Chinese Style Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’re a fan of delicious and flavorful fried chicken, then you’ll love this Chinese style fried chicken recipe. This recipe combines the crispy and juicy texture of fried chicken with the bold and savory flavors of Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of preparing, cooking, and serving this delectable dish. So, let’s get started!

Basic Cooking Skills and Principles

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to have some basic cooking skills and principles under your belt. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Keep your workspace clean and organized: A clutter-free kitchen will make the cooking process much smoother and enjoyable.

2. Read the recipe thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the ingredients and steps involved in the recipe before you begin cooking.

3. Practice knife skills: Knowing how to properly handle a knife will make chopping and slicing ingredients a breeze.

4. Control the heat: Different cooking methods require different heat levels. Learn how to adjust the heat on your stovetop or oven for optimal results.

Preparing the Kitchen and Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have all your ingredients and equipment ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Chicken: You can use bone-in or boneless chicken pieces, depending on your preference. Thighs and drumsticks work well for this recipe.

2. Marinade: Prepare a marinade using soy sauce, garlic, ginger, Chinese five spice powder, and a touch of sugar for sweetness.

3. Breading: Create a breading mixture by combining all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This will give your chicken a crispy coating.

4. Cooking oil: Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable or peanut oil for frying.

5. Garnish: Prepare some green onions and sesame seeds for garnishing the finished dish.

Choosing and Following Recipes for Chinese Style Fried Chicken

When it comes to choosing a recipe for Chinese style fried chicken, there are plenty of options available. You can find recipes online, in cookbooks, or even ask your friends and family for their favorite recipes. Look for recipes that have clear instructions and use ingredients that you enjoy.

Choosing a Recipe

When choosing a recipe, consider your own taste preferences and the level of difficulty you’re comfortable with. Some recipes may have more complex flavors and techniques, while others may be simpler and more straightforward. Choose a recipe that aligns with your skill level and desired flavors.

Reading and Understanding Instructions

Once you’ve chosen a recipe, it’s important to thoroughly read and understand the instructions. Take note of any special equipment or techniques mentioned in the recipe. Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and understand the order of steps involved in the cooking process. Understanding the recipe beforehand will help you avoid any mistakes or confusion while cooking.

Step by Step Cooking Process

Now that you have everything prepared, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these steps to create delicious Chinese style fried chicken:

Preparing Main and Supplementary Materials

1. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. In a bowl, combine the marinade ingredients and mix well. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the breading ingredients and mix well.

Recipe Making Process

1. Heat a large frying pan or deep fryer with cooking oil over medium-high heat.

2. Take each marinated chicken piece and coat it evenly in the breading mixture. Shake off any excess breading.

3. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.

4. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Testing the Level of Doneness and Adjusting the Seasoning

Before serving, it’s important to check the level of doneness of the chicken. You can do this by cutting into one of the larger pieces and checking if the meat is cooked through and no longer pink. If needed, you can adjust the seasoning by sprinkling some salt or additional spices on the cooked chicken while it’s still hot.

Presentation and Serving

Now that your Chinese style fried chicken is ready, it’s time to present and serve it in an appealing way. Here are a few tips:

Preparing Cooked Food Attractively

Arrange the fried chicken pieces on a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. You can also add some fresh herbs or a sprig of cilantro for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving Dishes with Side Dishes or Sauces

Chinese style fried chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes and sauces. Serve it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also provide dipping sauces such as sweet and sour sauce, spicy chili sauce, or soy sauce for added flavor options.

Benefits and Nutritional Content of Chinese Style Fried Chicken Recipe

Chinese style fried chicken, when prepared using quality ingredients and cooked in moderation, can be a delicious and nutritious dish. Here are some benefits and nutritional content:

Benefits and Nutritional Content

1. Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

2. Flavorful Spices: The marinade and breading in this recipe contain flavorful spices like garlic, ginger, and Chinese five spice powder, which provide not only taste but also potential health benefits.

3. Antioxidants: Garlic and ginger are known for their antioxidant properties, which can help boost your immune system and protect against certain diseases.

FAQ

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used for this recipe. However, keep in mind that bone-in chicken may provide more flavor and moisture.

2. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use different types of oil for frying, such as canola or sunflower oil. Just make sure the oil has a high smoke point to prevent it from burning.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or a combination of gluten-free flours in the breading mixture.

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven instead of frying it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven or microwave.

6. Can I use other spices in the marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings in the marinade to suit your taste preferences.

7. Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken for this recipe. The breading will still provide a crispy and flavorful coating.