mildly seasoned and perfect for those who enjoy a simple, comforting taste.
Each version tells a story of regional flavor and creativity, proving why bao buns have become an international sensation.
Why Chicken Bao is Loved Worldwide
Part of the charm of bao lies in its simplicity — a soft bun that melts in your mouth, filled with warm, savory goodness. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, chicken bao buns fit every occasion. Their balance of textures and flavors makes them both comforting and elegant.
At Shalimar Phuket, we craft each bao by hand, ensuring every bite delivers the same joy and satisfaction that made this dish famous across Asia. It’s not just food — it’s an experience, a story wrapped in a bun.