Crispy Chilli Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Chilli Chicken is a popular Indo-Chinese dish known for its crunchy texture, spicy-sweet flavor, and bold aroma. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish delivers a satisfying combination of deep-fried chicken tossed in a tangy, chili-infused sauce with bell peppers and onions. It’s a crowd-pleaser with just the right amount of heat and crunch.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

boneless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)cornstarchall-purpose floursoy saucevinegarchili sauceketchupgarlicgingergreen chiliesonionbell peppers (red and green)black peppersaltvegetable oilgreen onions (for garnish)

directions

In a bowl, marinate the chicken with soy sauce, salt, pepper, and a bit of vinegar for 20–30 minutes.

Add cornstarch and all-purpose flour to the marinated chicken and mix until well-coated.

Heat oil in a deep pan or wok and fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

In another pan, heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil and sauté chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies until fragrant.

Add diced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes to keep them slightly crunchy.

Add soy sauce, chili sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well.

Toss the fried chicken into the sauce and stir-fry on high heat until the chicken is well-coated.

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesMarination time: 20–30 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 55–65 minutes

Variations

Make it saucy by adding a splash of chicken stock or water mixed with a little cornstarch.

Use boneless tofu or paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.

Add a touch of honey for a sweet-spicy twist.

Include additional vegetables like carrots or baby corn for more crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispiness.Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crispy.

FAQs

What type of chicken is best?

Boneless thighs are preferred for juiciness, but breasts work well too.

Can I bake instead of deep-frying?

Yes, you can bake or air fry the chicken for a healthier alternative, though it may be slightly less crispy.

Is this dish very spicy?

It’s moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat by controlling the amount of chili sauce and green chilies.

Can I make it ahead?

You can prep the chicken and sauce separately, then combine just before serving.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil are ideal.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Toss the chicken in sauce just before serving and avoid over-saturating it.

Can I freeze it?

It’s not recommended to freeze once cooked, as it may lose crispiness when reheated.

Can I use egg in the batter?

Yes, adding an egg can help the coating stick better and make the chicken crispier.

What’s the best accompaniment?

Serve with fried rice, noodles, or steamed jasmine rice.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and flour alternatives to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

Crispy Chilli Chicken brings together bold flavors and irresistible texture in one vibrant dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a spicy treat, it’s the kind of recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to favorite for spicy comfort food.

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