Crispy Fried Chicken Chunks (香炸鸡块)

香炸鸡块

Crispy Fried Chicken Chunks (香炸鸡块) — Home-styleNorthern China home cooking.

Ingredients

• chicken breast
• all-purpose flour
• cornstarch
• five-spice powder
• garlic powder
• egg
• neutral oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Cut chicken into 3cm cubes, marinate with soy sauce, wine, and half the spices for 20 minutes. (Meat absorbs marinade, surface becomes glossy)
2. Mix flour, cornstarch, and remaining spices. Dredge chicken pieces until lightly coated. (White coating visible, not thick)
3. Dip floured chicken in beaten egg, then coat again in flour mixture. (Second coating is textured, not smooth)
4. Heat oil to 170°C, fry chicken 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal). (Crust deep golden, bubbles moderate)
5. Drain on rack, sprinkle with extra five-spice and salt. Serve with sweet chili sauce. (Crust crackles when tapped, steam escapes)