Secret recipe revealed: how to create authentic chinese fried chicken like a pro

Chinese fried chicken, a beloved culinary staple in China and beyond, tantalizes taste buds with its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. This blog post will guide you through the intricacies of Chinese fried chicken preparation, providing you with a step-by-step recipe and essential tips to master this delectable dish.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and remove any excess skin or fat.

2. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, rice wine, oyster sauce, white pepper, salt, and ginger-garlic paste. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch and flour.

4. Double-Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg, then roll them in the cornstarch mixture. Repeat this step to create a double coating.

5. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F. Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Crispy Chicken

• Use a double coating: The double coating helps create a crispy exterior and locks in the moisture.
• Fry at the right temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for crispy chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Frying too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
• Drain thoroughly: Removing excess oil is essential for crispy chicken. Use paper towels to absorb any residual oil.

Variations

• Spicy Chinese Fried Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Honey Garlic Chinese Fried Chicken: Mix 1/4 cup honey and 2 tablespoons soy sauce in a small bowl. Brush the chicken with the honey garlic sauce after frying.
• Lemon Pepper Chinese Fried Chicken: Season the chicken with lemon pepper seasoning before frying.

How to Make Chinese Fried Chicken Dipping Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 green onion, chopped

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir well.

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Delight

Mastering the art of Chinese fried chicken requires patience, precision, and a love for flavorful cuisine. With practice and the techniques outlined in this guide, you can create crispy, juicy, and irresistible Chinese fried chicken that will delight your family and friends.

Top Questions Asked

1. What type of oil is best for frying Chinese fried chicken?

• Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are suitable options.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

• Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.

3. What can I use if I don’t have cornstarch?

• You can substitute cornstarch with potato starch or tapioca starch.

4. Can I bake Chinese fried chicken instead of frying it?

• Yes, you can bake Chinese fried chicken in an oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

5. How do I store leftover Chinese fried chicken?

• Store leftover Chinese fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.