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Plate of spicy Dragon Chicken garnished with fresh vegetables

Irresistibly Spicy Dragon Chicken

A quick Indo-Chinese delight featuring tender chicken coated in a crispy shell and drenched in a sweet-spicy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indo-Chinese
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs Choose thighs for added moisture and tenderness.
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch Helps achieve a crispy texture.
  • 1 piece Egg White Enhances crispiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth and depth.
  • Vegetable Oil Use high smoke point oil like canola or peanut.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Imparts a nutty flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Garlic, minced Fundamental flavor base.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced Adds warmth and spice.
  • 2-3 Dried Red Chilies or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1/2 cup Tomato Ketchup Balances spice with sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Adds umami.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Garlic Sauce Introduces heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Vinegar Provides a tangy note.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar or Honey Sweetens the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup Water Use as needed to loosen the sauce.
For Garnish
  • Sliced Green Onions Adds freshness.
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds Enhances flavor.
  • Thin Strips of Fried Onion or Bell Pepper Adds extra crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate with egg white, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper for about 15 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Fry the chicken until golden and crispy, then set aside on a plate.
  4. In the same pan, add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Fry until fragrant.
  5. Add the sauces: ketchup, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, vinegar, and sugar or honey. Stir well.
  6. Return the chicken to the pan, mix to coat everything in the sauce, adding water if needed.
  7. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fried onion or bell pepper. Serve hot!

Notes

Short on time? Use pre-cut chicken. For a sweeter taste, swap sugar for honey. Add a splash of pineapple juice for a tangy twist. Adjust spice levels to your preference, and serve over stir-fried noodles for a more substantial meal.