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Prep Time15
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Cook Time20
Firecracker Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine known for its bold, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The name “Firecracker” refers to the dish’s fiery spiciness, akin to an explosive firecracker. It originated as a fusion of traditional Chinese cooking with American tastes, particularly the love for intense, balanced flavors.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Large eggs, beaten
Cornstarch
All-purpose flour
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Frying oil
For the Sauce
Hot sauce (like Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
Brown sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Garlic, minced
Ginger, minced
Nutrition
Per serving
- Daily Value*
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Calories560
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Protein30 g
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Carbohydrates60 g
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Fat20 g
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Fiber2 g
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Sugar30 g
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Sodium1100 mg
Instructions
Mix the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the flour mixture then dip them again into the beaten eggs. Set aside.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot (about 180°C), fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
In a saucepan, combine the hot sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables.
Tips and Substitutions
- For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a milder hot sauce.
- Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred.
- Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for extra sweetness.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
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