Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of spices fills the kitchen as I sizzle up a batch of Dragon Chicken, the ultimate indulgence that turns a simple weeknight dinner into a flavorful feast. This crispy, restaurant-style dish is a vibrant blend of Indo-Chinese flavors, with tender chicken strips enveloped in a spicy, aromatic sauce kissed by dry red chilies and crunchy cashews. The best part? It’s a stunning crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings or special gatherings. Plus, with a gluten-free option available, it caters to a variety of dietary needs. Ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade delight? Let’s dive into the crispy goodness of Dragon Chicken together! Why is Dragon Chicken so popular? Crispy Perfection: Every bite of this Dragon Chicken is a satisfying crunch, with a delightful balance of spices that will leave your taste buds tingling. Satisfying Flavors: The rich umami from the soy sauce, combined with the heat from chili garlic paste, creates a flavor explosion that’s truly irresistible! Quick & Easy: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish at home, making it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight. Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or toss it in a stir-fry for a unique twist. Pair it with easy sides like Poblano Chicken Tacos or allow it to shine next to Pesto Chicken Broccoli Pasta for delightful meal combinations. Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining guests or cooking for family, this dish is sure to impress, capturing the essence of Indo-Chinese cuisine that everyone loves. Dragon Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breast – Thinly cut boneless skinless chicken will cook quickly and evenly. • Egg – Acts as a binder for the crispy coating; omit for a vegan version or substitute with flaxseed meal. • All-Purpose Flour – Gives crunch; use gluten-free flour for a delightful option. • Corn Starch – Key for achieving maximum crispiness; can be omitted for a lighter dish. For the Sauce • Dark Soy Sauce – Adds depth and a stunning color; regular soy sauce can be used for a lighter version. • Chili Garlic Paste – Infuses the dish with heat; swap in fresh chilies and minced garlic if preferred. • Ginger Garlic Paste – Essential for a robust flavor; use store-bought or make fresh for a personal touch. • Sugar – Balances the spiciness; feel free to adjust or use honey or agave syrup. • Ajinomoto (MSG) – Optional for a savory umami kick; can be left out without compromising flavor. For the Garnish • Cashews – Adds crunch and richness; substitute with peanuts or leave out for a nut-free option. • Dry Red Chilli – Brings additional heat; adjust to taste for a personalized touch. • Onion & Capsicum – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; feel free to use other bell peppers or omit. With these Dragon Chicken ingredients, you’re all set to create a dish that enchants with every mouthful, offering a delightful fusion of flavors right from the comfort of your home. Happy cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dragon Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Begin by cutting the chicken breast into thin strips for quick cooking. In a bowl, combine the chicken with salt, pepper, dark soy sauce, chili garlic paste, ginger garlic paste, egg, all-purpose flour, and cornstarch. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated. Let the mixture marinate for 15 minutes to enhance the flavor and texture. Step 2: Fry the Chicken Heat enough oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat, aiming for around 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken strips in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Step 3: Prepare the Aromatics In a separate pan, add a couple of tablespoons of oil and heat over medium flame. Once hot, toss in the dry red chilies and cashews, frying them for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. This step builds a wonderful aromatic base for your Dragon Chicken, so keep a watchful eye to prevent burning. Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables Add the sliced onion and capsicum to the pan with the fried chilies and cashews. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized. This step enhances the flavors and adds a sweet note that complements the spicy chicken perfectly. Step 5: Create the Sauce Stir in the ginger garlic paste, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, mix in the chili garlic paste, dark soy sauce, tomato ketchup, a pinch of salt, ajinomoto (if using), and sugar. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce Now it’s time to bring your Dragon Chicken together! Add the fried chicken strips to the pan, tossing them gently in the sauce until they’re well coated. This ensures every piece of chicken is enveloped in that deliciously spicy mixture we’ve created. