Taiwanese Fried Chicken is a mouthwatering delicacy that brings the vibrant flavors of Taiwan to your kitchen. Known for its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat, this dish is marinated in a blend of spices, coated in a light batter, and fried to golden perfection. It’s an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, and it’s a beloved street food in Taiwan that has gained popularity worldwide. With its savory and slightly sweet notes, Taiwanese Fried Chicken is a dish that everyone will crave, making it a must-try recipe for any home cook.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Taiwanese Fried Chicken recipe because it combines bold flavors and an incredibly satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. The marinade infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor, while the frying process creates that delectable crispy texture we all adore. This recipe is relatively simple to follow, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Plus, it fits seamlessly into various dietary lifestyles, as it can easily be modified to cater to gluten-free or low-carb diets without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Taiwanese Fried Chicken even better, here are some tips and tricks:
- Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This extra time enhances the flavors significantly.
- Double Frying: For an extra crispy texture, consider double frying the chicken. Fry it once until golden, let it rest, and then fry it again for a few minutes until it reaches the desired crunchiness.
- Use Cornstarch: Incorporating cornstarch into your batter not only makes it lighter but also adds an extra layer of crispiness.
- Temperature Control: Ensure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F or 180°C) before adding the chicken to avoid a greasy result. A thermometer can be a great tool here!
Make Ahead Tips
If you’re short on time, you can prepare parts of this dish in advance:
- Marinate the Chicken: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Batter: The batter can also be mixed ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Cooked Chicken Storage: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
Here are some fun variations to try with your Taiwanese Fried Chicken:
- Spicy Version: Add chili powder or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Chicken: Incorporate herbs like cilantro or basil into the marinade for a fresh twist.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier take, use an air fryer instead of deep frying. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How to Serve
Serve your Taiwanese Fried Chicken hot and fresh from the fryer for the best experience. Pair it with a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. A side of sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo makes for an excellent dipping option. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or pickled vegetables to balance the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Taiwanese Fried Chicken, consider these pairing suggestions:
- Drink Pairings: A cold Taiwanese beer or a refreshing iced tea would be perfect. For something stronger, a light cocktail like a gin and tonic works well too.
- Side Dishes: Serve with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even some crispy fries to soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Desserts: Finish your meal with a light dessert, such as mango sticky rice or a fresh fruit salad, to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
To store leftovers properly, follow these guidelines:
- Refrigerator: Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to restore crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Equipment Needed
To make Taiwanese Fried Chicken, you will need:
- A large bowl for marinating
- A frying pan or deep fryer
- A thermometer for oil temperature
- A slotted spoon or tongs for flipping the chicken
- A cooling rack for draining excess oil
If you don’t have a deep fryer, a heavy-bottomed pot or a cast-iron skillet will work just fine.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, here are some adaptations:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but check your seasonings to ensure they don’t contain dairy.
- Nut-Free: As written, the recipe is nut-free, but always double-check ingredient labels to ensure no cross-contamination occurs.
Seasonal Adaptations
You can adjust the recipe based on seasonal availability:
- Spring: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the marinade for vibrant flavors.
- Summer: Serve with a side of fresh corn salad or grilled veggies.
- Fall: Add a hint of pumpkin spice to the marinade for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Pair with hearty root vegetables or a warming soup to balance the meal.
Recipe FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully and offer even more juiciness.
- What can I substitute for five-spice powder? If you can’t find it, a mix of cinnamon, cloves, and star anise can work in a pinch.
- How long does it take to cook the chicken? Frying typically takes about 8-10 minutes per batch, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Taiwanese Fried Chicken
Taiwanese Fried Chicken is a mouthwatering delicacy that brings the vibrant flavors of Taiwan to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine
- 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and placing them in a large bowl.
- Add soy sauce, rice wine, five-spice powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (180°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a cooling rack to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining chicken.
- Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce and garnishes.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 593Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 277mgSodium: 1153mgCarbohydrates: 41gFiber: 2gSugar: 0gProtein: 59g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Taiwanese Fried Chicken is an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its heavenly crunch and flavorful marinade, it brings the essence of Taiwanese street food right to your home. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to delight your taste buds with this incredible dish!
