Asian Recipes: Chicken Breast with Chilli

Welcome to this flavorful culinary journey! In this step-by-step guide, we will explore the delectable world of Asian Chilli Chicken. A popular dish renowned for its harmonious blend of spices, succulent chicken, and vibrant flavors, Asian Chilli Chicken is a delight for the taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, let’s dive in and learn how to create this mouthwatering dish from scratch!

Ingredients You Need

To prepare the Asian Chilli Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken – Two breasts, cut in half horizontally to form 4 steaks in total. Alternatively, 4 to 5 boneless skinless chicken thighs or about 500g/1lb chicken tenderloins.
• Garlic and Ginger – Freshly minced or grated to add aromatic goodness.
• Chilli Flakes (Red Pepper Flakes) – For a delightful kick of spiciness.
• Sriracha – To infuse the dish with a rich and tangy flavor.
• Honey – For a touch of sweetness that balances the heat.
• Sesame – Toasted sesame seeds to add a nutty and crunchy element.
• Soy Sauce – All-purpose or light soy sauce for the umami taste.
• Lime (or Rice Vinegar) – To enhance the tanginess of the dish.
• Rice Flour or Ordinary Wheat Flour (Plain/All-purpose) – For the chicken coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season chicken

• Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Preparing the Coating

• In a separate bowl, create the coating for the chicken. Mix rice flour (or ordinary wheat flour) with a pinch of salt and chilli flakes.
• Take the chicken pieces and coat them evenly with the prepared flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well coated for a crispy texture.

Step 3: Frying the Chicken

• Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. You can use vegetable oil or any oil with a high smoke point.
• Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. This should take around 5-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
• Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 4: Preparing the Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine the minced garlic, honey, grated ginger, soy sauce and lime juice (or rice vinegar). Stir the mixture over low heat until the honey dissolves and the sauce thickens. Add the sriracha sauce.

Step 5: Glazing the Chicken

• In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces with the honey-soy sauce glaze until they are evenly coated.
• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the glazed chicken for added flavor and a delightful crunch.

Step 6: Serving the Asian Chilli Chicken

• Arrange the glazed and garnished chicken pieces on a serving platter.
• You can serve the Asian Chilli Chicken as an appetizer, accompanied by a side of steamed rice or noodles.
• Garnish with chopped spring onions or cilantro to add a fresh and colorful touch.
• Enjoy your homemade Asian Chilli Chicken with your loved ones and savor the explosion of flavors!

Asian Chilli Chicken

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and add extra juiciness to the final result.
2. Q: Is Sriracha the same as regular chilli sauce? A: While both are hot sauces, Sriracha has a unique flavor profile with garlic and vinegar notes, making it a perfect fit for this recipe.
3. Q: Can I make the Asian Chilli Chicken less spicy? A: Yes, you can adjust the spice level by reducing the amount of chilli flakes or Sriracha used in the marinade and glaze.
4. Q: What side dishes complement Asian Chilli Chicken? A: Steamed jasmine rice, vegetable stir-fry, or noodles make fantastic accompaniments to this dish.
5. Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken in advance and reheat it in the oven before serving.
6. Q: Is this dish suitable for vegetarians? A: You can replace the chicken with tofu or paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to create a vegetarian version of Asian Chilli “Chicken.”

Congratulations! You’ve successfully mastered the art of preparing Asian Chilli Chicken. This flavorful and spicy dish is sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with different spice levels and accompaniments to cater to your taste preferences. Remember, cooking is an art, so feel free to add your creative flair to the recipe. Share this delicious recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy the joy of sharing a satisfying meal together.