Irresistibly Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of biting into a piece of chicken that delivers an explosion of flavor wrapped in an irresistibly crunchy crust, then this Irresistibly Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Recipe is going to be your new obsession. This recipe brings the perfect harmony of aromatic spices, a uniquely crispy coating from sweet potato starch, and juicy tender chicken that will captivate your taste buds from the very first bite. Whether you’re serving it up for a special occasion or craving a cozy night snack, this dish delivers authentic Taiwanese street food vibes right in your own kitchen. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing classic!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and achieving that signature crunch. From the tender chicken breast and marinating elements to the starch and spices for the coating, everything is simple yet essential to create a dish that sings with authenticity and texture.

• 500 g Chicken breast: Boneless for an evenly tender and juicy bite every time.
• 2 Eggs (Beaten): Acts as a glue to hold the crispy coating firmly on the chicken.
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce: Adds a deep, savory backbone to the marinade.
• 1 tbsp Shao Xing wine: Traditional Chinese cooking wine that tenderizes and flavors the chicken subtly.
• 1 tbsp Garlic (Fresh): Infuses the dish with a rich, welcoming aroma.
• 1 cup Sweet potato starch: The secret weapon for that irresistibly crispy and light crust.
• ¼ cup Plain flour: Balances the starch to create the perfect texture.
• ½ tsp Baking soda: Helps the crust puff up for extra crunchiness and volume.
• ½ tsp Garlic powder: Adds a second layer of garlicky goodness.
• ½ tsp Paprika powder: Provides mild heat and a beautiful golden hue.
• 1 tsp White pepper: Gentle spice that lifts the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tsp Chinese five spices: Gives a complex, warm depth to the seasoning.
• 1 tbsp Sugar: Balances out the savoriness with a subtle touch of sweetness.
• ¼ tsp Fine salt: Enhances and unites all the flavors harmoniously.
• Oil for frying: Use a high smoke point oil to yield an evenly crisp golden crust without burning.
• Handful Basil leaves: Adds fresh crunch and fragrant flair when fried.

How to Make Irresistibly Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by halving the chicken breasts lengthwise for uniform size and then gently pound each piece between cling film until they are evenly flat. This step ensures quicker, even cooking and tender bites that juice stays locked in.

Step 2: Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika powder, white pepper, and fine salt. This seasoning mix will infuse the coating with its signature flavorful spark.

Step 3: Marinating the Chicken

In a larger bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, freshly minced garlic, Shao Xing wine, Chinese five spices, sugar, and the seasoning mix you just prepared. Let the chicken soak in this vibrant marinade for at least 30 minutes — this step is where the magic begins as flavors deeply penetrate the chicken.

Step 4: Preparing the Coating

Beat the eggs in a large tray – this will act as the ‘glue’ for the coating. In another bowl, mix the sweet potato starch, plain flour, and baking soda together. The blend of these powders creates a fan-favorite irresistibly crunchy crust that sets this recipe apart.

Step 5: Coating the Chicken

Dip each marinated chicken piece into the beaten eggs, making sure to let any excess drip off to avoid clumpy coating. Then, dredge the pieces thoroughly in the flour-starch mixture, ensuring every inch is generously covered for maximum crispness.

Step 6: First Fry

Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 340-350°F (170-175°C). Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes until they rise and float, signaling that they are cooked through. Remove and let them rest on a cooling rack for a few minutes – this wait allows the crust to set beautifully.

Step 7: Double Fry for Extra Crunch

Return the chicken to the hot oil for a second fry, this time until they turn a mouthwatering golden brown. This double frying technique is key to achieving that hallmark “Irresistibly Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Recipe” crust that holds up perfectly against juicy bites inside.

Step 8: Crunchy Basil

While the chicken finishes, fry a handful of fresh basil leaves in the same oil for 2-3 minutes until crisp and fragrant. These add an aromatic crunch that complements the chicken perfectly.

Step 9: Serving Prep

Cut the fried chicken into medium-sized pieces, sprinkle with chili salt seasoning if you like a bit of heat, and get ready to enjoy. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for a flavor fest!

How to Serve Irresistibly Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly fried basil leaves aren’t just decorative – they add a surprising crunch and herbaceous flourish that elevate every bite. Sprinkle a touch of chili salt or even some toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

This fried chicken pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like shredded cabbage salad, pickled cucumbers, or steamed jasmine rice to balance the bold crunchy flavors. For something more indulgent, sweet potato fries or creamy coleslaw make fantastic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful by serving the chicken pieces in mini bao buns topped with hoisin sauce and crunchy slaw, or layer them over a bed of garlic fried rice with scallions and chili for an irresistible meal. If you’re hosting, a shareable platter garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs delights both the eyes and palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Taiwanese fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crust as crispy as possible, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to one month. Arrange the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Irresistibly Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Recipe in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaves as they can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

What makes Taiwanese fried chicken different from regular fried chicken?

Taiwanese fried chicken is characterized by its extra crispy coating thanks to sweet potato starch and a double frying method, coupled with aromatic spices like Chinese five spice and Shao Xing wine that give it a unique flavor profile different from typical Western versions.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer even more juiciness and flavor, but you’ll want to adjust frying time slightly since thighs are thicker. The method remains the same and results are just as delicious.

Is sweet potato starch necessary for the crispy texture?

Yes, using sweet potato starch is key to achieving the signature light and crackly crust in this recipe. It fries up crispier and less greasy than plain flour alone, giving that authentic street food crunch.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices and soy sauce to penetrate and tenderize the meat. If you have more time, an hour or two will deepen the flavors even further.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the plain flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your soy sauce is also gluten-free or use tamari to keep the dish safe and still delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Irresistibly Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that brings the beloved flavors of Taiwanese street food right into your home kitchen. From the juicy tender chicken to the light, crunchy coating bursting with spices, every bite promises joy. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, fry up a batch, and savor this delightful dish that’s sure to become a longtime favorite in your cooking repertoire.

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