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Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Crispy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken: A Flavorful Snack Delight

Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is a crispy, juicy snack seasoned with five-spice powder and basil, offering a delightful taste experience.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 kg Chicken Thighs Juicy texture and rich flavor
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced, use fresh for best taste
  • 2 tbsp Brown Sugar Adds sweetness
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Five-Spice Powder Authentic powder preferred
  • 10 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves Adds herbal aroma
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Cornstarch Creates a light and crispy coating
  • 1 tbsp Baking Powder Essential for crispy texture
For Frying
  • 2 cups Peanut Oil High smoke point, can substitute with vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp MSG Optional enhancer for umami flavor

Equipment

  • Deep skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Thermometer

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together minced garlic, five-spice powder, and brown sugar. Coat chicken thighs thoroughly and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  2. Prepare Coating: Combine cornstarch, baking powder, and half of the five-spice powder in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
  3. First Fry: Heat oil to 325°F (160°C). Fry marinated chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Second Fry: Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry chicken again for 2–3 minutes until crispy. Season with remaining five-spice powder, salt, and optional MSG.
  5. Fried Basil: Fry fresh basil leaves in hot oil for 20-30 seconds until fragrant. Toss onto chicken before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 100gCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to check oil temperature for optimal crispiness and avoid overcrowding while frying.

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