If you’ve ever savored the crispy, flavorful bites of Chinese fried chicken from your favorite takeout spot, you might wonder how to recreate that deliciousness in your kitchen. Well, you’re in luck! This easy Chinese fried chicken recipe brings the authentic taste of this beloved dish right to your dining table without the need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, we’ll share some creative ideas to elevate your meal even further!
Chinese Fried Chicken Recipe Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 pound of chicken (thighs or drumsticks work best)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup cold water (adjust as needed)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cleaning your chicken pieces and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and results in a crispier coating.
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice wine, five-spice powder, salt, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until well blended.
- Marinate: Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring every piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for even more flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add Water: Gradually add cold water to the dry mixture until you achieve a thick, batter-like consistency. The batter should coat the back of a spoon but not be too runny.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or wok, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if it’s hot enough, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each piece of marinated chicken, shake off excess marinade, and dip it into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Fry: Carefully place the battered chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drain: Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your crispy Chinese fried chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauce—sweet and sour, hoisin, or a spicy chili sauce works wonderfully. Pair it with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Creative Ideas to Elevate Your Dish
1. Flavor Infusions
Experiment with different marinades! Add ingredients like sriracha for heat, honey for sweetness, or citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Try marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
2. Unique Coating Options
For a twist on the classic, consider adding crushed rice crackers or panko bread crumbs to your coating for an extra crunch. You can also substitute part of the flour with ground almonds or coconut for a nutty flavor.
3. Dip It Up
Create a dipping station with various sauces! Alongside the classic sweet and sour sauce, consider offering:
- Spicy Garlic Sauce: Sauté minced garlic in oil, add soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar, and finish with chili flakes.
- Honey Soy Glaze: Combine honey, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil for a sticky, sweet glaze.
- Creamy Peanut Sauce: Blend peanut butter, soy sauce, and a bit of lime juice for a rich, creamy dip.
4. Serve It with a Twist
Make your fried chicken the star of a fun dish:
- Chicken Rice Bowls: Serve your fried chicken over a bed of jasmine rice, topped with pickled vegetables, sliced cucumbers, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Tacos: Shred the fried chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing.
- Sandwiches: Make a crispy chicken sandwich with coleslaw and spicy mayo on a brioche bun for a delightful twist.
5. Sides that Complement
Round out your meal with some delicious sides that pair perfectly with your fried chicken:
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cook a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas in soy sauce and garlic for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Crispy Wontons: Serve some fried wontons or spring rolls as appetizers.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a sesame vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the meal.
6. Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider air-frying your chicken instead of deep-frying. Simply follow the same marinating and coating steps, then place the chicken in an air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Conclusion
With this easy Chinese fried chicken recipe, you can bring a taste of takeout right into your home kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. The creative ideas we’ve shared will help you personalize your dish and impress your guests. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some crispy, delicious homemade Chinese fried chicken! Happy cooking!