Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share my favourite 20-minute recipe for crispy chilli chicken. It’s a quick dinner that’s full of flavour. You and your family will love it.
The dish features crispy shredded chicken in a spicy, tangy sauce. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you’re short on time. Don’t worry, these easy recipes will make you feel like a pro chef, no matter your experience!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Crispy Chilli Chicken
Crispy chilli chicken is a favourite in Asian cuisine, loved for its crunchy texture and spicy kick. It comes from Chinese cooking, blending fried chicken with a zesty, fiery sauce. Each bite is a flavour explosion, making it a great choice for any meal.
Even on busy weeknights, you don’t have to settle for bland food. This quick recipe makes dinner easy without losing flavour. Imagine having crispy chilli chicken ready in just 20 minutes! It’s the perfect mix of speed and taste.
This dish is a hit with family and friends alike. Why not put your own twist on it? Cooking becomes more fun when you explore new flavours.
Ingredients for a Quick Meal
Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for making crispy chicken that’s full of flavour. I’ve gathered a list of fresh ingredients and pantry staples to help you cook this dish quickly. These will make your cooking experience better.
Fresh Ingredients Needed
- Chicken breast or thigh fillets: 500g, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Spring onions: Freshly sliced for garnish and added flavour.
- Garlic and ginger: Minced to create a fragrant base for the sauce.
- Red chillies: Fresh, for an authentic spicy kick!
Essential Pantry Staples
Along with these fresh ingredients, having these pantry staples will simplify your cooking:
- Cornstarch: To achieve that delightful crispiness when frying the chicken.
- Soy sauce: For marinating the chicken and adding umami flavour.
- Sesame oil: Adds an aromatic layer to the dish.
- Sugar: To balance out the heat from the chillies.
Having these ingredients and pantry staples ready will make your cooking faster and more enjoyable. You’ll create a meal to be proud of. For more tips on efficient cooking, check out this guide on home cooking.
Preparation: Getting Ready for Cooking
Getting ready to cook is essential for a smooth experience. Begin by marinating the chicken in soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger for about 10 minutes. This step adds amazing flavour and keeps the chicken juicy.
Then, mix cornstarch and sesame oil in a bowl to create your coating. This mix will give your chicken that crispy edge when fried. Organising your ingredients makes cooking more efficient!
Remember to chop chillies and spring onions before you start. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and fun!
Cooking Method: How to Make Crispy Chilli Chicken
Let’s explore how to make a tasty crispy chilli chicken recipe. It’s sure to please your taste buds! Follow these step-by-step cooking tips, and you’ll make it in no time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or frying pan until hot.
- Coat marinated chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Drain on kitchen paper to remove excess oil.
- In the same pan, briefly stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and chilli, then add cooked chicken to combine everything nicely.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Crispiness
Want to avoid soggy chicken? Here are my top tips for crispiness:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken. A temperature of 180°C (350°F) is ideal!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps maintain heat, ensuring even cooking.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and enhance that lovely crunch!
Variations of Crispy Chilli Chicken
Trying different versions of crispy chilli chicken can make your meals more exciting. You might want something sweet or a richer taste. These changes can make your meal even better.
Adding Sweetness with Honey Chicken
Want a sweet twist? Try adding honey to your recipe! Mix honey and soy sauce equally for a sticky glaze. This sweet touch makes your crispy chilli chicken a treat for those who love sweet dishes.
Crispy Chicken Cantonese Style
Seeking a richer taste? Go for crispy chicken Cantonese style! Use fermented black beans and oyster sauce for a unique flavour. This adds a savoury depth, taking your dish to Cantonese cuisine levels. It’s a great way to make your crispy chilli chicken unforgettable!
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Chilli Chicken
How you serve your crispy chilli chicken can make a big difference. A well-presented dish not only tastes great but also looks amazing. Here are some serving ideas to try:
- Place the crispy chicken on a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavours.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh spring onions and sliced chillies for a vibrant garnish.
- For extra texture, drizzle some sesame seeds over the top for a crunchy bite.
These ideas will not only make the dish better but also wow your guests. Enjoy the fun of serving crispy chicken.
