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–+ servings
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Crispy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken That Will Spice Up Snack Time

Discover the irresistible flavors of Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, a crunchy and savory snack that brings the vibrant essence of Taiwan to your kitchen.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs Recommended for juicy, tender bites
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce Adds savory umami depth
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) Introduces a sweet note
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Brings aromatic flavor
  • ½ tsp grated ginger Offers warm spice
  • ½ tsp white pepper Adds a mild peppery bite
  • ½ tsp five-spice powder Infuses fragrant flavor
  • ½ tsp sugar Balances savory elements
  • ¼ tsp salt Essential for flavor
For the Coating
  • ½ cup sweet potato starch (or cornstarch) Creates a light, crispy coating
  • ½ tsp baking powder Helps achieve crisper crust
For Frying
  • Neutral oil (vegetable or peanut oil) Necessary for deep frying
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh Thai basil leaves For added flavor and authenticity

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • deep pot or fryer
  • kitchen thermometer
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, white pepper, five-spice powder, sugar, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweet potato starch and baking powder for the coating.
  3. After marination, coat each chicken piece with the sweet potato starch mixture.
  4. Heat enough neutral oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the coated chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Drain fried chicken on paper towels; optionally fry Thai basil leaves for garnish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure to avoid overcrowding the fryer and maintain the oil temperature for a crispy texture.

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