Chinese Fried Chicken

Authentic Chinese Fried Chicken Recipe with Soy Sauce & Green Onions

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 6-7 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese Fried Chicken is a popular dish that combines the flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and green onions with crispy fried chicken. This recipe is a delicious and savory option for a family meal or a special occasion.

History

Chinese Fried Chicken has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for many years. The combination of marinating the chicken in a flavorful mixture and then frying it to crispy perfection has been a favorite among food lovers around the world.

Ingredients

1 kg chicken, cut up into serving sizes
1 tbsp cooking wine
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp sugar
4 tsp soy sauce
4 green onions, cut into 1 inch pieces
4 slices ginger root
2 small egg yolks
4 tbsp cornstarch
oil for frying

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the cooking wine, salt, sugar, soy sauce, green onions, and ginger.
Add the chicken to the mixture and mix well. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour.
If desired, remove the ginger and green onions before frying.
Add the egg yolks to the mixture and mix thoroughly.
Add the cornstarch and mix well.
Heat oil to medium heat and deep fry the chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes, or until cooked and crispy on the outside.
Serve the dish.

Variations

Add a touch of honey or hoisin sauce to the marinade for a sweeter flavor.
Use boneless chicken thighs or wings for a different texture.
Experiment with different spices such as garlic powder or chili flakes for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Remove the ginger and green onions before frying if desired for a milder flavor.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

- Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Fried Chicken can be served with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Cooking Techniques

Deep frying is the preferred cooking technique for Chinese Fried Chicken to achieve a crispy and golden brown exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use rice vinegar or sherry as a substitute for cooking wine.

- Cornstarch can be replaced with potato starch or all-purpose flour for coating the chicken.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying for a quick and easy meal prep option.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Chinese Fried Chicken with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Fried Chicken pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli, fried rice, or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Fried Chicken contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese Fried Chicken contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese Fried Chicken contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Fried Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chinese Fried Chicken is a good source of iron, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and eggs.

Summary

Chinese Fried Chicken is a flavorful and protein-rich dish that is relatively high in fats and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Chinese Fried Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With a flavorful marinade and crispy coating, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, full of curiosity and a love for cooking. I had always been fascinated by the flavors and techniques of Chinese cuisine, so when I stumbled upon a recipe for Chinese Fried Chicken in an old cookbook at a flea market, I knew I had to give it a try.

The recipe called for simple ingredients – chicken pieces, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a few other pantry staples. But what really caught my eye was the method of marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before frying it to crispy perfection. It sounded like a combination of flavors I had never tasted before, and I was eager to experience it for myself.

I brought the cookbook home and immediately set to work gathering the ingredients. My mother, who was always supportive of my culinary adventures, watched as I carefully measured out the soy sauce, grated the fresh ginger, and minced the garlic. She smiled as she saw the excitement in my eyes, knowing that I was about to embark on a new cooking journey.

As the chicken pieces marinated in the fragrant mixture, I could hardly contain my anticipation. The aroma of ginger and garlic filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation of the final dish. I heated up a pot of oil on the stove, ready to fry the chicken to golden perfection.

As the first batch of chicken sizzled in the hot oil, I watched with bated breath as it turned a beautiful golden brown. The savory scent of the frying chicken filled the air, mingling with the fragrant spices of the marinade. I could hardly wait to taste the end result.

When the chicken was finally ready, I plated it up and brought it to the table. My family gathered around, eager to taste this new creation. As we each took a bite, we were all struck by the explosion of flavors – the savory soy sauce, the spicy ginger, and the aromatic garlic all combined to create a dish unlike any we had tasted before.

From that day on, Chinese Fried Chicken became a staple in our household. I would often make it for family gatherings and special occasions, delighting in the joy it brought to those who tasted it. I would sometimes experiment with different variations, adding a touch of honey for sweetness or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating a delicious dish from scratch. Each time I make Chinese Fried Chicken, I am reminded of that first experience of discovery, of stumbling upon a recipe that would become a beloved favorite in my culinary repertoire.

As I look back on that moment now, I am grateful for the curiosity and passion that led me to that flea market cookbook so many years ago. It is a reminder that the joy of cooking lies not only in the final dish, but in the journey of exploration and discovery that leads us to new flavors and experiences. And for that, I am forever thankful.