Get ready for an explosion of flavor with Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken! Picture tender chicken pieces, crispy edges, and a tantalizing sweet and spicy sauce that will have your family asking for seconds. This recipe combines simple ingredients with quick preparation to bring the taste of the Indo-Chinese culinary scene right into your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Try This Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken Recipe?
Getting a restaurant-quality dish at home has never been easier! This Indochinese delight is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests without breaking a sweat.
If you’re looking for a dish that combines flavors, textures, and ease, then Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken is your answer. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something special. You’ll enjoy a fantastic balance of spicy and sweet flavors that resonates with Indo-Chinese cuisine and pairs well with rice or noodles. Try it alongside Mediterranean chicken skillet for an even more diverse dining experience.
What Ingredients Do You Need for Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken?
This simple yet flavorful dish can be made with a handful of ingredients that you may already have on hand!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs | 1 lb |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
| Egg White | 1 piece |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vegetable Oil | As needed |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic, minced | 2 tablespoons |
| Ginger, minced | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried Red Chilies or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 2-3 pieces |
| Tomato Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Chili Garlic Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar or Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Sliced Green Onions | To taste |
| Toasted Sesame Seeds | To taste |
| Thin Strips of Fried Onion or Bell Pepper | Optional |
Cornstarch is a key ingredient as it creates the crispy coating on the chicken, while the egg white further enhances the texture. The use of soy sauce and vinegar not only adds flavor but also provides umami. Considering health, swapping sugar with honey is a good alternative that also brings about a distinct flavor. If you are looking to make the dish lighter, using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts can provide more flavor and moisture. They’re rich in protein, keeping you fueled for the day.
How Do You Prepare Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken, Step by Step?
Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious result!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, egg white, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the chicken is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up all of that flavor.
Step 2: Partially Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Store | In an airtight container, up to 3 days |
| Nutritional Value (per serving) | Approximately 320 calories |
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the ketchup, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, vinegar, and sugar or honey. Stir well, and gradually add water to achieve desired sauce consistency. Bring to a simmer before adding the crispy chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly and heat through. Finally, garnish with Green onions, sesame seeds, and fried onions if desired.
What Makes This Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken Unique?
This version of Dragon Chicken packs a punch with its unique blend of spices and sauces!
Exceptional Texture
The use of cornstarch and egg white gives the chicken a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. This provides a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the sticky sauce.
Custom Sauce Blend
Rather than using a store-bought sauce, I’ve created a balanced homemade sauce featuring ketchup, soy sauce, and chili garlic sauce which allows you to control the heat and personal flavor preferences.
Flexible Spice Level
You can easily adjust the amount of red chilies or chili flakes based on your spice tolerance, making this dish accessible for everyone!
For detailed insights into various cooking techniques, check out this Wikipedia page on cooking techniques.
What Are Some Variations and Serving Suggestions?
Change up this dish to suit your tastes!
Diet Swap
If you are looking for a healthier option, consider using air-fried chicken or tofu instead of frying. This still provides a crispy texture without excess oil.
Flavor Variation
If you’re a fan of citrus, feel free to squeeze in some lime or lemon juice to add a fresh zing! You can also make it vegetarian by substituting vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. For more ideas on vegetarian options, check out this layered vegetable lasagna.
Serving Idea
Serve your Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken over steamed jasmine or basmati rice. A side of sautéed greens, such as bok choy or spinach, adds color and nutrients. For an extra crunchy texture, a side of fried wontons or spring rolls complements the flavors perfectly.
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Jasmine Rice | Cook rice in chicken broth for added flavor. |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | Choose seasonal veggies for the best flavor. |
| Spring Rolls | Prepare ahead and serve as an appetizer. |
Final Thoughts on Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken
This Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken is a standout dish, not just for its taste but also for ease of preparation. With its crispy texture and vibrant flavors, it is bound to impress family and friends. Make a sizeable batch and store leftovers in an airtight container to enjoy later. Bring out the magic of this Indo-Chinese comfort food recipe in your kitchen and treat yourself to an exciting flavor adventure. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on Pinterest so others can enjoy this delicious dish as well. Find inspiration by visiting my Pinterest page.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. This helps ensure even cooking and better absorption of flavors.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the skillet on medium heat to maintain its crispiness.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness level is adjustable. You can control the amount of dried red chilies or chili garlic sauce to suit your heat preference.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian option.
What can I pair with Dragon Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine or basmati rice, stir-fried vegetables, or spring rolls for a complete meal.
Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken
This quick Indo-Chinese dish features tender chicken in a crispy coating, tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- 1 piece Egg White
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- Vegetable Oil, as needed
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
- 2 tablespoons Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced
- 2–3 pieces Dried Red Chilies or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
- 1/2 cup Tomato Ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chili Garlic Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Sugar or Honey
- 1/4 cup Water
- Sliced Green Onions, to taste
- Toasted Sesame Seeds, to taste
- Thin Strips of Fried Onion or Bell Pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, egg white, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the chicken is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Partially Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches and fry until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then add ketchup, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, vinegar, and sugar or honey. Gradually add water to reach desired consistency. Bring to a simmer and toss the crispy chicken to coat evenly.
Notes
Serve over steamed rice or noodles with sautéed greens for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Indo-Chinese
- Diet: High Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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