Fried chicken is a beloved dish enjoyed by many around the world, but have you ever tried Chinese-style fried chicken? This variation brings a unique twist to the classic comfort food, with a tantalizing blend of spices and flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making Chinese-style fried chicken in your own kitchen, allowing you to experience the delectable delights of this Asian-inspired dish.
Chinese-Style Fried Chicken
Materials
- 2 pounds of chicken pieces such as drumsticks, thighs, or wings
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger grated
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
- To infuse the chicken with delicious flavors, it's important to marinate it before frying. In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Chinese rice wine or dry sherry, sesame oil, sugar, salt, white pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir the marinade ingredients until well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. Marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender fried chicken.
Preparing the Coating
- While the chicken is marinating, it's time to prepare the coating for the fried chicken. In a shallow dish or a large zip-top bag, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Mix the dry ingredients together until well combined.
Coating and Frying the Chicken
- Once the chicken has finished marinating, it's time to coat and fry it. Fill a deep pot or a deep fryer with vegetable oil, ensuring there's enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the oil to a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- While the oil is heating, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to come to room temperature, ensuring more even cooking.
- Take one piece of chicken at a time and coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well. Shake off any excess coating and set the coated chicken aside on a wire rack or a plate.
- Once all the chicken pieces are coated, carefully lower them into the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Be cautious to avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in greasier chicken. Fry the chicken in batches, if necessary.
- Cook the chicken in the hot oil for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
Serving and Enjoying Chinese-Style Fried Chicken
- Chinese-style fried chicken is best enjoyed immediately after frying while it's still hot and crispy. Serve the fried chicken with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, you can drizzle the chicken with a bit of sweet and sour sauce or serve it alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as chili sauce or soy sauce.
Tips for Success
Marinate for maximum flavor: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate it for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful fried chicken.
Use a thermometer for frying: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This helps prevent undercooking or overcooking the chicken.
Maintain the oil temperature: It’s important to maintain the oil temperature during frying. If the oil is too hot, the chicken may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy. Adjust the heat as needed to keep the oil temperature consistent.
Allow the chicken to rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest on a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate for a few minutes. This allows any excess oil to drain and helps the chicken maintain its crispiness.
Conclusion
Chinese-style fried chicken offers a delightful twist to the classic comfort food, infusing it with aromatic flavors and a satisfying crunch. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a batch of homemade Chinese-style fried chicken that will impress your family and friends. So, don your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure to savor the delights of this Asian-inspired dish.
