Chili Chicken: A Delicious Indo-Chinese Recipe To Make At Home

Chili chicken is a savory and immensely popular dish that blends the spicy and savory tastes of Indian and Chinese cuisines. It's perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even as a standalone meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, making chili chicken at home is easy and rewarding. Here’s a detailed recipe to prepare this delicious dish in your kitchen.

Ingredients

The ingredients for chili chicken are divided into two parts: those needed for marinating the chicken and those for making the sauce.

For Marination:

• 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For The Sauce:

• Oil for deep frying (and 2 tablespoons for stir-frying)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 4-5 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 tablespoon cornflour mixed with 3 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Salt to taste
• Chopped spring onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate The Chicken

• Preparation: Start by dusting and cutting the boneless chicken into bite-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and perfect coating with the spices.
• Marination: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, vinegar, ginger-garlic paste, cornstarch, beaten egg, salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Mix everything carefully so that each piece of chicken is well-coated.
• Rest Time: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavors, making the chicken juicy and succulent.

Step 2: Fry The Chicken

• Heating the Oil: Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before frying, as this will help realize a crispy exterior.
• Deep Frying: Add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare The Sauce

• Stir-Fry the Aromatics: In a distinct pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute or until the aroma of garlic and ginger fills your kitchen.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry on high heat for 2-3 minutes. The vegetables should remain crisp and vibrant, adding feel to the dish.

Step 4: Make The Sauce

• Flavorful Mix: Lower the heat and add soy sauce, chili sauce, and tomato ketchup. Stir everything together to make a flavorful base.
• Seasoning: Add black pepper and adjust the salt according to taste. Remember that soy sauce already contains salt, so use sparingly.
• Thickening the Sauce: Pour in the cornflour slurry and stir continuously. This will thicken the sauce to a glossy, rich consistency. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine And Serve

• Adding the Chicken: Add the fried chicken pieces to the wok and toss well. Make sure every piece is generously coated with the sauce.
• Garnish and Finish: Sprinkle chopped spring onions over the top and give everything a final toss. The dish should look exciting and appetizing, with a balance of colors and textures.

Tips For Perfect Chili Chicken

• Balance The Flavors: The key to a great chili chicken dish is balancing the heat from the green chilies with the tang from the vinegar and the umami of soy sauce. Adjust according to your taste preference.
• Crunchy Vegetables: Do not overcook the onions and bell peppers. They should remain crunchy to add a contrast to the crispy chicken.
• Serving Suggestions: Chili chicken pairs wonderfully with fried rice, noodles, or even steamed rice. You can also serve it as an appetizer with a side of dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Chili chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. By following this recipe, you can bring the taste of your favorite restaurant right into your home. The combination of crispy chicken and spicy, savory sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your homemade chili chicken and feel free to experiment with different levels of heat and seasoning to make the dish your own!