Pairs Well with: Side Dishes to Consider
Choosing the right side dishes can make your crispy chilli chicken meal even better! A mix of Asian sides and other accompaniments for chicken adds balance and variety. This makes the meal more enjoyable.
Complementary Asian Sides
Pair your dish with crispy vegetable spring rolls or a refreshing Asian salad with sesame dressing. These options match the chicken’s flavours and add lightness. They let the chicken be the star! You can find creative side dish ideas that bring these vibrant flavours to your table.
Rice and Noodle Options
For your base, try steamed jasmine or basmati rice. It’s fluffy and complements the crispy chicken well. These rice options are a comforting choice. Or, add some noodles for extra heartiness. Stir-fried noodles are a great match with the crispy chicken!
| Side Dish | Type | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls | Appetiser | Serve with sweet chilli dipping sauce |
| Asian Salad | Salad | Top with sesame dressing |
| Steamed Basmati Rice | Starch | Fluff with a fork, serve warm |
| Stir-fried Noodles | Main | Mix with vegetables and soy sauce |
Healthier Alternatives to Fried Chicken
Want to enjoy Crispy Chilli Chicken without the guilt? Try some delicious baked chicken options! Baking keeps the crunch but uses less oil, making it a top healthier option.
Baked Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe
For a tasty alternative, try baking. Coat chicken with cornstarch, spray with oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes. This method keeps the chicken crispy and cuts down on fat!
Using Alternative Proteins
Looking for plant-based meals? Use alternative proteins like tofu or tempeh! These options soak up flavours well, making them great for healthy dishes. Just marinate and cook them like chicken for a fulfilling meal.
Crispy Chilli Chicken in Chinese Cuisine
Crispy Chilli Chicken is a favourite in Chinese cuisine. It’s known for its bold flavours and crispy texture. This dish is a hit in many Chinese takeaways, thanks to the art of wok-frying.
The making of Crispy Chilli Chicken is a careful process. It involves marinating, frying, and glazing the chicken. This creates a dish that’s both tasty and visually appealing.
The cultural significance of Crispy Chilli Chicken is profound. It showcases the vibrant culinary techniques of Chinese cooking. It also connects us to the social and cultural practices of communities.
Trying to make this dish yourself? You can find a detailed recipe here. Each bite is a journey through flavours and a celebration of culinary tradition.
Crispy Chilli Chicken
Equipment
- Large wok or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade:
- 500 g chicken breast or thigh fillets cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp minced ginger
- Crispy Coating:
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 tsp red chili flakes adjust to taste
- Vegetables & Garnishes:
- 2 fresh red chillies sliced
- 3 spring onions sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds optional
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and sesame oil. Coat marinated chicken pieces in the mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy (about 4-5 minutes per batch). Remove and drain on kitchen paper.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, stir-fry garlic, ginger, and red chillies for 30 seconds. Add the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and chili flakes) and stir until combined.
- Combine & Serve: Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until well coated. Garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
FAQs About Making Crispy Chilli Chicken
What is the trick to getting crispy chicken?
The key to crispy chicken is drying the skin before cooking. Pat it dry with a paper towel, then season it well. Cooking at high heat (like frying or roasting at 425°F) helps crisp up the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
How do Chinese get their chicken so crispy?
Chinese-style crispy chicken often uses cornstarch or rice flour instead of regular flour. Double frying at different temperatures also helps—first at a lower heat to cook the chicken, then at a higher heat to crisp it up.
How do restaurants get their chicken so crispy?
Many restaurants brine the chicken first, which keeps it juicy. They also use buttermilk marinades, cornstarch coatings, and deep frying at the perfect temperature to get that crispy, golden crust.
What to have with crispy chili chicken?
Serve it with fried rice, noodles, or a fresh cucumber salad. It also goes great with garlic naan, steamed veggies, or a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
What is the secret ingredient for crispy fried chicken?
Cornstarch! Mixing cornstarch with flour makes the coating extra crispy. Some also swear by baking powder, which helps create little air pockets for a crunchier texture.
How does Jamie Oliver make his chicken crispy?
Jamie Oliver often uses a mix of flour and polenta (cornmeal) for extra crunch. He also recommends seasoning well, using high heat, and cooking in a hot pan or oven for the perfect crispy finish.