Try This 5-Step Crispy Chilli Chicken Recipe Now

This dish features tender pieces of chicken that are coated in a seasoned batter and deep-fried to achieve a golden, crispy exterior. The fried chicken is then tossed in a vibrant sauce made from soy sauce, chili sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of vinegar, creating a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes. With added bell peppers and onions for extra crunch and flavor, Crispy Chilli Chicken is garnished with fresh spring onions and sesame seeds, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes. This dish is often enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

Crispy Chilli Chicken is a popular Indo-Chinese dish known for its spicy, tangy, and crispy coating. Here’s a simple recipe to make it at home:

1. Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

– 500 grams (1 lb) boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1 egg
– Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 2 green chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
– 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, green, or yellow)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chili sauce (adjust to taste)
– 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes:

– Spring onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped

2. Instructions

Step 1- Marinate the Chicken:

– In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, red chili powder, and salt.
– Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat well.
– Beat the egg and add it to the bowl, mixing until the chicken is well-coated.
– Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2- Fry the Chicken:

– Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat.
– Fry the marinated chicken in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 3- Prepare the Sauce:

– In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
– Add the sliced green chilies and bell pepper, cooking until slightly tender.
– Stir in the soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and sugar. Mix well.
– Pour in the water and bring to a simmer.
– Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4- Combine Chicken and Sauce:

– Add the crispy chicken pieces to the sauce and toss gently to coat the chicken with the sauce.

Step 5- Garnish and Serve:

– Garnish with chopped spring onions, sesame seeds (if using), and fresh cilantro.
– Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Chilli Chicken!