Asian Chilli Chicken: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Asian Chilli Chicken: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will ignite your taste buds! Imagine succulent pieces of chicken, coated in a vibrant, sweet, and spicy sauce that’s guaranteed to leave you craving more. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavour explosion that brings the best of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen.

The beauty of Asian Chilli Chicken lies in its versatility and the harmonious blend of flavours. While its exact origins are debated, similar dishes have been enjoyed across various Asian cultures for generations, often adapted to local ingredients and preferences. Think of the fiery Sichuan cuisine of China or the sweet and tangy sauces of Southeast Asia – this dish draws inspiration from them all.

What makes this recipe so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the sauce provides a delightful sticky glaze that clings to every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this Asian Chilli Chicken recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavours that will have everyone asking for seconds!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3-4 cups)
• For the Sauce:
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 2-3 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 green onions, chopped, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, egg, cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated. Make sure every piece gets a good coating of the dry ingredients. This will help them get nice and crispy when fried.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the chicken pieces. You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of batter into it; if it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, or the oil temperature will drop, and the chicken won’t get as crispy.
3. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the fried chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Making the Asian Chilli Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, cornstarch, and chicken broth. Set aside. This is your sauce base, and the cornstarch will help thicken it up beautifully.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the chopped red chilies and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the peppers are slightly softened. The chilies will infuse the oil with their heat, so adjust the amount to your liking.
4. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.

Combining Chicken and Sauce:

1. Add the fried chicken to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every piece of chicken is glistening with that delicious chilli sauce.
2. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce and heat through.

Serving:

1. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
2. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the chicken is still crispy and the sauce is vibrant.

Tips for the Best Asian Chilli Chicken:

• Chicken Quality: Using high-quality chicken thighs will result in a more tender and flavorful dish.
• Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy chicken. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in less crispy chicken.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chilies to your desired spice level. You can also use chili flakes or chili paste for a different flavor profile.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic, ginger, and chilies will enhance the flavor of the sauce.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, cook it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before adding the fried chicken.
• Crispy Chicken Tip: For extra crispy chicken, you can double-fry it. After the first frying, let the chicken cool slightly, then fry it again for another 1-2 minutes.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or other vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave. The chicken may not be as crispy after reheating, but it will still be delicious.

Variations:

• Spicy Level: For a milder version, reduce the amount of red chilies or remove the seeds before chopping. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess water before coating and frying.
• Pineapple: Add pineapple chunks to the sauce for a sweet and sour twist.
• Cashews: Add roasted cashews to the dish for extra crunch and flavor.
• Different Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables, such as carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms.

Enjoy your homemade Asian Chilli Chicken!

Conclusion:

This Asian Chilli Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen to the satisfyingly spicy and savory taste, this dish is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. I truly believe you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a restaurant-quality meal right in your own home.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, all wrapped up in tender, juicy chicken. The vibrant sauce clings beautifully to the chicken pieces, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adjust the level of spice to suit your own preferences. If you’re not a fan of intense heat, simply reduce the amount of chili flakes or sriracha. On the other hand, if you’re a spice enthusiast like me, feel free to add even more!

But the deliciousness doesn’t stop there! Think of all the ways you can serve this incredible Asian Chilli Chicken. For a classic pairing, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice. The rice soaks up all that delicious sauce, creating a truly satisfying and comforting meal. Alternatively, you could try serving it with noodles – egg noodles, udon noodles, or even soba noodles would all work beautifully.

Looking for some side dish inspiration? Steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple Asian slaw would all complement the chicken perfectly. For a more substantial meal, consider adding some edamame or a side of spring rolls.

And let’s not forget about variations! If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try adding some pineapple chunks to the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist. Or, for a richer flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. You could even use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option! Simply press the tofu to remove excess water, then cube it and pan-fry it until golden brown before adding it to the sauce.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Asian Chilli Chicken for yourself. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll be whipping it up on a regular basis.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how you made the recipe your own, what variations you tried, and what your family thought of it. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking! I am confident that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.