Chinese fried chicken is a delicious and popular dish that combines the crispy texture of fried chicken with the unique flavors of Chinese cuisine. This article will guide you through the process of making Chinese fried chicken, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Chinese Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients
Chicken: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or chicken parts (thighs, drumsticks, wings)
Marinade: Soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, ginger, garlic, and white pepper
Coating: Cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and baking powder
Oil: For frying (peanut oil or vegetable oil)
Optional Ingredients
Seasonings: Five-spice powder, Sichuan peppercorns, or chili flakes for added flavor
Garnishes: Chopped green onions, cilantro, or sesame seeds
Preparing the Chicken
Cleaning the Chicken
Rinse the Chicken: Rinse the chicken under cold water to remove any impurities.
Pat Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures a crispier crust.
Cutting the Chicken
Whole Chicken: If using a whole chicken, cut it into pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks, wings).
Chicken Parts: If using pre-cut parts, ensure they are of similar size for even cooking.
Marinating the Chicken
Preparing the Marinade
Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons for a savory base.
Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons for a rich, umami flavor.
Shaoxing Wine: 1 tablespoon to tenderize the meat and add depth.
Ginger and Garlic: 1 tablespoon each, minced, for aromatic flavor.
White Pepper: 1 teaspoon for a mild heat.
Marinating Process
Combine Ingredients: Mix all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl.
Add Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preparing the Coating
Dry Coating
Cornstarch: 1 cup for a light, crispy texture.
All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup to help the coating adhere.
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon to add extra crispiness.
Mixing the Coating
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, and baking powder.
Season: Add a pinch of salt and any optional seasonings like five-spice powder or chili flakes.
Coating the Chicken
Dredging Process
Remove Chicken: Take the marinated chicken pieces out of the refrigerator.
Coat Each Piece: Dredge each piece in the dry coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer.
Shake Off Excess: Gently shake off any excess coating to avoid clumping during frying.
Resting the Coated Chicken
Let it Sit: Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier crust.
Frying the Chicken
Heating the Oil
Choose the Right Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or vegetable oil.
Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep fryer or large pot to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
Frying Process
Fry in Batches: Carefully place a few chicken pieces into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
Monitor Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry each piece for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Double Frying (Optional)
First Fry: Fry the chicken pieces at a lower temperature (300°F or 150°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the chicken again for 2-3 minutes until extra crispy.
Serving the Chinese Fried Chicken
Garnishing
Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the chicken for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Cilantro: Add some cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
Dipping Sauces
Sweet and Sour Sauce: A classic choice that complements the crispy chicken.
Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with chili sauce for a creamy, spicy dip.
Soy-Ginger Sauce: Combine soy sauce, minced ginger, and a touch of honey for a savory-sweet option.
Tips for Perfect Chinese Fried Chicken
Choosing the Right Chicken
Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh chicken is preferred for better texture and flavor, but frozen chicken can be used if thawed properly.
Skin-On vs. Skinless: Skin-on chicken pieces yield a crispier result, but skinless can be used for a lighter version.
Maintaining Oil Temperature
Use a Thermometer: A kitchen thermometer is essential to monitor the oil temperature accurately.
Avoid Overcrowding: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
Ensuring Crispiness
Double Frying: This technique ensures an extra crispy crust.
Resting the Coated Chicken: Allowing the coated chicken to rest before frying helps the coating adhere better.
Safety Tips
Handle Hot Oil with Care: Use long tongs or a slotted spoon to avoid splatters.
Keep a Lid Nearby: In case of oil splatters, a lid can help contain the mess.
Variations of Chinese Fried Chicken
Sichuan-Style Fried Chicken
Spicy Marinade: Add Sichuan peppercorns and chili flakes to the marinade for a numbing, spicy flavor.
Spicy Coating: Mix some chili powder into the dry coating for an extra kick.
Five-Spice Fried Chicken
Five-Spice Powder: Incorporate five-spice powder into both the marinade and the coating for a fragrant, complex flavor.
Honey Garlic Fried Chicken
Honey Garlic Glaze: After frying, toss the chicken in a mixture of honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
Conclusion
Making Chinese fried chicken at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a crispy, flavorful dish tailored to your taste. By following this detailed guide, you can master the art of Chinese fried chicken. Remember to experiment with different marinades, coatings, and garnishes to create your unique version of this beloved dish.
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How Do You Make Chinese Fried Chicken?
