Five-spice fried chicken is a delightful fusion of rich Chinese spices and crispy fried goodness. Marinated in a flavorful blend of five-spice powder, soy sauce, and other aromatic ingredients, each piece of chicken is infused with savoury and slightly sweet notes. Once fried to perfection, the chicken offers a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own.Â
About the Recipe
This recipe stands out with its unique blend of five-spice powder, which includes star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds. The marinade enhances the flavour and tenderizes the chicken, making each bite juicy and delicious. The process is straightforward:
- Marinating the chicken
- Frying it to golden perfection
- Garnishing it with fresh coriander leaves
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It provides a taste of authentic Chinese flavours right at home. Serve it with steamed rice or a simple vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love Five Spice Fried Chicken for its aromatic and savoury flavour profile, combining the best Chinese spices with the universally loved crunch of fried chicken. The marinade infuses each piece with a depth of flavour that is both familiar and exotic. The cooking process is simple, yet the results are spectacular, making it an excellent choice for novice and experienced cooks. This dish will become a favourite, evoking memories of favourite takeout meals while introducing new and exciting flavours to your kitchen.
Five Spice Fried Chicken
Cooking Tips
- Marinate Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is well-coated and marinated for at least 2 hours to absorb all the flavours.
- Pat Dry Before Frying: Remove excess marinade and pat the chicken dry to achieve a crispy texture.
- Oil Temperature: Heat the oil to the right temperature (about 350°F) to ensure even frying and prevent the chicken from becoming greasy.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serve Five Spice Fried Chicken hot with steamed rice or a simple vegetable stir-fry. This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes about 30 minutes of active cooking time, around 2.5 hours, including marination. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
Other Similar Recipes
- Sweet and Sour Chicken
- General Tso’s Chicken
- Orange Chicken
Nutrient Benefits
This recipe features ingredients like garlic and Ginger, known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, using chicken provides a good source of lean protein.
Five Spice Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 750 gms Chicken (cut into medium-sized pieces)
- Oil for deep frying
- Handful of Chopped Coriander Leaves for garnish
For the Marinade:
- 2 Small Onions (finely sliced)
- 2 tbsp Sugar
- One one-inch piece of Ginger (peeled and sliced)
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1/4 cup Water
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Chinese Rice Wine
- 1 tsp Five Spice Powder
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Powder
Instructions
- Grind the sugar, small onions, Ginger, and garlic to a fine paste.
- Add water, soy sauce, Chinese rice wine, five spice powder, and black pepper powder to the paste. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a pan and boil over medium heat. Simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Let cool.
- Marinate the chicken pieces in the cooled mixture for 2 hours in the fridge, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Drain excess marinade and pat the chicken dry.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
- Deep fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with rice.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I ensure my Five Spice Fried Chicken is crispy?
To ensure your Five Spice Fried Chicken is crispy, pat the chicken pieces dry after marinating. This removes excess moisture that can prevent the coating from crisping up. Additionally, ensure your oil is heated to around 350°F before adding the chicken. Frying at the right temperature helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior without making the chicken greasy.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake Five Spice Fried Chicken for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F. After marinating and patting the chicken dry, place the pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is crispy. You can flip the pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Five Spice Fried Chicken?
Five-spice fried Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a simple vegetable stir-fry. For a complete meal, you can also serve it with a fresh salad or some sautéed greens. For complementary dishes, consider trying Sweet and Sour Chicken or General Tso’s Chicken for a varied and flavorful meal.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavour, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. If you have more time, you can marinate it overnight to allow the spices to infuse the meat thoroughly. Just keep the marinating chicken in the refrigerator to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
