Chinese Fried Chicken
Crispy, flavorful Chinese-style fried chicken made with a fragrant five-spice blend and optional fried basil. Double-fried for the ultimate crunch!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate Time: Overnight (8 hours)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course, Street Food
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
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3 boneless chicken thighs, cut into 4 cm cubes
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp rice wine
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3 cups water
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1 cup self-rising flour
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2 tsp five spice powder
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1 tsp salt
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800 ml oil (for frying)
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1 cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl or container, mix soy sauce, rice wine, and water. Add the chicken cubes and marinate in the refrigerator overnight. -
Prepare the Dry Coating:
In a separate bowl, combine self-rising flour, five spice powder, and salt. Mix well. -
Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 375°F (190°C). -
First Fry:
Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
Fry the chicken in batches for 3–5 minutes, until light golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. Rest for 2–3 minutes. -
Second Fry:
Fry the chicken again for 1–2 minutes until deep golden and crispy. Drain well. -
Optional Fried Basil:
Carefully fry the basil leaves in the hot oil for a few seconds until crisp. Mix them with the fried chicken before serving.
Notes
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Double Frying gives the chicken its extra crunch—don’t skip it!
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Basil Tip: Add basil only at the end, and fry with caution as it splatters.
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Substitute chicken breast if preferred, but thighs give more juiciness.
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Let chicken rest between fries to retain moisture inside while crisping the outside.
Find it online: https://2thenextgen.com/the-best-chinese-fried-chicken-recipe/