Chinese Chicken Fingers: A Delicious Recipe for Crispy, Flavorful Snacks

Chinese Chicken Fingers are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the crispy texture of fried chicken with the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine. As a fan of both comfort food and Asian flavors, I find that these chicken fingers are not only a hit at family gatherings but also a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner. The history of this dish reflects the fusion of cultures, where traditional Chinese spices and cooking techniques meet the beloved concept of finger food, making it a perfect snack or appetizer.

People love Chinese Chicken Fingers for their irresistible crunch and savory taste, which is enhanced by a variety of dipping sauces. The convenience of preparing these chicken fingers at home means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without the hassle of dining out. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy meal, Chinese Chicken Fingers are sure to please everyone at the table. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that brings together the best of both worlds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup cold water
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips. Aim for about 1-inch wide pieces to ensure they cook evenly. You can also use chicken tenders if you prefer, as they are already in a convenient shape. 2. Once the chicken is cut, place the strips in a bowl and season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and five-spice powder. Mix well to ensure all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the spices. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with flavor.

Preparing the Batter

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and five-spice powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. 4. In a separate bowl, beat the two large eggs and then add the cold water. Mix until combined. This egg mixture will help create a light and crispy batter. 5. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking continuously. The goal is to create a smooth batter that is not too thick or too runny. If it feels too thick, you can add a little more water, but be careful not to overdo it. The batter should be able to coat the chicken strips without dripping excessively.

Frying the Chicken Fingers

6. In a large, deep skillet or a wok, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go. 7. While the oil is heating, take the marinated chicken strips and dip each piece into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing them in the hot oil. 8. Carefully place the battered chicken strips into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them halfway through for even cooking. 9. Once cooked, remove the chicken fingers from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy.

Making the Dipping Sauce

10. While the chicken fingers are frying, let’s whip up a quick dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined. This sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.

Assembling and Serving

11. Once all the chicken fingers are fried and the dipping sauce is ready, it’s time to plate everything. Arrange the chicken fingers on a serving platter. 12. Drizzle a little of the dipping sauce over the chicken fingers for presentation, and serve the remaining sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping. 13. For a final touch, sprinkle some chopped green onions over the chicken fingers. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that enhances the dish.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Fingers

14. If you want to make these chicken fingers even more flavorful, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and a bit of ginger for a few hours before breading. This will add an extra layer of taste. 15. For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken fingers instead

Conclusion:

In summary, these Chinese Chicken Fingers are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snacking game or impress guests at their next gathering. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful marinade, and crispy coating creates a delightful experience that is both satisfying and delicious. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like sweet and sour, soy sauce, or even a spicy chili sauce for those who like a kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some sesame seeds or chopped green onions to the coating for an extra layer of flavor and texture. You can also swap out the chicken for tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian twist that still packs a punch. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these Chinese Chicken Fingers, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s spread the joy of cooking together and make these delicious Chinese Chicken Fingers a staple in our kitchens. Happy cooking! Print