Name: Firecracker Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 2 eggs, whisked; 2 tablespoons oil; 1/3 cup buffalo or hot sauce; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Table of Contents: Firecracker Chicken

Firecracker Chicken

FIRECRACKER CHICKEN: The Sweet & Spicy Sensation Your Family Will Crave!

Remember those family gatherings where everyone wanted a little bit of everything? As life gets busier, finding recipes that deliver big flavor and are relatively quick to make can feel like a challenge. Well, challenge accepted! This Firecracker Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and crispy textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s the perfect dish to brighten up a weeknight or add a little zing to your next holiday potluck.

This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s an experience. The vibrant, glossy sauce clings to perfectly crispy chicken pieces, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. We’re talking about a spicy sweet chicken that’s easy enough for a beginner cook but impressive enough for company. If you’re looking for an Asian glazed chicken that’s a step above the rest, you’ve found it. Forget ordering takeout – you can create restaurant-quality crispy firecracker chicken right in your own kitchen!

This recipe is inspired by the popular dish served at many Asian-inspired restaurants, but we’ve streamlined the process and adjusted the flavors to create a truly unforgettable meal. It’s a fantastic way to introduce a little excitement to your dinner rotation, and it’s surprisingly versatile.

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also know this recipe by a few other names, including “Bang Bang Chicken” (though the traditional Bang Bang Chicken is a cold dish, this version is served hot!). Some variations include adding pineapple chunks for a tropical twist, or using different types of peppers to adjust the heat level. For a milder version, reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce. If you enjoy a similar flavor profile, you might also enjoy exploring recipes for General Tso’s Chicken or Orange Chicken.

Ingredients: Firecracker Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing Firecracker Chicken:

* 2/3 cup cornstarch
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
* 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
* 3 large eggs, beaten
* 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1/4 cup canola or peanut oil (for frying)
* 3/4 cup honey
* 1/2 cup hot pepper sauce (Sriracha or Frank’s Red Hot)

* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
* 4 cups cooked white rice, for serving
* 1/2 cup scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
* White sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, ground ginger, ground pepper, and 1 teaspoon of the salt. This creates a flavorful coating that will help the chicken get extra crispy.
2. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, pressing to adhere. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum crispiness.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat the canola or peanut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Chef’s Tip: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Drain the Chicken: Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
5. Make the Firecracker Sauce: In a separate saucepan, whisk together the honey, hot pepper sauce, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Substitution Tip: If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch.
6. Combine & Glaze: Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the firecracker sauce. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring every piece is glistening with that delicious glaze.

7. Serve & Garnish: Serve the Firecracker Chicken immediately over a bed of fluffy white rice. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions and a sprinkle of white sesame seeds (if desired).

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 450 per serving (estimate, varies with oil absorption)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Firecracker Chicken recipe works because of the contrast between the crispy coating and the sticky, flavorful sauce. The cornstarch coating creates a beautiful texture, while the honey and hot pepper sauce provide the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. The rice vinegar adds a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the sauce, making it incredibly addictive.

It’s a fantastic example of easy comfort food for family dinners that doesn’t compromise on taste. To elevate the flavor even further, consider marinating the chicken in a little soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before coating. Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your spice preference. For a truly authentic experience, serve with a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover Firecracker Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may become slightly less sticky as it sits, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Freezing: While the texture of the fried chicken may change slightly, you can freeze leftover Firecracker Chicken for up to 2 months. Place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: The best way to reheat Firecracker Chicken is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help to restore some of the crispiness. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will make the chicken soggy.

Conclusion: Firecracker Chicken

So there you have it – a delicious and easy Firecracker Chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be intimidated by the frying process; it’s well worth the effort for that incredible crispy texture. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful explosion of flavors for yourself!

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Share your photos and comments below, and let me know if you made any adjustments to the recipe. Happy cooking!