Hong Kong Crispy Fried Chicken
A popular Hong Kong street food, this dish features chicken pieces that are incredibly crispy on the outside with a juicy, tender interior. It's often seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and sometimes served with a peppery salt dip.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken thighs(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp Light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Ground white pepper
- 2 tbsp Chinese five spice powder
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Cornstarch
- 1 Large egg
- Neutral oil for frying(enough for deep frying)
- Pepper salt(for serving (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with light soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, white pepper, Chinese five spice powder, and sugar. Mix well and marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
- 2
Remove chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before frying.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with all-purpose flour and cornstarch until a thick batter forms.
- 4
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the batter and toss to coat evenly.
- 5
Heat about 2-3 inches of neutral oil in a deep pot or wok to 350°F (175°C).
💡 Tip: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for optimal crispiness. - 6
Carefully add the battered chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and cooked through.
💡 Tip: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. - 7
Remove the fried chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack set over paper towels.
- 8
Serve the crispy fried chicken hot, optionally sprinkled with pepper salt.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.
- ✓Double-frying can result in an even crispier texture, but is optional.
🔄 Variations
- Use chicken wings or drumettes for a different presentation.
- Add a pinch of Sichuan peppercorn powder to the marinade for a subtle numbing sensation.