Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a perfect blend of crispy and spicy? Our Crispy Chilli Chicken recipe is here to transform your dinner table into a feast of flavors. With a crispy coating and a savory, spicy sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit. Read on to discover the secrets to making this irresistible dish at home.

What is Crispy Chilli Chicken?

Crispy Chilli Chicken is a popular Indo-Chinese dish known for its crispy texture and spicy, tangy flavors. It features bite-sized pieces of chicken that are marinated, coated in a light batter, fried until golden brown, and then tossed in a flavorful stir-fry sauce. This dish combines the best of both Chinese and Indian culinary traditions, offering a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy notes.

Ingredients List for Crispy Chilli Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 300 g Chicken Breast
• 100 g Cornflour (add more if needed, see notes)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic and Ginger Paste
• 1 Egg White
• 2 Spring Onions
• Vegetable Oil (for frying)

Chicken Marinade:

• 2 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Garlic and Ginger Paste
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 1 teaspoon White Pepper

Stir Fry Sauce:

• 3 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce
• 4 tablespoon Honey
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• 2 tablespoon Lemon Juice

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

• Chicken Breast: You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• Cornflour: Potato starch can be used as an alternative.
• Dark Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce or tamari can be used for a slightly different flavor.
• Sriracha: Any hot sauce of your choice can be used.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar are good substitutes.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with paneer or tofu.
• Gluten-Free Version: Ensure all sauces are gluten-free and use a gluten-free flour for coating.
• Extra Crunch: Add some crushed nuts like cashews or peanuts for additional texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Crispy Chilli Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoon dark soy sauce, 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon white pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Mix well to coat each piece. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. Egg White Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk 1 egg white until slightly frothy.
2. Cornflour Coating: Place 100 g of cornflour in a shallow dish.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Dip in Egg White: Dip each marinated chicken piece in the egg white.
2. Coat with Cornflour: Roll the chicken pieces in the cornflour until fully coated. Ensure an even coating for maximum crispiness.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the Chicken: Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy. This should take about 4-5 minutes per batch. Do not overcrowd the pan.
3. Drain the Chicken: Remove the fried chicken and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoon dark soy sauce, 4 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon sriracha, and 2 tablespoon lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.

Step 6: Stir Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the Pan: In a large wok or skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add Aromatics: Add 1 teaspoon garlic and ginger paste and sauté until fragrant.
3. Toss the Chicken: Add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat with the garlic and ginger.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the stir fry sauce over the chicken and stir well to coat each piece. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened and clings to the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Not Marinating Long Enough: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for better flavor infusion.
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy chicken.
• Skipping the Cornflour Coating: The cornflour is essential for that crispy exterior.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Crispy Chilli Chicken

• Serve Hot: Crispy Chilli Chicken is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
• Accompaniments: Serve with steamed rice or noodles to balance the spicy flavors.
• Garnish: Garnish with chopped spring onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

Presentation Ideas for Crispy Chilli Chicken

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the chicken pieces on a large serving platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and sprinkle with garnishes.
• Individual Plates: Serve in individual portions with a side of rice or noodles, neatly garnished with spring onions.
• Family Style: Serve the chicken in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves.

Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe Tips

• Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Fry the chicken pieces twice for an even crunchier texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spring onions enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of sriracha according to your heat preference.
• Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time for quicker assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast? A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier texture.

Q: How can I make this dish less spicy? A: Reduce the amount of sriracha or use a milder hot sauce.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? A: Yes, bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: What can I use instead of cornflour? A: Potato starch or rice flour can be used as a substitute.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Chilli Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds – crispy texture and bold, spicy flavors. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow our step-by-step guide and tips to create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Try it today and elevate your culinary skills to a new level!

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