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once coated, remove the pan from the heat. For an added touch, garnish your Dragon Chicken with chopped coriander or spring onions. Serve it hot, accompanied by fried rice or sautéed noodles for a complete meal experience filled with flavor! Dragon Chicken Variations & Substitutions Get ready to unleash your inner chef! With these simple twists and substitutions, you can truly make this Dragon Chicken recipe your own. Prawn Delight: Replace chicken with prawns for a seafood version that’s equally delectable and quick to cook. Tofu Twist: Opt for tofu to create a vegetarian-friendly dish, packed with proteins and flavors! Gluten-Free Upgrade: Use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour to keep the crunch while ensuring a gluten-free option. Crispy Veggies: Toss in zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for a vibrant, veggie-filled version that adds color and nutrients. Nut-Free Crunch: If allergies are a concern, swap cashews for roasted sunflower seeds or simply omit them for a nut-free alternative. Extra Spice: Want more heat? Add a splash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce in the sauce mix to elevate the spice level! Savory Sesame: Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil over the finished dish for an added layer of flavor that complements the spiciness beautifully. Comforting Side: Pair with fragrant coconut rice or fried rice for a complete meal that harmonizes with the complex flavors of the Dragon Chicken. With these variations, every bite of your Dragon Chicken can offer a new and exciting taste experience. Why not also check out how to elevate your meal with a side of Hot Honey Chicken or a comforting Chicken Dumplings Cozy? Happy customizing! What to Serve with Spicy and Crispy Dragon Chicken? Elevate your dining experience by pairing the vibrant flavors of Dragon Chicken with delightful sides that balance its bold, spicy notes. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, this rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a comforting foundation for your meal. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bright and crunchy, a medley of vegetables adds freshness and texture, complementing the richness of the chicken. Toss with garlic and soy sauce for an extra kick! Crispy Spring Rolls: These bite-sized delights provide a satisfying crunch and pack an array of savory flavors, perfect for rounding out your Indo-Chinese feast. Egg Fried Rice: This classic side is a hearty addition; the eggs provide protein while the rice makes a wonderful partner to the spicy dish. Cold Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and citrus dressing offers a palate-cleansing contrast to the savory depth of your Dragon Chicken. Peanut Noodles: Tossed in a creamy, nutty sauce, these noodles add a comforting element that balances the heat of the chicken, ensuring everyone keeps coming back for more. Mango Lassi: This cool yogurt drink offsets the spiciness with its sweet, creamy texture; an ideal way to cleanse your palate after each bite! Chili Vinegar Sauce: A drizzle of this tangy-sour sauce can enhance the flavor burst and offer an extra layer of spice for those who crave a kick. These pairings will transform your meal into a delightful culinary adventure, making every bite an unforgettable experience! Make Ahead Options Preparing Dragon Chicken ahead of time is a fantastic strategy for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken strips and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. This not only increases the flavor, allowing the spices to penetrate deeply, but also saves valuable time when you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can fry the chicken pieces and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for the same duration. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven before tossing them in the sauce. When it’s time to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, combine with the sauce and add the pre-cooked chicken to have a restaurant-quality Dragon Chicken ready in minutes! Expert Tips for Dragon Chicken Cut Uniformly: Ensure chicken strips are cut into even sizes for consistent cooking; this prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain underdone. Spice Control: Adjust the amount of chili garlic paste and dry red chilies based on your spice tolerance; start with less and add more if desired. Crispy Coating: For maximum crunch, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg mixture and then the flour again before frying. Watch the Oil Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature (around 350°F) is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture without greasiness. Sauciness Preference: If you love a saucier Dragon Chicken, consider increasing the sauce ingredients; a splash of water can help reach your desired consistency as it thickens. Customize Ingredients: Feel free to experiment! Substitute proteins or tweak the veggies to suit your taste preferences, while keeping the focus on that delicious Dragon Chicken flavor! How to Store and Freeze Dragon Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Dragon Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its flavor while preventing spoilage. