As the sun sets and the vibrant lights of the night market flicker to life, the alluring aroma of fried chicken wafts through the air, drawing in eager food lovers. This Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken receives its fame from bustling night markets, where each bite promises an explosion of flavor. I remember the first time I took a bite; the crispy batter shattered perfectly to reveal tender, juicy chicken that left me craving more.
With just a handful of ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can recreate this street food masterpiece in your own kitchen. This recipe captures the essence of that magical experience, transforming your home into a mini night market. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want something delicious and fulfilling after a long day, this Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken is your solution. Get ready for an easy, flavorful adventure that will make weeknight dinners something to celebrate!
Why is Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken a Must-Try?
Crispy Perfection: This recipe delivers a fantastic crunch that enhances the juicy chicken inside.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you can whip this up without gourmet skills.
Authentic Street Food Flavor: Experience the vibrant taste of Taiwanese night markets right at your dinner table.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it solo or with your favorite sides, like a refreshing salad or bubble tea, for a complete meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this XXL fried chicken is sure to impress family and friends with its impressive size and delightful taste!
Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- Chicken Breast – Use large breasts, butterflied and flattened for even frying.
- Chinese Cooking Wine or Beer – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with dry sherry if needed.
- Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; low-sodium soy sauce can be used to reduce sodium intake.
- Five-Spice Powder – Offers an aromatic spice blend; adjust quantity for a stronger flavor.
- White Pepper – Adds heat and depth; black pepper can work as a substitute.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is recommended for the best savory flavor, though garlic powder could be used in a pinch.
For the Batter
- Tapioca Starch or Sweet Potato Flour – Creates the desired crispiness; cornstarch can be an alternative.
- Eggs – Binds the batter to the chicken; consider flax or chia eggs for a vegan option.
- Corn Starch – Helps achieve extra crunch; can be omitted but is recommended for texture.
For the Seasoning Mix
- Chili Powder – Use according to spice preference, allowing for a lovely kick.
- Paprika – Adds color and flavor; adjust the amount based on your taste.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory profile; fresh garlic can also be used if preferred.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors; adjust to your liking.
Indulge in the deliciousness of this Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken (Night Market Style) and bring the vibrant taste of Taiwan’s night markets into your home!
How to Make Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken
-
Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, five-spice powder, white pepper, and grated garlic. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes for maximum flavor.
-
Prepare the Batter: In another bowl, beat the eggs and combine them with cornstarch, stirring until smooth. This mixture will create a luscious coating for the chicken.
-
Batter the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken and dip each piece into the egg mixture. Then roll it in tapioca starch, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the batter to set.
-
Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces, frying for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through to achieve even cooking.
-
Season and Serve: Once fried, remove the chicken and let it rest briefly on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Generously sprinkle your seasoning mix over the hot chicken before serving to enhance flavors.
Optional: Serve alongside a tangy dipping sauce for extra zest!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken?
Pair your vibrant dish with thoughtful sides to create a memorable meal experience. Here’s how to round out your feast with delicious accompaniments.
-
Cool Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers and a tangy dressing perfectly balances the crispy, savory notes of the chicken.
-
Pineapple Fried Rice: The slight sweetness of pineapple adds a tropical flair, complementing the umami flavors in the fried chicken beautifully.
-
Bubble Tea: This classic Taiwanese drink offers a fun and sweet contrast, making for a delightful sip between bites of savory chicken.
-
Kimchi: The spicy crunch of kimchi provides a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile while adding a probiotic boost.
-
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy and light, these rolls are perfect for dipping, bringing varied texture and freshness to your table.
-
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet option harmonizes textures and flavors, leaving your guests with a sweet finish after indulging in the savory chicken.
Expert Tips for Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken
- Hot Oil Required: Ensure the oil reaches around 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken; this prevents sogginess and guarantees a perfect crispy exterior.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in uneven cooking and less crispy wings.
- Resting Time: After frying, allow the chicken to rest on paper towels. This step absorbs excess oil, making your Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken even more enjoyable and crispy.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Taste your seasoning mix before sprinkling. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder to suit your palate.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Fresh aromatics contribute significantly to your chicken’s success.
- Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to try chicken thighs instead of breasts or mix in shallots for a unique twist on this classic Taiwanese street food recipe.
Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this recipe to match your taste buds’ preferences!
- Spicy Twist: Add more chili powder to the seasoning for a fiery kick that lingers with each bite, igniting your taste buds!
- Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor and juicy texture; your chicken will turn extra tender and delicious.
- Garlic Alternatives: Swap fresh garlic for shallots for a milder yet aromatic experience; their sweetness complements the batter beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour instead of tapioca starch and cornstarch for those with gluten sensitivities; a satisfying crunch is still achievable!
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the batter for a fragrant twist; this will give your chicken an aromatic lift.
- Crispy Veggie Add-In: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini into the batter for added color, crunch, and nutrition; it’s a delightful surprise.
- Savory Marinade: Replace Chinese cooking wine with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a tangier, zesty marinade; it offers a fresh, uplifting flavor.
- Asian Spice Kick: Experiment with a dash of Szechuan peppercorns or chili flakes for an exhilarating taste that brings the heat without overpowering the dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken (Night Market Style) bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to infuse it with flavor. Simply combine your marinade ingredients and coat the chicken breasts, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can prepare the batter (egg and cornstarch mixture) and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, dip the marinated chicken in the prepared batter and fry as directed. This ensures that your dish remains just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its juicy texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To revive the crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Avoid using a microwave as it may make the batter soggy.
Serving Freshness: Fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh right after cooking. However, if you need to store it, following these steps will help you maintain the essence of this delightful Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken.
Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken for this recipe?
When choosing chicken breasts for your Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken, opt for large, fresh breasts. They should feel firm and not have any dark spots or an off smell. Butterflying and flattening the chicken ensures even frying and a juicy result.
How should I store leftover fried chicken?
Store your leftover Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain its flavor and texture. To enjoy it later, simply reheat in an oven to revive the crispy coating.
Can I freeze Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze your fried chicken by placing it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once it’s frozen solid, transfer the pieces to an airtight freezer-safe bag. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Why is my fried chicken soggy?
If your Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken turns out soggy, it might be due to frying in oil that wasn’t hot enough. Make sure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C). Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this reduces the oil temperature and prevents proper crisping.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can substitute eggs with flax or chia eggs for a vegan option. Also, check the ingredients for allergens, especially if you’re serving guests. For those sensitive to gluten, ensure you use gluten-free alternatives for the starches and sauces.
** How can I ensure the batter sticks well to the chicken?**
To achieve a better adherence of the batter to your Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken, make sure to let the coated chicken rest for about 5 minutes before frying. This allows the coating to set and cling better during cooking. Additionally, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly marinated will help enhance the final flavor and coating texture.
Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Night Market Style Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, five-spice powder, white pepper, and grated garlic. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes for maximum flavor.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and combine them with cornstarch, stirring until smooth. This mixture will create a luscious coating for the chicken.
- Take the marinated chicken and dip each piece into the egg mixture. Then roll it in tapioca starch, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces, frying for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through.
- Once fried, remove the chicken and let it rest briefly on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Generously sprinkle your seasoning mix over the hot chicken before serving.