Name: Crispy Chilli Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder; 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder; 1/2 cup water; 500 grams boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 onion (sliced); 1/2 red bell pepper (sliced); 1/2 green bell pepper (sliced); 2-3 green chilies (sliced); 1 tablespoon ginger (minced); 1 tablespoon garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup; 1 tablespoon chili sauce; 1 tablespoon vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Introduction to Crispy Chilli Chicken

Welcome, everybody, to my kitchen, and as we say, let the good smell taste your food. So today, I am more than happy to present to you the recipe for Crispy Chilli Chicken. This is not a meal; this is a whole wonderful feeling of heat and happiness on your table. This recipe is the answer whether you are a very busy mom with work and family or a career woman who just wants an impressive yet quickly prepared dish. It includes crispy chicken pieces that are coated with the flavorful spicy-tangy sauce –so it’s quite likely to be your next of kin’s favorite too. Let us both dive into this culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chilli Chicken

This Crispy Chilli Chicken is a legitimate savior for working days. Preps fast, about 50 minutes in total from A to Z. Crispy chicken and colorful veggies in hot chili sauce – addictive stuff. Totally kid-friendly – that you realize when serving the fussiest little eaters on the planet – after their plates vanish in minutes. All practical people adore something that turns everyday dinner into a mouthwatering aromatic feast!

Ingredients for Crispy Chilli Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering Crispy Chilli Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cornstarch: This gives the chicken its signature crunch. It’s a must for that crispy coating!
All-purpose flour: Combined with cornstarch, it helps create a light batter that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Baking powder: This little ingredient adds fluffiness to the batter, making the chicken even more delightful.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Garlic powder and ginger powder: These spices add depth and warmth, making every bite a flavor explosion.
Red chili powder: For those who love a kick, this spice brings the heat to the party!
Water: Used to create the batter, it helps achieve the perfect consistency.
Boneless chicken: The star of the show! Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy frying and eating.
Soy sauce: This adds a savory umami flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
Rice vinegar: A splash of tanginess that balances the dish perfectly.
Sesame oil: This fragrant oil adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
Sugar: Just a hint of sweetness to balance the spices and sauces.
Vegetable oil: For frying, it’s important to use an oil with a high smoke point.
Onion and bell peppers: These colorful veggies add crunch and freshness to the dish.
Green chilies: For those who like it spicy, these add an extra layer of heat.
Minced ginger and garlic: Fresh versions of these spices bring a vibrant flavor that’s hard to resist.
Tomato ketchup and chili sauce: These sauces create a deliciously tangy and spicy coating for the chicken.
Fresh coriander leaves: A lovely garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Crispy Chilli Chicken

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making Crispy Chilli Chicken! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.

Prepare the Batter

Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. In it, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red chili powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re well mixed. This is where the magic begins!

Next, gradually add water to the dry mixture. Stir continuously to form a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too runny. Once you have the right consistency, toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Make sure they’re evenly coated in that delicious batter!

Fry the Chicken

Heat a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil, enough to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the battered chicken pieces in a single layer. Fry them in batches if needed; overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy chicken.

Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to be golden brown and crispy. Once they’re done, remove the chicken from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy!

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Stir-fry these colorful veggies for about 2-3 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp—just like a rainbow on your plate!

Now, toss in the sliced green chilies, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic and ginger release their fragrant aroma. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Combine Chicken and Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, vinegar, and water. Pour this sauce mixture into the pan with the stir-fried vegetables. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Finally, add the fried chicken pieces back into the pan. Toss everything together until the chicken and vegetables are well coated in that spicy, tangy sauce. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and give it one last toss. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves just before serving. Your Crispy Chilli Chicken is ready to shine!

Tips for Success

For extra crunch, consider double frying the chicken pieces.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies to suit your taste.
Serve immediately for the best texture; it’s at its crispiest right out of the pan!
Don’t skip the paper towel step; it helps keep the chicken crispy.
Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

Equipment Needed

Large frying pan or wok: A non-stick skillet works too for easy frying.
Medium-sized bowl: Any mixing bowl will do for preparing the batter.
Whisk: A fork can also work in a pinch for mixing.
Paper towels: Essential for draining excess oil from the chicken.
Spatula or tongs: Handy for flipping and serving the chicken.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a delicious plant-based version.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to keep this dish gluten-free.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra kick.
Sweet and Sour: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the stir-fry for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing twist on the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed Rice: Serve your Crispy Chilli Chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
Fresh Salad: Pair it with a light cucumber and tomato salad to balance the flavors.
Chilled Drinks: Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to cool down the spice.
Presentation: Garnish with extra coriander leaves and sesame seeds for a beautiful finish.

FAQs about Crispy Chilli Chicken

Can I make Crispy Chilli Chicken ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat them separately before serving to maintain that crispy texture!

What can I serve with Crispy Chilli Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. A fresh salad on the side adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors beautifully.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the number of green chilies or omit the red chili powder. You can always add more spice later if desired!

Is Crispy Chilli Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. Reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy a quick and delicious meal.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and frying. This ensures even cooking and the best flavor!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Crispy Chilli Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching my family savor each bite, their faces lighting up with delight, is priceless. This dish brings a burst of flavor and warmth, making any ordinary day feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe is a go-to that never disappoints. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and may it bring as much happiness to your home as it does to mine!