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Dragon Chicken
Alyssa

Dragon Chicken

Savor Dragon Chicken! This flavorful dish features tender chicken pieces tossed in a spicy sauce with a hint of sweetness, perfect for spice lovers.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

Marinade:
  • 1 egg: Provides moisture and helps the seasonings stick to the chicken.
  • 1 tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce: Adds umami flavor without too much salt.
Seasonings:
  • 1/2 tsp ginger powder: Offers a warm slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with savory depth.
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder: Contributes mild sweetness and earthiness.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds color and a hint of sweetness.
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: Brings the heat! Adjust to your preference.
  • 1 lb chicken thighs sliced: Chosen for their juiciness and tenderness, chicken thighs work exceptionally well in this dish.
Breading:
  • 1/2 cup flour: Forms a crispy coating for the chicken.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch: Enhances the crispiness and lightness of the breading.
  • 1/2 tbsp chili powder: Adds an extra layer of flavor and heat.
  • Canola or vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that crispy texture.
Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce: A base for the sauce providing a savory flavor.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and thickness to the sauce.
  • 3 tbsp honey: Balances the heat with its natural sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds a rich depth of flavor.
  • 1 1/2-2 tbsp Asian chili sauce: Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
  • 1 tbsp black vinegar: Provides a tangy finish to the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Enhances the sauce with a nutty fragrance.
  • 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for perfect cling to the chicken.
Stir Fry:
  • 1 cup unsalted cashews: Adds crunch and a rich flavor.
  • 1 tbsp vegetable or peanut oil: Necessary for frying the vegetables.
  • 1/2 white onion sliced: Adds sweetness and texture.
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced: Offers brightness and crunch.
  • 1 tbsp ginger grated: Fresh ginger adds a vibrant flavor.
  • 6 garlic cloves minced: Enhances the dish with aromatic notes.

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce. Add the seasonings: 1/2 tsp ginger powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper. Mix until combined. Add 1 lb sliced chicken thighs into the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if time allows, to absorb the flavors.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 1/2-2 tbsp Asian chili sauce, 1 tbsp black vinegar, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, and 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch until smooth and combined. Set this aside as you prepare the other components.
  3. Breading the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 1/2 tbsp chili powder. Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the bowl and dip each piece into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. This will create a crispy coating when fried.
  4. Frying the Chicken: Heat canola or vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes total. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil.
  5. Toast Cashews and Stir Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 cup unsalted cashews. Stir frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the cashews and set them aside. In the same pan, pour in 1 tbsp vegetable or peanut oil. Add 1/2 sliced white onion, 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 tbsp grated ginger, and 6 minced garlic cloves. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  6. Combine and Serve: Retrace your steps by adding the prepared sauce to the vegetables in the pan. Stir and simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Then, add the fried chicken and toasted cashews, tossing everything together to ensure even coating. Cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.