Crispy Chilli Chicken

Introduction

Crispy Chilli Chicken is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that combines crispy chicken pieces with a savory and spicy sauce. This dish is packed with bold flavors from the chili, soy sauce, and garlic, with a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the heat. The crispy texture of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the silky, flavorful sauce, making it an irresistible appetizer or main dish.

I first made this dish when I was in the mood for something spicy and flavorful, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. The combination of crispy chicken and the bold sauce is what makes this dish so addictive. It’s versatile too—you can serve it with rice, noodles, or just enjoy it on its own. If you like extra heat, you can always add more chili to kick it up a notch.

Whether you’re serving it at a party, for dinner, or just craving something spicy, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The flavors are bold, the texture is perfect, and it’s just the kind of dish that everyone will want to come back for more.

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Family dinners
• Spicy food lovers
• Special occasions
• Indo-Chinese cuisine fans

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chilli Chicken

Here’s why Crispy Chilli Chicken will become your go-to dish:

• Crispy and Tender Chicken: The crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch while staying juicy on the inside.
• Bold and Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, chili sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a flavorful sauce that’s sweet, savory, and spicy.
• Quick and Easy: While it may seem like a complex dish, it’s actually simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili to control the heat, making it as mild or as fiery as you like.
• Perfect for Sharing: This dish is perfect for sharing with friends or family, making it a great addition to any meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 22g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Chilli Chicken:

For the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup cornflour (cornstarch)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 3-4 green chilies, slit (adjust to desired spice level)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1-2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander or spring onions for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Cornflour: The cornflour helps create that signature crispiness on the chicken, making it extra crunchy and light.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the sauce and marinates the chicken.
• Chili Sauce & Green Chilies: Provides the heat and spice that make this dish so bold and flavorful.
• Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness and heat of the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crispy Chilli Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with cornflour, all-purpose flour, ginger-garlic paste, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the beaten egg and coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Heat Oil for Frying: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove from the oil and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Sauce:

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In another pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell pepper, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until they soften but still have a bit of crunch.
4. Add the Aromatics: Add the green chilies and ginger-garlic paste, and stir-fry for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Prepare the Sauce: Add soy sauce, chili sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and sugar. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a minute to combine.
6. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch-water mixture to the pan and stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 1-2 minutes. Adjust salt to taste.

Combine and Serve:

7. Add the Chicken: Once the sauce is ready, add the fried chicken pieces to the pan and toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped coriander or spring onions and serve immediately.

How to Serve Crispy Chilli Chicken

Crispy Chilli Chicken can be served in various ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve this dish on its own with a side of dipping sauce for an appetizer or snack.
• With Rice or Noodles: Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or fried noodles for a complete meal.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside other Indo-Chinese dishes like Fried Rice, Manchurian, or Spring Rolls for a full spread.
• With Drinks: This dish pairs wonderfully with cocktails, mocktails, or even a cold beer.

Additional Tips for Crispy Chilli Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure your Crispy Chilli Chicken is perfect every time:

• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying the chicken to ensure each piece gets crispy and doesn’t become soggy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and green chilies add a big punch of flavor to the dish.
• Adjust the Spice Level: You can control the heat by reducing the amount of green chilies or chili sauce used.
• Double Frying: For extra crispiness, you can double fry the chicken—fry it once, remove, and fry again for a minute or two.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the chicken is still crispy.

Recipe Variations for Crispy Chilli Chicken

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crispy Chilli Chicken:

• Honey Chilli Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweet-spicy flavor combination.
• Garlic Chilli Chicken: Increase the amount of garlic for an extra garlicky twist.
• Vegetarian Chilli Chicken: Use paneer or tofu in place of chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Chili Garlic Chicken: Add extra chili garlic sauce for a more intense garlic flavor.
• Mango Chilli Chicken: Add a tablespoon of mango chutney to the sauce for a fruity variation.
• Spicy BBQ Chilli Chicken: Mix in a tablespoon of barbecue sauce to create a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Chilli Chicken with Cashews: Add roasted cashews or peanuts for a crunchy, nutty twist.
• Chili Chicken with Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli to the dish for a healthier, veggie-packed version.
• Chili Lemon Chicken: Add lemon juice to the sauce for a citrusy kick.
• Chili Chicken with Pineapple: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast to the spicy flavors.

Freezing and Storage for Crispy Chilli Chicken

• Freezing: The fried chicken can be frozen before tossing in the sauce. To freeze, place the fried chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness and then toss in the sauce.
• Storage: Leftover Crispy Chilli Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. However, the chicken will lose some of its crispiness, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Special Equipment for Crispy Chilli Chicken

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crispy Chilli Chicken easier:

• Deep Fryer or Wok: For frying the chicken to a perfect crisp.
• Sauté Pan: To cook the sauce and stir-fry the vegetables.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
• Slotted Spoon: To remove fried chicken pieces from the oil without excess grease.
• Tongs: For flipping the chicken pieces during frying.
• Serving Platter: For a beautiful presentation when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crispy Chilli Chicken

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While the chicken can be fried ahead of time and stored, it’s best to toss it in the sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.
2. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breast?
   Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
3. Can I use a different type of chili sauce?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of chili sauce, such as sriracha or gochujang, depending on your preferred heat level.
4. Can I make this dish less spicy?
   Yes, reduce the amount of chili sauce or use milder green chilies to control the spice level.
5. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
   Baking the chicken can be an option for a lighter version, though it won’t have the same crispy texture as frying.

Print

Conclusion

Crispy Chilli Chicken is the ultimate fusion of flavors—crispy, spicy, savory, and a touch of sweetness—all in one dish. The golden, crispy chicken is coated in a mouthwatering sauce that’s bold, tangy, and packed with aromatic spices. Perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

Quick and easy to prepare, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or whenever you want to impress with something extra special. Whether paired with rice or enjoyed on its own, Crispy Chilli Chicken will surely become a regular on your menu.

I’d love to see how your Crispy Chilli Chicken turns out! Be sure to snap a pic, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your culinary masterpiece. Happy cooking!