Firecracker Chicken: A Flavourful and Crispy Delight
Firecracker chicken is a delicious dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen. This firecracker chicken recipe features perfectly crispy fried chicken coated in a flavour-packed sauce.
Ideal for a comforting weeknight meal, it offers a delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavours.
The Magic of Firecracker Chicken
If you’re in search of a dish that feels like takeout but is homemade, firecracker chicken is your answer. This recipe boasts chicken that remains crispy and a sauce that is bursting with flavour.
The heat from buffalo sauce harmonises beautifully with the sweetness of brown sugar, umami from soy sauce, and tanginess from apple cider vinegar. The addition of melted butter gives the sauce a velvety finish, while mustard powder enhances the overall flavour without being overpowering.
To achieve that perfect crispiness, the chicken is dipped in whisked eggs, coated in cornstarch, and then dipped back into the eggs before frying. This double-dipping method ensures that the chicken stays crispy, even after baking.
Ingredients for Firecracker Chicken
To prepare firecracker chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 eggs, whisked
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or more as needed)
- ¾ cup cornstarch
- Sauce:
- ¾ cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Equipment Needed
- 3.5-quart Dutch oven (ideal for frying)
- 9 x 13 inch baking dish
- Oil thermometer (to ensure perfect frying)
- Deep fryer (optional)
- Slotted spoon (for frying)
How to Make Firecracker Chicken
Making firecracker chicken involves a few simple steps. Follow this guide to achieve the best results:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the chicken into 2-inch cubes and pat them dry. Season with salt and pepper.
- Whisk the eggs in a medium bowl until they are uniform in colour and have air pockets.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
- Dip the chicken pieces into the whisked eggs to coat thoroughly.
- Dredge the chicken in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is well covered.
- Briefly dip the chicken back into the whisked eggs.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F (185°C).
- Fry the chicken in batches, leaving enough space around each piece to allow for even cooking. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until light brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on wire cooling racks. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- While the chicken cools, combine the sauce ingredients in a large bowl. This includes buffalo sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, melted butter, soy sauce, garlic powder, optional chili powder, mustard powder, and salt. Mix well until combined.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Once all chicken is fried, toss the pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated chicken to a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes, remove from the oven, and toss the chicken again to coat with more sauce.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish your firecracker chicken with chopped green onions and serve over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Firecracker Chicken
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is sufficiently heated before adding the chicken. The chicken should start frying immediately; this helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.
- Oil Selection: You can also use peanut oil for frying, which adds a unique flavour.
- Sauce Customisation: If you prefer more heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers: Firecracker chicken makes an excellent topping for pizza. Drizzle some blue cheese or ranch dressing over it for an irresistible twist.
Storing Firecracker Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice separately for up to three months.
To Reheat:
- Microwave the chicken from a thawed state or reheat in a lightly greased casserole dish at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
- Reheat the rice in the microwave or a lightly greased foil packet in the oven for 10 minutes.
Nutritional Information
This firecracker chicken recipe serves approximately six people. Each serving contains around 703 calories, with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
- Calories: 703
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 43g
- Sodium: 1267mg
- Sugar: 36g
FAQs about Firecracker Chicken
Is Firecracker Chicken very spicy?
Firecracker chicken has a moderate level of heat due to buffalo sauce. You can adjust the spice level by using less buffalo sauce or omitting optional chili powder.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure thorough cooking.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider baking the chicken without frying. Use whole grain breading for added nutrition.
What can I serve with Firecracker Chicken?
Firecracker chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I freeze Firecracker Chicken?
Yes, it freezes well. Ensure to store it properly to maintain its flavour and texture.
Firecracker chicken is not just another recipe; it’s an experience filled with flavour and satisfaction. By following this guide, you can create a dish that rivals your favourite takeout, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
References: