How to Make Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken - A Step-by-Step Guide

Taiwanese popcorn chicken, also known as salt and pepper chicken, is a popular street food in Taiwan. It is a delicious, crispy, and flavorful snack that is perfect for enjoying on its own or as a tasty addition to a meal. The dish features bite-sized pieces of chicken that are marinated, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and then deep-fried to crispy perfection. The result is a dish that is bursting with savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors and has a satisfying crunch with every bite....

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Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground white pepper, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup tempura batter mix, dry, or as needed
  • 2 cups peanut oil for frying, or as needed
  • 1 bunch Thai basil, chopped
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Additional Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Servings: 6

  • Mix chicken, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, five-spice powder, white pepper, salt, vinegar, and cayenne pepper together in a large bowl until well combined. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  • Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  • Whisk egg in a small bowl until smooth. Place dry tempura mix into a second small bowl. Dip chicken pieces one at a time into egg, then dredge in tempura mix, shaking off any excess.
  • Working in batches, lower chicken carefully into hot oil and fry until golden brown, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and season with salt and pepper.
  • Transfer chicken to a platter and garnish with basil leaves and green onions.
  • Nutrition

    940 cal.

    • Total Fat: 92g
    • Saturated Fat: 18g
    • Cholesterol: 126mg
    • Sodium: 655mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 8g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Protein: 22g
    • Vitamin C: 6mg
    • Calcium: 49mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 286mg