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Crispy Chicken Bites with Tangy Sauce

This dish involves coating bite-sized pieces of chicken in a seasoned batter and frying them until crispy. The chicken is then coated with a vibrant, tangy sauce that balances sweetness and acidity, resulting in tender, juicy interior with a crunchy exterior and a glossy, flavorful coating. The final appearance features golden-brown chicken bites coated in a bright, sticky sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: fusion
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch for extra crunch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.75 cup water
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup soy sauce for marinade and sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar apple cider or rice vinegar
  • 2 Tablespoons honey or maple syrup for sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks optional, for added flavor

Equipment

  • Bowls for batter
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Cooking thermometer
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and toss with soy sauce, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cover and chill for 10 minutes to marinate.
  2. In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Gradually add water, whisking until the batter is smooth and slightly thickened.
  3. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and dip each piece into the batter, ensuring an even coating.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering and temp reaches about 350°F (175°C).
  5. Add the battered chicken pieces carefully into the hot oil, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
  6. Use tongs to transfer the fried chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining chicken.
  7. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, vinegar, honey, and pineapple chunks. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and pineapple is heated through.
  8. Add the fried chicken bites into the sauce and toss gently to coat evenly, allowing the sauce to cling to the crispy exterior.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra pineapple if desired, and enjoy the crispy, glossy bites with tangy, sweet flavor.

Notes

Use a thermometer to ensure proper frying temperature. Adjust sweetness or tanginess in the sauce by adding more honey or vinegar to suit your taste.