Name: Spicy Chinese Chicken: A Crispy Delight for Dinner Tonight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken Breasts (Can substitute with chicken thighs, shrimp, or tofu.); 1 piece Egg (Binding agent.); 2 tablespoons Garlic Ginger Paste (Infuses flavor.); 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Adds umami flavor.); 1 tablespoon Chili Powder (Adjust for spice level.); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (For crispy coating.); 1/4 cup Walnut Oil (For frying.); 1 piece Red Onion (Chopped.); 1 piece Red Chili Pepper (Sliced.); 1 piece Green Chili Pepper (Sliced.); 1/4 cup Tomato Ketchup (For tanginess.); 2 tablespoons Honey (Adds sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Sweet Chili Sauce; 1/4 cup Cashew Nuts (Optional.); 2 pieces Green Onions (Sliced for garnish.)

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“Wait, you can whip up restaurant-quality spicy Chinese chicken at home?” I overheard a friend exclaim while scrolling through recipes. It got me thinking about the magic of transforming simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. That’s exactly what my Dragon Chicken recipe achieves—spicy, crispy, and coated in a sticky-sweet sauce that’s irresistible! Perfect as a high-protein, quick and easy meal, this dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fits in beautifully with any busy weeknight schedule. Even better, it’s completely customizable for spice levels, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy it at their own comfort. Ready to impress your friends or family with a dish that looks as good as it tastes? Let’s dive in!

Why is Dragon Chicken so irresistible?

Bursting with flavor: This dish delivers an exciting mix of sweetness and spice that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have this on the table in under an hour, making it a go-to for a satisfying dinner.

Customizable: Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer a milder taste, it adapts to your preferences, ensuring every member of the family is happy.

Crowd-pleaser: With its stunning, vibrant color and crispy texture, this Dragon Chicken can easily wow guests at your next gathering, much like our popular Tandoori Chicken Tikka or Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

Versatile: Swap out chicken for tofu or even shrimp, making it suitable for various dietary preferences—no one will miss out on this delicious meal!

Spicy Chinese Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Chicken Breasts – This high-protein option can be easily replaced with chicken thighs, shrimp, or tofu for a delicious variation.
• Egg – Acts as a binding agent to help the seasoning adhere to the chicken.
• Garlic Ginger Paste – Infuses aromatic depth into the marinade for a flavorful kick.
• Soy Sauce – Adds savory umami and saltiness to enhance the overall taste.
• Chili Powder – Provides a spicy kick; you can reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
• Cornstarch – Essential for achieving that perfectly crispy coating when fried.

For the Sauce
• Walnut Oil – Ideal for shallow frying and contributes a lovely nutty flavor.
• Red Onion – Enhances the sauce with its natural sweetness and complexity.
• Red and Green Chili Peppers – Add fresh heat and vibrant color; you can adjust quantities based on your spice tolerance.
• Tomato Ketchup – Balances the dish with tanginess and a hint of sweetness.
• Honey – Helps to sweeten the sauce and counter the heat for a well-rounded flavor.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds an additional layer of sweetness with a subtle spicy kick.

For Serving
• Cashew Nuts (optional) – Provides crunch and a boost of healthy fats to your dish.
• Green Onions – Freshens up the dish, making it visually appealing and tasty as a garnish.

Now you’re all set to create your deliciously spicy Chinese chicken that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Chinese Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, whisk together one egg, garlic ginger paste, soy sauce, chili powder, and cornstarch until smooth. Add diced chicken breasts and toss until thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken for your Spicy Chinese Chicken.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1/4 inch of walnut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add marinated chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken pieces are golden brown and crispy, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Dragon Sauce
In the same pan, add a splash more walnut oil if needed and heat over medium. Stir in chopped red onion, garlic ginger paste, and sliced red and green chili peppers. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas to complement your Spicy Chinese Chicken.

Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Add tomato ketchup, honey, sweet chili sauce, and a splash of soy sauce to the sautéed mixture. Stir well and bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, which should take around 2–3 minutes. The sauce should become rich and glossy, perfect for enveloping your crispy chicken pieces.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken back to the pan. Toss gently but thoroughly for about 1 minute, ensuring each piece is well coated in the delicious sauce. Watch for the sauce to cling beautifully to every piece, transforming your dish into a sticky, spicy delight.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To finish off your Spicy Chinese Chicken, sprinkle with cashew nuts and sliced green onions for added texture and color. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, making for a colorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

What to Serve with Dragon Chicken

Set the stage for a vibrant meal that beckons with enticing aromas and satisfying flavors.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, it soaks up the delicious dragon sauce perfectly, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp and fresh, these rolls provide a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken beautifully. Serve them with a dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Stir-Fried Broccoli: A healthy side that adds a lovely crunch and a burst of green to your plate, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Sesame Noodles: These can be a delightful addition with their nutty flavor and smooth texture, enhancing the meal’s overall depth. Toss them in a light dressing for a refreshing touch.
Cucumber Salad: Cool and refreshing, it calms the spice of Dragon Chicken while adding a crisp texture; an ideal palate cleanser!
Chilled Lychee Drink: A sweet, fruity beverage that complements the dish’s heat perfectly, leaving you refreshed and satisfied.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet ending, this dessert brings a delightful fusion of flavors to the table, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Sichuan Peppers: For those who love spice, these can be sprinkled on the side for extra kick, making every bite a flavorful adventure!
Hot Green Tea: The earthy notes and warmth of green tea cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Spicy Chinese Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to create your perfect plate by customizing this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Vegetarian-Friendly: Substitute chicken with tofu, which absorbs flavors beautifully while offering a high-protein, plant-based alternative.
Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a delightful seafood version that cooks just as quickly and remains bursting with flavor.
Extra Crunch: Incorporate a mixture of fresh vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for added texture and nutrition that complements the chicken.
Heat Lovers: Add a splash of hot sauce or more chili peppers for those who crave an extra kick in their spicy Chinese chicken.
Sweet & Sour Fusion: Mix in pineapple chunks for a fruity twist that balances the spicy notes, reminiscent of sweet and sour chicken dishes.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Swap walnuts for peanuts or almonds to amplify the nutty notes while enhancing the crunch factor, making every bite exciting!
Low-Carb Option: Serve over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb twist that still satisfies.
Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the honey or sweet chili sauce to enhance the overall flavor profile, appealing to all taste buds.

No matter what variations you choose, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends—just like our flavorful Indian Butter Chicken or the succulent Honey Butter Chicken!

How to Store and Freeze Dragon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through without losing crispiness.

Tip: To maintain the optimal quality of your spicy Chinese chicken, avoid reheating more than once to keep flavors and textures intact.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Dragon Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for that unforgettable taste. Simply follow the marinating steps and refrigerate the coated chicken. Additionally, you can prepare the dragon sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the dish’s quality, keep the fried chicken and sauce separate until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, reheat the sauce gently, toss in the chicken for a minute to coat, and garnish with cashew nuts and green onions for a vibrant finish. You’ll have a stress-free, flavorful dinner ready in no time!

Expert Tips for Spicy Chinese Chicken

Even Marinade Coating: Ensure that the chicken is well coated with the marinade for the best flavor; a thorough mix lets every bite be delicious.
Frying Batch Size: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; this ensures that the chicken stays crispy instead of steaming.
Spice Control: Adjust the amount of chili powder and fresh chilies to suit your heat preference, allowing the dish to be enjoyed by everyone at the table.
Temperature Check: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken; if not, it can absorb too much oil and lose its desired crispiness.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and peppers elevate the flavors in your Spicy Chinese Chicken, creating a more aromatic and vibrant dish.

Spicy Chinese Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, look for vibrant, fresh produce. For the red and green chili peppers, choose ones that are firm and shiny, with no dark spots. Fresh ginger should be smooth and free of wrinkles, while the red onion should be crisp and without any blemishes. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in your Spicy Chinese Chicken!

How should I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool the chicken to room temperature before sealing it up. When it’s time to enjoy again, I recommend reheating gently in a skillet over medium heat to help restore that delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze Dragon Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze your Spicy Chinese Chicken! Just cool it completely, then place it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a skillet or oven—I suggest using an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for best results.

What should I do if the chicken isn’t crispy?
To ensure you get that perfect crispiness, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot, the chicken will absorb excess oil and lose its crunch. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying—this can cause steaming instead of frying. Fry it in batches if necessary for that delicious, crispy texture in your Spicy Chinese Chicken.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Great question! This recipe can be adapted for various dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, simply substitute the chicken with tofu. Additionally, if allergies are a concern, ensure to use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Always consider your guests’ dietary needs to make this dish a hit!

Can my pet eat any part of this dish?
It’s best to avoid giving your pet any part of the Spicy Chinese Chicken. The spices and ingredients, especially garlic and onions, can be harmful to pets. If you want to share a little chicken with them, make sure it’s plain and cooked without any seasoning!