Chilli-fried Chicken is a flavour-packed dish that combines tender, marinated Chicken with a spicy chili-onion paste. The marinade’s tangy tamarind and aromatic spices infuse the Chicken with a deep, rich flavour. After deep-frying to perfection, the Chicken is tossed in a fiery chilli sauce, making it a perfect choice for spice lovers. This dish can be served on big or small occasions and is also ideal to spice up your dinner.
About the Recipe
Chilli-fried Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavours. The tamarind marinade tenderizes the Chicken and adds a tangy note, while the turmeric and coriander bring depth and warmth. The real star, however, is the chilli-onion paste, which adds a punch of heat and a hint of sweetness. This dish is delicious and versatile—serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even in wraps and sandwiches.Â
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love Chilli-Fried Chicken for its irresistible combination of textures and flavours. The crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces are perfectly seasoned and marinated, contrasting the spicy, tangy chilli paste. The preparation process is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. The vibrant flavours and satisfying crunch make this dish a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or looking to try something new, this recipe will become a favourite.
Chilli Fried Chicken
Cooking Tips
For the best chilli-fried chicken, marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for deeper flavour. Maintaining a steady oil temperature when frying ensures the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy. If you prefer milder heat, reduce the number of red chillies or remove more seeds. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Chilli-fried chicken serves four people and is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness. This dish pairs well with steamed rice, a side of veggies, or a fresh salad.
Other Similar Recipes
- Spicy Chicken Wings
- Szechuan Chicken
- Thai Red Curry Chicken
Nutrient Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Red chillies boost vitamin C and capsaicin, aiding metabolism and providing antioxidant benefits.
Chilli-Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 600 g Chicken (rinsed, dried, cubed)
- 4 Large Red Chillies (seeded, chopped)
- 1 Onion (finely sliced)
- A Small Pinch of Turmeric Powder
- 1 1/2 tbsp Tamarind Concentrate
- 1/4 tsp Coriander Powder
- 3/4 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp + some more for deep-frying Oil
- 1/4 tsp White Pepper Powder
Instructions
- Mix tamarind concentrate, turmeric powder, coriander powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and white pepper powder.
- Combine this mix with the chicken pieces and place in a sealed bag.
- Marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan.
- Sauté red chillies and onions for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add 1/4 tsp salt and mix well.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Once cooled, grind to a coarse paste.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Deep-fry the chicken pieces in hot oil until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain excess oil.
- Transfer the chicken to a large bowl and pour the chilli sauce over it.
- Toss well to coat all pieces.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I reduce the spiciness of Chilli-Fried Chicken?
Use fewer red chillies or remove the seeds containing most of the heat to reduce the spiciness. You can add some sugar to the chilli paste to balance the heat. Pairing the dish with cooling sides like yoghurt or cucumber salad can also help mellow the spice level.
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even firm tofu as a vegetarian option. Adjust the marinating and cooking times to ensure the meat is tender and cooked. The flavorful marinade and spicy chilli paste work well with various proteins, allowing you to experiment and find your favourite variation.
What side dishes pair well with Chilli-Fried Chicken?
Chilli-fried chicken pairs excellently with steamed rice, which helps balance the heat. Green salad, cucumber raita, or sautéed vegetables make great sides. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside garlic naan or flatbread, which can soak up the delicious chilli sauce.
Note: image is for illustration purposes only and not that of the actual recipe.
