Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight during my travels through Asia, where street vendors served crispy fried chicken with spicy sauces. Over time, I perfect my own rendition to capture those vibrant flavors and textures. Each bite is a reminder of the bustling markets and rich culinary traditions I experienced. It has become a staple in my dinner repertoire, loved by family and friends alike."

As a culinary expert specializing in Asian cuisine, I have spent years exploring the diverse flavors and techniques of this rich culinary tradition. My passion for creating dinner recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare has led to countless satisfied diners. I believe every dish tells a story, and I strive to share these stories through my cooking.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight served on a plate

Why This Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight Recipe Works

Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight stands out due to its perfect balance of crunch and spice. The marinated chicken allows for deep flavor penetration, while the double coating of flour and cornstarch provides an unbeatable crunch. The use of hot sauce adds a delightful spicy kick that elevates the dish, making it an instant favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors.

The technique of frying the chicken in hot oil ensures an even and crispy texture all around. With each piece fried to golden perfection, this dish delivers a satisfying crunch that complements the juicy chicken inside. By following this recipe, you can recreate restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest results, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in the flour mixture ahead of time. Just keep the coated chicken in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry it. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. However, it's best to fry just before serving for optimal crispiness.

If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly. This works well in marinades and will provide the needed acidity for the chicken.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a golden-brown crust on the outside. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Additionally, the chicken should be crispy to the touch, indicating that it has been fried long enough.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken after it has cooled. Store it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to eat, reheat directly from the freezer in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider offering dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or a tangy soy sauce.

Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup. Reheat in the oven to help restore some of the original crispiness.

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken in advance. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to develop while ensuring that you have a quick meal option ready for dinner.

The best way to reheat Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may be too dry if overcooked, resulting in tough meat and a lack of moisture.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure the chicken is fried at the correct temperature and not for too long. Marinating the chicken beforehand also helps retain moisture during cooking.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken is not crispy, it may not have been fried at the right temperature or for the correct duration.

Solution: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can result in a tough texture and burnt coating.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken. Fry in smaller batches to ensure even cooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Chicken that is undercooked in the center can pose a food safety risk.

Recovery: To recover undercooked chicken, return it to the oil and fry for additional time until it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cut into a piece to check for doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior indicates that the oil may have been too hot, leading to a charred crust before the chicken was fully cooked.

Prevention: To prevent burning, maintain a consistent frying temperature and adjust the heat as needed. If the oil starts to smoke, reduce the heat immediately.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or citrus juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the chicken is too salty, serve it with a side of plain rice to help mellow the saltiness.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, consider adding more spices or a touch of hot sauce to enhance the overall taste.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight

The key ingredients in Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight include fresh chicken, spices, and a flavorful marinade. Each component plays a vital role in delivering a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. The combination of spices adds depth to the flavor profile, while the marination process enhances the juiciness of the chicken.

It's important to use quality ingredients, especially the chicken, to achieve the best results. Fresh, high-quality chicken will yield a more tender and flavorful dish. Additionally, using freshly ground spices can enhance the overall taste, making every bite a delightful experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless skinless chicken thighs also work well. Always choose fresh chicken for optimal taste.
  • Hot Sauce: Choose a hot sauce that you enjoy, as it will greatly affect the flavor of the dish. Experiment with different brands to find your perfect level of heat.
  • Spices: Freshly ground spices can make a significant difference in flavor. If possible, grind your own spices to enhance the aroma and taste of the dish.
Cooking process for Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight is straightforward and rewarding. By marinating the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce, you infuse flavor and tenderness. The frying technique is crucial; ensuring the oil reaches the right temperature allows for even cooking and a crispy exterior.

Achieving perfect results comes down to timing and temperature. Monitor the oil temperature closely and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly, resulting in a delicious and crispy chicken delight.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight

The key technique for this recipe is the marination process combined with the double coating of the flour mixture. Allowing the chicken to soak in the buttermilk and hot sauce brings moisture and flavor, while dredging it in the seasoned flour and cornstarch creates an ultra-crispy crust when fried.

Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium
  • 2 tbsp honey
    For sweetness
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
    For extra heat

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
    For extra crispiness
  • 2 tsp paprika
    For color and flavor
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
    For spiciness
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For depth of flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For balanced taste
  • 1/2 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
    For marination
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
    For flavor
  • 1 cup cooking oil
    For frying
  • 2 green onions
    Chopped, for garnish
  • Sesame seeds
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade

    In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Coat Chicken

    Remove chicken from marinade and allow excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it's well coated.

  4. Heat Oil

    In a large pan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  5. Fry Chicken

    Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches for 6-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

  6. Drain Excess Oil

    Once cooked, remove chicken from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  7. Garnish

    Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

  8. Serve

    Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside steamed rice.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftover Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which leads to sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Spicy Chicken Delight is perfect when served alongside steamed jasmine rice or a fresh garden salad. For an added kick, pair it with a homemade spicy dipping sauce or sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

For a different twist, try using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more juiciness. You can also experiment with different spice blends in the flour mixture to create your own version of this delicious recipe.