Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of China with these 18 mouthwatering crispy fried chicken recipes. From spicy Sichuan dishes to sweet and sour delights, we’ve got you covered with a diverse array of flavor profiles and cooking methods.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the various regions of China, showcasing popular street food, home-cooked meals, and restaurant favorites that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these recipes will guide you in creating crispy, juicy, and oh-so-delicious Chinese fried chicken dishes.
Sichuan Spicy Fried Chicken
This Sichuan-style fried chicken recipe is a classic Chinese dish that combines crispy fried chicken with the bold flavors of Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. It’s a spicy treat that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir until they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. In a small bowl, mix together toasted Sichuan peppercorns and chili flakes.
7. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the fried chicken.
8. Serve hot and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Garlic Fried Chicken
Get ready for a sweet and savory twist on classic fried chicken! This Honey Garlic Fried Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of sticky honey, pungent garlic, and crispy fried goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat frying oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Five-Spice Crispy Fried Chicken
This recipe combines the classic comfort of fried chicken with the warm, aromatic flavors of five-spice powder, creating a crispy and addictive snack. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add five-spice powder and mix until combined.
3. Pour in buttermilk and stir until the mixture forms a thick batter.
4. Dip each chicken piece into the batter, coating completely.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 8-10 minutes per batch).
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
General Tso’s Fried Chicken
A twist on traditional fried chicken, this General Tso’s version adds a sweet and spicy kick from the iconic Chinese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side).
5. While the chicken is still warm, toss with General Tso’s sauce to coat.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Orange Glazed Fried Chicken
A twist on classic fried chicken, this Orange Glazed Fried Chicken recipe adds a burst of citrusy flavor to the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, and breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
6. While the chicken is cooking, mix together orange juice and honey in a small bowl.
7. Once the chicken is done, brush with the orange glaze and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Fried Chicken Bites
Kung Pao Fried Chicken Bites: A Spicy Twist on Classic Fried Chicken
These crispy fried chicken bites are infused with the bold flavors of Kung Pao sauce, peanuts, and chili peppers. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup Kung Pao sauce (see note)
– 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip chicken pieces in flour mixture, then panko breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry chicken bites for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, mix Kung Pao sauce with chopped peanuts.
7. Toss fried chicken bites in the Kung Pao peanut mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Fried Chicken
A classic Chinese-American dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this sweet and sour fried chicken is a crowd-pleaser. With its tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile, it’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with flour mixture again.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes).
5. Remove chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve fried chicken with sweet and sour sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Black Pepper Fried Chicken
Elevate your fried chicken game with this bold and aromatic recipe that combines the warmth of black pepper with crispy, golden-brown goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken
Brighten up your meal with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines the classic comfort of fried chicken with the freshness of lemon and pepper.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
6. Sprinkle with lemon zest and drizzle with lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sesame Fried Chicken with Scallions
Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, this Sesame Fried Chicken with Scallions is a flavorful and aromatic twist on classic fried chicken. The combination of crispy sesame seeds and fragrant scallions adds depth and texture to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dredge floured chicken pieces in sesame seeds to coat evenly.
5. Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry coated chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Ginger Fried Chicken
This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and ginger with crispy fried chicken, creating a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chili Oil Fried Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the crunch of fried chicken wings with the bold flavor of chili oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chili oil (or more to taste)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss the chicken wings with the flour mixture until fully coated.
4. Fry the chicken wings in batches for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove the fried wings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, mix together chili oil and a pinch of salt (optional).
7. Toss the fried wings with the chili oil mixture until evenly coated.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cantonese Salt and Pepper Fried Chicken
A classic Cantonese dish that never fails to satisfy, this salt and pepper fried chicken recipe is a staple of Chinese cuisine. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor from the perfect balance of salt and pepper.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon white peppercorns, crushed
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon Szechuan pepper, crushed (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces and cornstarch. Toss until coated.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Sprinkle salt, white pepper, and Szechuan pepper (if using) evenly over the chicken.
6. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Soy Sauce Fried Chicken
This sweet and savory chicken dish is a twist on traditional fried chicken, with the added depth of sticky soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with flour mixture again.
4. Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey.
7. Brush the sticky soy sauce mixture on fried chicken during last minute of cooking.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mapo Tofu Fried Chicken
Mapo Tofu Fried Chicken: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite!
This recipe combines the creamy richness of mapo tofu with the crispy texture of fried chicken, resulting in a mouthwatering fusion that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup mapo tofu (or substitute with spicy peanut butter)
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat with cornstarch.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the mapo tofu and a pinch of salt.
6. Serve the fried chicken with a drizzle of the mapo tofu sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Fried Chicken with Hoisin Glaze
Crispy Fried Chicken with Hoisin Glaze Recipe
Elevate your fried chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the crunch of crispy breading with the depth of hoisin glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hoisin Glaze (see below)
Hoisin Glaze:
– 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels.
7. Brush with Hoisin Glaze during the last minute of frying.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Fried Chicken Stir-Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this sweet and savory pineapple fried chicken dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines the crispy texture of fried chicken with the tropical flavors of pineapple, all in one flavorful and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the pineapple chunks to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Cook for an additional minute, until the chicken is coated in the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Chicken with Spicy Szechuan Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of crispy fried chicken and bold Asian flavors with this Spicy Szechuan Fried Chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Szechuan Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip chicken pieces into buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with Spicy Szechuan Sauce.
Spicy Szechuan Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these 18 crispy Chinese fried chicken recipes! From spicy Sichuan-style to sweet and sour, there’s something for everyone. Try making General Tso’s Fried Chicken or Orange Glazed Fried Chicken for a flavorful twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Kung Pao Fried Chicken Bites or Chili Oil Fried Chicken Wings. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection of recipes has got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, these crispy fried chicken dishes are sure to please.
