Introduction:
Spicy Garlic Fried Chicken is a flavorful and crispy dish that is perfect for any occasion. Combining the rich, crispy coating of fried chicken with the heat of chili peppers and the savory depth of garlic, this recipe creates a mouthwatering meal that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing a special meal for guests, or simply treating yourself to a delicious dish, this spicy fried chicken offers a perfect balance of flavors.
The origins of fried chicken can be traced to Southern cuisine in the United States, where it became a beloved comfort food. Over the years, variations have appeared around the world, with different regions adding their twist, and this Spicy Garlic Fried Chicken is inspired by the bold and vibrant flavors often found in Asian and Southern cuisines. The addition of spicy garlic sauce elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it a must-try for any chicken lover.
Ingredients:
For the fried chicken:
6 chicken drumsticks or thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup buttermilk (optional, for marinating)
For the spicy garlic sauce:
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (or more for extra heat)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for added spice)
1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
For frying:
Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
Directions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cleaning and patting dry the chicken pieces. If you have time, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and enhance the flavor.
Make the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Dredge the Chicken:
Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, then roll them in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate and let them rest while you heat the oil.
Prepare the Spicy Garlic Sauce:
In a small saucepan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and chili flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
Fry the Chicken:
In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown and crispy.
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Toss the Chicken in the Spicy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is still hot, dip or brush it generously with the spicy garlic sauce, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
Serve and Garnish:
Arrange the spicy garlic fried chicken on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for an added burst of freshness and color.
How to Prepare:
If you’re marinating the chicken, prepare it ahead of time, allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.
Prepare the coating by mixing dry ingredients together in a shallow dish or bowl.
Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C) for deep frying to ensure the chicken crisps up without absorbing too much oil.
For the sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha and chili flakes based on your spice preference.
After frying, allow the chicken to rest briefly on a wire rack to retain its crispiness before tossing in the sauce.
Preparation Time:
Marinating time (optional): 30 minutes to overnight
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: This recipe serves approximately 4 people, with 2-3 pieces of chicken per person, depending on the size of the chicken.
FAQs:
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. However, the cooking time will be shorter, so be sure to adjust accordingly.
Can I make the spicy garlic sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How can I make this recipe spicier? Increase the amount of sriracha sauce, or add more chili flakes to the garlic sauce to give it an extra kick.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? Yes, you can bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The result will be less crispy than fried, but still delicious.
What should I serve with Spicy Garlic Fried Chicken? This dish pairs well with steamed rice, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce, like extra sriracha or a cool yogurt-based dip.
