If you love bold flavors paired with irresistible crunch, then the Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe will quickly become your new favorite go-to dish. This recipe is all about achieving that perfect balance between spicy, sweet, and savory, enveloping tender chicken strips in a gloriously crisp coating before they’re tossed in a sticky, tangy sauce. It’s a fantastic homemade take on a classic that delights the senses with every bite and is surprisingly simple to whip up in just about 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe is a breeze because each one plays an essential role in delivering the dish’s amazing flavor, texture, and vibrant appearance. From the tender chicken breast that soaks up the marinade to the honey that adds a touch of natural sweetness, every component counts.
- Chicken Breast (300g): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Egg White (1): Helps the cornflour adhere perfectly to the chicken strips.
- Cornflour (100g): The secret to that irresistible crunchy coating—add more if you want extra crispiness.
- Vegetable Oil: For deep frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- Spring Onions (2, chopped): Adds a fresh, mild crunch to garnish at the end.
- Dark Soy Sauce (2 tbsp + 3 tbsp): Provides depth of flavor and umami throughout marination and sauce.
- Garlic and Ginger Paste (1 tbsp + 1 tbsp): The aromatic backbone of the marinade and sauce.
- Sesame Oil (1 tsp): Adds a subtle nuttiness for complexity.
- Sugar (1 tsp): Balances out savory elements perfectly.
- White Pepper (1 tsp): Delivers a gentle heat that complements the chilli.
- Honey (4 tbsp): Brings a luscious sweetness to the sticky sauce.
- Sriracha (1 tbsp): Infuses a smoky, spicy kick.
- Lemon Juice (2 tbsp): Brightens and lifts the entire flavor profile with acidity.
How to Make Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breast into thin, even strips. This not only allows the marinade to penetrate better but also helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly so you get that perfect crispy texture.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken strips with 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of garlic and ginger paste, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of white pepper. Mix everything thoroughly, then let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes to soak up those bold, savory flavors that will make each bite unforgettable.
Step 3: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together 3 tablespoons of dark soy sauce, 4 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of sriracha, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice in a small bowl. Set this vibrant, tangy sauce aside because it’s going to take your crispy chicken to the next level.
Step 4: Batter the Chicken
Now add the egg white to the marinated chicken, mixing well to coat the pieces. Sprinkle in 100 grams of cornflour, tossing everything so every chicken strip is evenly covered. If needed, dust on a bit more cornflour to ensure that signature crunch once fried.
Step 5: First Fry
Heat your vegetable oil in a wok or deep pan to about 180°C (356°F). Carefully add the battered chicken strips in small batches, frying for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re lightly golden but not fully cooked through. Remove them and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Double-Fry for Crispiness
Return the chicken to the hot oil for a second frying session. This 2 to 3-minute fry is what really locks in that irresistible crispiness and deep golden color. After frying, drain the chicken well, so every bite remains crunchy and delicious.
Step 7: Prepare the Sauce Base
In a clean pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and add 1 tablespoon of garlic and ginger paste. Sauté briefly for 5 to 10 seconds until fragrant—make sure not to burn it as that would affect the sauce’s flavor.
Step 8: Toss in Sauce
Pour the pre-mixed stir fry sauce into the fragrant base. Let it bubble gently for about 30 seconds to thicken slightly and marry all those beautiful flavors.
Step 9: Combine and Serve
Throw your crispy chicken strips into this bubbling sauce and toss vigorously to coat each piece with that glossy, sticky glaze. Take it off the heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped spring onions for a pop of color and freshness, then serve hot and enjoy every crunchy, spicy bite.
How to Serve Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe, fresh garnishes like chopped spring onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds work wonderfully. They add a lovely crunch and a burst of freshness that contrast beautifully with the sweet-spicy sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs superbly with fluffy steamed jasmine rice or simple fried rice to soak up the sauce. Alternatively, crispy fried noodles or even a light cucumber salad can add refreshing balance, making the entire meal more vibrant and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken on a platter lined with lettuce leaves and let everyone grab a handful for crispy lettuce wraps. Another idea is to pile the chicken over a bed of stir-fried vegetables for a colorful, restaurant-style presentation. Either way, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days, but be mindful that the crispiness may soften over time.
Freezing
This Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if necessary. Lay the cooked chicken strips on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing too much flavor.
Reheating
To bring back some of that original crisp, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 to 7 minutes rather than microwaving. This keeps the coating crunchy while warming the chicken through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra richness, but be sure to cut them into thin strips and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook thoroughly.
How spicy is the Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe?
The heat mainly comes from sriracha sauce balanced by honey and lemon juice, offering a mild to medium spiciness that can be adjusted up or down by tweaking the amount of sriracha.
Is cornflour necessary, or can I use regular flour?
Cornflour is preferred because it creates a lighter, crispier coating. Using regular flour will produce a denser crust, which might not give you that signature crunch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring your cornflour or corn starch is certified gluten-free, this recipe can be adapted to suit gluten sensitivities without compromising on texture or flavor.
What wine pairs well with Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe?
A crisp, slightly sweet white wine like Riesling or Gewürztraminer pairs wonderfully as it complements the sweetness and balances the spice of the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold, satisfying flavors into your kitchen without spending hours cooking. The combination of crunchy chicken and a tangy, spicy sauce makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing friends. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a staple you simply have to make again and again!
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Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Description
This Crispy Chilli Chicken recipe features tender chicken strips marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and spices, then double-fried to achieve an irresistibly crispy texture. Tossed in a tangy, sweet, and spicy chilli sauce with honey, sriracha, and lemon juice, this dish delivers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, garnished with fresh spring onions for a fresh finish. Ideal as a delicious appetizer or main course for fans of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 300g Chicken Breast (cut into thin strips)
- 2 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Garlic and Ginger Paste
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1 tsp White Pepper
Batter
- 1 Egg White
- 100g Cornflour (add more if needed)
- Vegetable Oil (for frying)
Stir Fry Sauce
- 3 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
- 4 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Sriracha
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tbsp Garlic and Ginger Paste
Garnish
- 2 Spring Onions (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into thin strips and set aside.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken strips in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp garlic and ginger paste, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp white pepper. Mix thoroughly and let marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Mix the Stir Fry Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine 3 tbsp dark soy sauce, 4 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp sriracha, and 2 tbsp lemon juice. Stir well and set aside for later use.
- Batter the Chicken: Add 1 egg white to the marinated chicken and mix well to coat. Then pour in 100g cornflour and mix again until each strip is coated evenly. Add more cornflour if necessary to ensure the chicken is well covered and ready for frying.
- First Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or frying pan to 180°C (356°F). Carefully add the coated chicken strips and fry them in batches for 1 to 2 minutes, or until lightly golden and just cooked. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Double-Fry for Crispiness: Return the partly fried chicken strips to the hot oil and fry again for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn extra crispy and golden brown. Drain well.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In a clean pan, heat 1 tbsp oil, then add 1 tbsp garlic and ginger paste. Sauté for 5 to 10 seconds until fragrant without burning.
- Toss in Sauce: Add the pre-mixed stir fry sauce to the pan and stir for about 30 seconds, letting it bubble and thicken slightly.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the crispy chicken into the thickened sauce and stir well to coat every piece. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped spring onions, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Double frying the chicken ensures an extra crispy texture that holds well when coated with sauce.
- Maintain oil temperature around 180°C to avoid greasy chicken and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the Sriracha amount based on your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh chicken breast for the best texture and flavor.
- Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil before tossing in sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
