Garlic and chicken—a match made in culinary heaven! This recipe delivers crispy, succulent chicken coated in a fragrant, garlicky sauce that's simply irresistible. Forget takeout; this dish is surprisingly easy to make at home and will quickly become a family favorite. We'll cover everything from prepping the chicken to achieving that perfect crispy skin, ensuring your meal is a resounding success.
What Makes This Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it focuses on achieving maximum crispiness while maintaining juicy, tender chicken. We'll use a double-coating method and a high-heat frying technique to lock in moisture and create that satisfying crunch. The flavorful garlic sauce is both simple and complex, balancing savory, sweet, and umami notes. It’s adaptable too; easily customize it to your spice preference!
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, but thighs stay juicier)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil, for frying
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For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
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First Coat: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
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Second Coat: In a separate shallow dish, place the cornstarch. Add the floured chicken pieces and toss again to coat thoroughly. The double coating helps create an extra crispy crust.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of chicken sizzles immediately when added. Carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
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Make the Garlic Sauce: While the chicken is frying, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, ginger (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
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Combine and Serve: Add the fried chicken to the garlic sauce and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they tend to dry out more easily than thighs. Reduce the frying time slightly to prevent overcooking.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
Broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snow peas would be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
While baking won't produce the same level of crispiness, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken:
- Dry the chicken thoroughly: This is the key to crispy skin.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying helps it retain its juices.
This crispy garlic chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you'll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time. Enjoy!
