Firecracker Chicken

Every time I think of Firecracker Chicken, I’m transported to those casual yet vibrant dinners with friends, where laughter mingles with the enticing aroma of spicy chicken wafting through the air. Picture a busy weeknight when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I remember experimenting with this dish, seeking the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, and my family just couldn’t get enough of it! The first time I served it, my kids asked for seconds—and that’s how I knew I had a winner on my hands. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this simple yet flavorful dish has become my go-to recipe that never fails to impress.

Main Ingredients for Firecracker Chicken

The ingredients for Firecracker Chicken come together in a way that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Each component plays a vital role, from the crispy texture of the chicken to the sweet and spicy sauce that coats it. Let’s take a look at the key players:

• Cornstarch: This is essential for creating that crispy coating on the chicken. It helps achieve a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
• Ground Ginger: A warm spice that adds depth and a hint of heat to the dish.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The main protein of this recipe, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying.
• Honey: The sweet component that balances the heat from the pepper sauce, creating a well-rounded flavor.
• Hot Pepper Sauce: This is where the fire comes from! Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity, elevating the flavors of the dish.
• Scallions: These provide a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

How to Cook Firecracker Chicken

Cooking Firecracker Chicken is as enjoyable as eating it! With simple and clear steps, you’ll find that making this dish is a breeze. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is crucial for a perfectly baked chicken. Allowing the oven to reach the right temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, ground ginger, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This mixture is key for that crispy outer layer. Make sure it’s well mixed.
3. In a separate shallow bowl, add the beaten eggs. This will create a lovely coating that helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken.
4. Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking. This is where the magic happens!
5. In batches, toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture, coating them well. Then dip them into the egg mixture, making sure they’re fully covered. This step ensures a crunchy crust.
6. Transfer the coated chicken to the hot skillet. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Watch the color change and enjoy that sizzling sound!
7. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a 9×13 baking dish. Repeat until all the pieces are done. The aroma at this point will be irresistible!
8. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, hot pepper sauce, rice vinegar, crushed red pepper, and the remaining salt. Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce according to your heat preference. This sauce is what takes the dish to the next level.
9. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish, tossing to coat every piece evenly. It’s crucial to make sure every piece gets that delicious glaze.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. The goal is to let the sauce caramelize and the chicken become tender.
11. Once cooked, serve the Firecracker Chicken over rice, garnished with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy every bite!

Expert Tips about Firecracker Chicken

Making Firecracker Chicken is straightforward, but there are a few tips that can enhance your experience. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the cornstarch mixture and sauce in advance. This will save time on busy nights.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer on the stove before pouring it onto the chicken.
• Serving Options: Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs well with broccoli or snap peas.
• Garnishing: Don’t skip the toasted sesame seeds and scallions on top; they add a beautiful presentation and extra flavor.
• Spice Level: If you love spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Cooking Method: You can also try air frying the chicken for a healthier option while maintaining the crunch.

What Goes Well With This Firecracker Chicken

When it comes to serving Firecracker Chicken, the options are endless! Here’s a list of ideas to complement this fiery dish:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing; the rice absorbs the delicious sauce and balances the heat.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Serve alongside a vibrant stir-fry for added texture and nutrition.
• Spring Rolls: For a fun twist, serve with homemade or store-bought spring rolls.
• Occasions: Perfect for casual family dinners, game nights, or potlucks where everyone will be impressed!
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in airtight containers. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated for a quick meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Firecracker Chicken stands out with its blend of sweet and spicy flavors that make it a hit at any table. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a little excitement to your dinner routine. I encourage you to try making it tonight; you won’t be disappointed! Your family and friends will love it, and you’ll enjoy every moment spent creating this mouthwatering meal.

Firecracker Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Firecracker Chicken is a sweet and spicy dish that satisfies any craving. With juicy chicken coated in a crispy layer and tossed in a mouthwatering sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Easy to make and utterly delicious, you won’t want to miss out on this one!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ⅔ cup Cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ teaspoons Kosher salt
• 3 large Eggs beaten
• 1½ pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch pieces
• ¼ cup Canola oil
• ⅔ cup Honey
• ¼-⅓ cup Hot pepper sauce such as Crystal®
• 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon Crushed red pepper optional
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• ½ cup Sliced scallions thinly
• Toasted white sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

• 9"x13" baking dish
• Silicone tongs

Method

 

1. To make chicken, preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, ginger, pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
3. In a shallow bowl, add beaten eggs.
4. Add canola oil to a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. In batches, toss chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture and toss to coat. Then, add chicken pieces into the egg mixture and toss to coat.
6. Transfer chicken to the hot skillet and cook in hot oil until chicken is golden on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Transfer cooked chicken to a 9×13 baking dish. Repeat the process until all the chicken pieces are coated and cooked.
8. In a small bowl, mix the honey, hot sauce (more or less depending on preference), vinegar, crushed red pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt.
9. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the baking dish and toss to coat.
10. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
11. Serve over rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions.

Notes

• Make a freezer meal: Prepare the rice, chicken, and sauce and place them in separate freezer Ziploc bags. Store together in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Store leftovers: Keep leftover chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for 2-3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.