Chilli Chicken Recipe: The Perfect Indo-Chinese Fusion Dish

Chilli Chicken Recipe 

Chilli Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. This Indo-Chinese creation is a favorite in many households and restaurants across the world, particularly in India, where Chinese cooking techniques are combined with local ingredients and spices. Whether you prefer it dry or with gravy, Chilli Chicken is quick and easy to make at home. 

Follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect Chilli Chicken for your next meal!

What is Chilli Chicken?

Chilli Chicken is a popular dish that consists of crispy fried chicken pieces tossed in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, chili sauce, and vinegar. It’s often stir-fried with onions, bell peppers, and green chilies, making it both crunchy and juicy. The key to great Chilli Chicken is achieving the perfect balance of spiciness, sweetness, and a tangy zing from the sauces.

Ingredients for Chilli Chicken

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish:

For Marinating the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken (thighs or breast), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons cornflour
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce and Stir-Fry:

• 1 onion, cubed
• 1 green bell pepper, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, cubed
• 3-4 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons red chili sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 tablespoon cornflour mixed in 1/4 cup water (for thickening)
• Fresh spring onions for garnish

Equipment Needed

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Before starting, make sure you have these kitchen tools:

1. Mixing bowls for marinating
2. A wok or deep frying pan
3. A spatula for stir-frying
4. Paper towels for draining excess oil

Step-by-Step Chilli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornflour, all-purpose flour, soy sauce, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, egg, and a pinch of salt. 

Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. 

Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to absorb.

Step 2: Shallow Frying or Deep Frying the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. 

Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. 

Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. 

Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Cooking the Peppers, Onions, and Garlic

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In a separate wok or large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. 

Add chopped ginger, garlic, and green chilies, and stir-fry until fragrant. 

Add the cubed onions and bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crunchy.

Step 4: Adding Soy Sauce, Chili Sauce, and Vinegar

Lower the heat and add soy sauce, red chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and vinegar to the stir-fried vegetables. 

Stir well to coat the veggies in the sauce. 

If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornflour slurry (cornflour mixed with water) and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Tossing the Chicken in the Spicy Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, toss the fried chicken pieces back into the pan. 

Stir everything together so that the chicken is coated in the sauce. 

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all the flavors.

Also read :Chilli Chicken Recipe: The Perfect Indo-Chinese Fusion Dish

Tips for the Best Chilli Chicken

1. For Crispy Chicken: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb excess oil and won’t turn crispy.
2. Adjust Spice Levels: You can make your Chilli Chicken spicier by adding more green chilies or using a hotter variety of chili sauce. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of chili sauce.
3. Vegetarian Alternative: You can swap the chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version of Chilli Chicken.

Chilli Chicken Variations

Dry Chilli Chicken

Dry Chilli Chicken is a perfect appetizer where the chicken is coated in a thick, spicy sauce without too much gravy. It’s crunchy and flavorful, making it a great starter for parties.

Gravy Chilli Chicken

If you prefer a saucier dish, add extra water or chicken stock to create a gravy. This version pairs well with steamed rice or noodles and is a complete meal on its own.

Schezwan Chilli Chicken

For a more intense flavor, try adding Schezwan sauce to your recipe. It gives the dish a fiery kick and a bold, garlicky taste that fans of spicy food will love.

Serving Suggestions for Chilli Chicken

Chilli Chicken is best served hot with a variety of sides:

1. Fried Rice: Chilli Chicken pairs beautifully with classic egg fried rice or vegetable fried rice.
2. Noodles: Serve it with Hakka noodles or stir-fried noodles for a complete meal.
3. As an Appetizer: Dry Chilli Chicken can be enjoyed as a stand-alone starter, especially when garnished with fresh spring onions.

Storing and Reheating Chilli Chicken

Also read :Chilli Chicken Recipe: The Perfect Indo-Chinese Fusion Dish

Chilli Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a hot pan with a splash of water or oil to maintain the sauce's consistency and re-crisp the chicken. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the chicken soggy.

Nutritional Information of Chilli Chicken

A serving of Chilli Chicken provides around 350-400  calories, depending on the cooking method and amount of oil used. It’s a high-protein dish, but be mindful of the deep frying and sauces, which can increase the calorie count.

Why Make Chilli Chicken at Home?

Making Chilli Chicken at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and healthier dish. You can adjust the spice levels, sauces, and even the type of vegetables based on your preference. Plus, homemade Chilli Chicken is far more cost-effective than ordering from a restaurant!

Conclusion

Chilli Chicken is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer it dry as an appetizer or with gravy as a main course, this Indo-Chinese favorite is sure to please everyone at the table. With this step-by-step recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the delicious taste of restaurant-style Chilli Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chilli Chicken without frying?  

Yes, you can bake or air-fry the chicken for a healthier version. While it may not be as crispy, it will still taste great.

2. Is Chilli Chicken gluten-free?  

If you substitute the soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, Chilli Chicken can be made gluten-free.

3. Can I use boneless chicken breast instead of thighs?  

Yes, boneless chicken breast works well, but chicken thighs tend to stay juicier during frying.

4. How spicy is Chilli Chicken?  

Chilli Chicken can range from mildly spicy to very spicy, depending on the amount of chili sauce and green chilies used. Adjust the spice level to your liking.

5. How long does Chilli Chicken last in the fridge?  

Chilli Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.