As I stood at the bustling night market in Taipei, the air was thick with tantalizing scents, each stall more inviting than the last. It was there that I discovered the magic of Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken—crispy on the outside, succulent on the inside, and bursting with flavors that danced on my palate. Now, inspired by that unforgettable night, I’m excited to share my version of this street food sensation right in your kitchen!
This recipe for Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken brings you all the authenticity and crunch of the market without the long lines. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. With a delightful crispy batter enveloping juicy chicken, every bite promises satisfaction that will impress both family and friends. Join me in recreating this iconic dish and let the delightful flavors of Taiwan transform your dining table!
Why is Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken a Must-Try?
Irresistible Crunch: Experience the satisfying crunch with every bite, transporting you straight to Taiwan’s bustling night markets.
Flavor Explosion: Each piece is marinated to perfection, infusing the chicken with a rich, savory flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is streamlined for busy home cooks, making it achievable even on weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, leaving them asking for seconds.
Versatile Options: Easily adaptable, you can customize spices, or try a vegan version without compromising on flavor!
Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Chicken Breasts – Ensure they’re large, fresh, and butterflied for even cooking.
- Chinese Cooking Wine (or Beer/Sherry) – Adds depth of flavor to the marinade.
- Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; opt for low-sodium varieties for a healthier choice.
- Five-Spice Powder – Delivers a warm, aromatic flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
- White Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; you can substitute with black pepper if desired.
- Garlic – Freshly grated enhances flavor depth and aroma in the marinade.
For the Batter
- Tapioca Starch (or Sweet Potato Flour/Cornstarch) – Creates a wonderfully crunchy batter for your fried chicken.
- Eggs – Binds the batter; feel free to use flax or chia eggs for a vegan substitution.
- Corn Starch – Enhances batter texture for extra crispiness, making it a true street food delight.
For Seasoning
- Seasoning Mix (Chili Powder, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt) – Adjust based on taste preferences to enhance the fried chicken flavor, ensuring each sensational bite has a kick!
This Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken brings all the fun of night market fare into your home kitchen, ready to impress anyone at your next gathering!
How to Make Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cooking wine, five-spice powder, white pepper, and freshly grated garlic. Coat the butterflied chicken breasts thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
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Prepare the Batter: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy, then mix in the cornstarch until the mixture is smooth. This blend is key to achieving that stunning crispy finish.
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Batter the Chicken: Take each marinated chicken piece and dip it in the egg mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. Then, roll it in the tapioca starch, ensuring a thick, even layer. Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes, which helps the batter stick.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pan until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through until they’re golden brown and irresistibly crispy.
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Season and Serve: Once fried, drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil and immediately sprinkle with your seasoning mix while hot for maximum flavor. Serve with your favorite sides!
Optional: Serve with a zesty dipping sauce or a side of refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken pieces are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce mixture for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it absorbs all those delicious flavors. The batter can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just make sure to keep it sealed to maintain quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply dip the marinated chicken in the prepared batter and fry as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the unbeatable crunch and juicy goodness without the hassle on a busy night!
How to Store and Freeze Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to airtight bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To restore the crispy texture, reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. This method helps keep your Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken just as delicious as when it was freshly made!
Expert Tips for Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) for perfectly crispy chicken; too low will result in sogginess.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
- Batter Resting: Allowing the battered chicken to rest for 5 minutes before frying helps the coating adhere better and results in a more satisfying crunch.
- Serve Hot: For peak crispiness, serve the chicken immediately after frying, while the batter is fresh and warm.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but for the best crunch, enjoy them fresh!
What to Serve with Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement the crunchy, savory chicken.
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Tangy Dipping Sauce: A zesty blend of lime juice and chili sauce offers a vibrant contrast to the crispy chicken, enhancing each bite with a flavorful kick.
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Cool Cucumber Salad: The refreshing crunch of cucumbers balances the rich flavors of the fried chicken, providing a bright, healthy element to your meal.
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Pineapple Fried Rice: This sweet and savory dish brings tropical flair, with juicy pineapple providing moisture and fruitiness that complements the seasoned crunch of the chicken.
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Bubble Tea: Refreshing and fun, this sweet drink adds a playful beverage option that suits the festive vibe of your DIY Taiwanese feast.
Indulge in a complete cultural experience by pairing these delicious sides and drinks that not only elevate the meal but also bring out the flavors of the Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken!
Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your fried chicken with these fun twists that will elevate your dish to new heights!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free cornstarch for the batter.
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Vegan Delight: Replace chicken with tofu slices or cauliflower, and use flaxseed or chia eggs in the batter.
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Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery flavor that packs a punch.
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate lime or lemon juice in the marinade to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
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Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs like oregano or rosemary into the batter for an aromatic twist that complements the chicken beautifully.
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Crunchy Coating: Experiment by adding crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to the batter for an extra layer of crunch.
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Honey Glaze: Drizzle a honey or maple syrup glaze over the fried chicken post-cooking for a delightful sweet and savory contrast.
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Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped nuts like almonds or cashews in the batter for a rich, nutty flavor and added texture.
These variations not only cater to different dietary preferences but also make this dish your own, showcasing your culinary creativity. Happy cooking!
Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the ultimate experience, choose large, fresh chicken breasts that are firm to the touch. Look for ones that are pale pink with no dark spots; these are signs of freshness. Butterflying the chicken also helps to achieve even cooking and that perfect crispy exterior!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture from making the batter soggy. This way, you can still enjoy the flavors of the Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken even on busy days!
Can I freeze cooked chicken, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your crispy chicken! Once fully cooked and cooled, lay the chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid—this usually takes 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen pieces to airtight freezer bags and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat as detailed below!
How do I reheat leftover fried chicken to maintain its crispiness?
To restore the crunchy texture, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Reheat for 15-20 minutes or until they’re hot and crisp. This method ensures the batter retains its delightful crunch!
What should I do if my batter isn’t sticking to the chicken?
If you’re having trouble with the batter adhering, ensure that your chicken is well-coated in the marinade and allowed to rest after being breaded. Resting for about 5 minutes allows the batter to set, which helps it stay on during frying. Additionally, try to keep your oil at the right temperature—too cold can lead to a soggy mess!
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Very! You can easily make a vegan version of this Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken by substituting the chicken with large pieces of cauliflower or firm tofu. For the batter, replace the eggs with flax or chia eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, let sit until gelatinous). The flavors will still shine through beautifully!
Ultimate Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken Recipe to Impress Anyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cooking wine, five-spice powder, white pepper, and freshly grated garlic. Coat the butterflied chicken breasts thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Batter: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy, then mix in the cornstarch until the mixture is smooth.
- Batter the Chicken: Dip each marinated chicken piece in the egg mixture, then roll it in the tapioca starch, ensuring a thick, even layer. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Add chicken pieces and fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway until golden brown.
- Season and Serve: Drain the chicken on paper towels, sprinkle with the seasoning mix while hot, and serve immediately.