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked Dragon Chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat Dragon Chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This preserves its crispy texture better than a microwave. Airtight Packing: For best results in storage, ensure that the chicken is completely cooled before packing to avoid condensation, which could make it soggy. Dragon Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for Dragon Chicken? Absolutely! It’s best to use thinly cut boneless skinless chicken breast for this recipe. This not only ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly but also keeps it juicy and tender inside while achieving that crispy outer layer. If you want to mix it up, chicken thighs can work beautifully too, offering a richer flavor. How long can I store leftover Dragon Chicken? You can store your delicious Dragon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This storage helps maintain both its flavors and texture. Just remember, the longer it sits, the more it may lose its crispiness, so I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best experience! Can I freeze Dragon Chicken, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze cooked Dragon Chicken! Simply place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much excess air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy goodness. How do I troubleshoot if my Dragon Chicken turns out soggy? If your Dragon Chicken ends up soggy, it might be due to one of two main reasons. First, ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before adding the chicken; low temperature can lead to greasy, soggy chicken. Second, make sure to drain the fried chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil after frying. If needed, you can always do a second fry for added crispiness, but be cautious of overcooking! Can I modify this Dragon Chicken recipe for dietary preferences? Very! You can make this recipe vegan by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempura-battered vegetables and omitting the egg. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and cornstarch as noted in the ingredients. Always check the labels, especially for soy sauce, to ensure they’re gluten-free. What ingredients should I avoid if I have allergies? If you or your guests have allergies, it’s essential to modify the recipe accordingly. For nut allergies, you can skip the cashews or substitute with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Additionally, individuals with soy allergies should opt for coconut aminos or a similar soy-free alternative when preparing the sauce. Always confirm that all condiments used, like chili garlic paste and sauces, are allergy-friendly. For any other questions about my Dragon Chicken recipe, feel free to ask! Crispy Dragon Chicken: Your New Favorite Indo-Chinese Delight Dragon Chicken is a crispy, restaurant-style dish filled with Indo-Chinese flavors that impresses everyone. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: Indo-ChineseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken500 grams Chicken Breast Thinly cut boneless skinless.1 large Egg Acts as a binder; can omit for vegan.1 cup All-Purpose Flour Use gluten-free flour as an option.1/2 cup Corn Starch Key for maximum crispiness.For the Sauce1/4 cup Dark Soy Sauce Adds depth and color.2 tablespoons Chili Garlic Paste Infuses heat.1 tablespoon Ginger Garlic Paste Essential for robustness.1 teaspoon Sugar Balances spiciness.1 teaspoon Ajinomoto (MSG) Optional for umami kick.For the Garnish1/4 cup Cashews Adds crunch; substitute with peanuts if needed.2 pieces Dry Red Chilli Adjust to taste.1 medium Onion Sliced.1 medium Capsicum Sliced. Equipment Deep frying potMixing bowlSlotted spoonPancutting boardknife Method Preparation StepsBegin by cutting the chicken breast into thin strips for quick cooking. In a bowl, combine the chicken with salt, pepper, dark soy sauce, chili garlic paste, ginger garlic paste, egg, all-purpose flour, and cornstarch. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated. Let the mixture marinate for 15 minutes to enhance the flavor and texture.Heat enough oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat, aiming for around 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken strips in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.In a separate pan, add a couple of tablespoons of oil and heat over medium flame. Once hot, toss in the dry red chilies and cashews, frying them for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.Add the sliced onion and capsicum to the pan with the fried chilies and cashews. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized.Stir in the ginger garlic paste, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Mix in the chili garlic paste, dark soy sauce, tomato ketchup, a pinch of salt, ajinomoto (if using), and sugar. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.Add the fried chicken strips to the pan, tossing them gently in the sauce until they're well coated.Once coated, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish your Dragon Chicken with chopped coriander or spring onions and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure chicken strips are cut into even sizes for consistent cooking. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. For maximum crunch, consider double-coating the chicken before frying. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
