Name: Crispy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken You'll Crave Every Time
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs (Tender and juicy meat); 1 large Egg White (Helps bind the marinade); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Adds umami flavor); 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine (Substitute with chicken broth for non-alcoholic); 1 tablespoon White Granulated Sugar (Balances savory flavors); 1 tablespoon Chinese Five Spice (Essential for flavor); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall taste); 1 teaspoon White Pepper (Can substitute with black pepper); 1 cup Potato Starch (Creates crunchy exterior); 2 cups Vegetable Oil (Ideal for frying); 1 cup Thai Basil (Adds aromatic flavor)

As the sizzling fragrance of oil fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me. Today, I’m whipping up an irresistible batch of Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, that iconic snack that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Taiwan. This quick and easy recipe is not only perfect for those busy weeknights but also a fantastic crowd-pleaser for gatherings and parties. With its crunchy exterior and succulent chicken seasoned to perfection with Chinese five spice and aromatic fried basil, it’s my go-to dish when I crave something comforting yet impressive. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to recreate this beloved dish in just 30 minutes! Are you ready to bring a taste of Taiwan to your table?

What Makes This Dish So Irresistible?

Quick and Easy: You can whip up this flavorsome Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of Chinese five spice and fried basil delivers a bold taste that tantalizes the taste buds, making it an unforgettable experience.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you serve it as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, this recipe will impress family and friends alike, ensuring second helpings will be requested.

Versatile Cooking Options: Enjoy the classic frying method or opt for the air fryer version for a healthier twist. You can even customize the protein by switching chicken for tofu or shrimp!

Delicious Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days and enjoy them reheated — they’ll still retain their irresistible crunch, proving that great taste lasts!

Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy meat that brings the dish to life.
Egg White – Helps bind the marinade to the chicken for added moisture.
Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic is the key to enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
Soy Sauce – This adds a deep umami flavor to the marinade.
Shaoxing Wine – Provides an aromatic note; for a non-alcoholic option, substitute with chicken broth.
White Granulated Sugar – Balances the savory flavors; brown sugar can be used for extra richness.
Chinese Five Spice – The hallmark of this recipe; essential for authentic Taiwanese flavor.
Salt and White Pepper – Enhances overall taste; feel free to use black pepper if preferred.

For the Coating and Frying

Potato Starch – Creates that crunchy exterior; can be swapped with tapioca starch or cornstarch if needed.
Vegetable Oil – A neutral cooking oil ideal for frying, but be careful not to overcrowd the pan.

For the Finishing Touch

Thai Basil – Adds an aromatic flavor that elevates the dish; can switch with Holy Basil or Italian Basil, but note the taste will change.

Now that you have gathered all the crucial components, let’s dive into preparing this delightful dish that you and your loved ones will crave time and time again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Begin by dicing the skinless boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine them with egg white, minced garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, white sugar, Chinese five spice, salt, and white pepper. Ensure every piece is well-coated, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This infuses the flavors beautifully into your chicken.

Step 2: Prepare Coating
Once marinated, take a plate and spread an even layer of potato starch across it. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then dredge each piece in the potato starch, ensuring a thorough coating. As you coat, look for small beads forming on the surface, signifying that they are ready for frying. This will create the crunchy exterior that defines Taiwanese popcorn chicken.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a deep pan or heavy pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken pieces, usually about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), using a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. You will know the oil is ready when a small piece of coated chicken sizzles vigorously upon contact. It’s important to take your time heating the oil for perfect frying.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
Carefully lower the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in small batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown and are crispy. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the chicken once cooked, and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This step is key for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture of Taiwanese popcorn chicken.

Step 5: Fry Basil
After frying the chicken, quickly add the washed Thai basil leaves to the hot oil for 10-15 seconds. You’ll know they are done when they become crispy but vibrant green. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried basil and place it on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This fragrant finish adds an aromatic touch that complements the crispy chicken beautifully.

Step 6: Serve
Once the chicken is all fried to golden perfection and the basil is crispy, plate your Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken. Sprinkle the fried basil generously over the top and let its fragrance envelop the dish. Serve immediately for the best crunch, perhaps with some dipping sauces or alongside your favorite sides. The delightful aroma and taste will have everyone coming back for more!

Storage Tips for Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Reheating: To retain that irresistible crunch, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

Expert Tips for Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Fresh Ingredients: Use skinless boneless chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture; fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference.
Coating Thoroughness: Dredge chicken pieces thoroughly in potato starch to ensure maximum crunch; don’t skip this step!
Frying Temperature: Monitor the oil temperature carefully; frying too hot can burn the chicken while too low makes it soggy.
Basil Timing: Fry the basil separately just before serving to prevent it from burning; it’s the aromatic hero of your Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken!
Small Batches: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan; cook in small batches to maintain a crispy texture without steaming.
Leftover Love: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to four days; they reheat beautifully in an air fryer for quick, crispy enjoyment!

What to Serve with Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

When serving up Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, think about the delightful flavors and textures that can enhance this crispy treat.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy, aromatic rice provides a gentle base that balances the bold flavors of the chicken, ensuring each bite feels satisfying.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds a fresh, crunchy element that contrasts beautifully with the crispy chicken, while its slightly bitter taste complements the marinade.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This tangy and sweet dipping sauce perfectly enhances the savory aspects of the popcorn chicken, providing a delightful contrast for your taste buds.
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side of pickled vegetables brightens the meal and cuts through the richness, adding acidity that harmonizes nicely with the chicken.
Mango Salad: Fresh mango slices mixed with crisp salad greens lend a sweet and refreshing contrast that brings vibrancy to the plate, complementing the chicken’s richness beautifully.
Chilled Green Tea: Serve with a refreshing glass of unsweetened green tea. Its earthiness cools the palate and enhances the dish’s delicate flavors, making for a perfect dining experience.
Coconut Sticky Rice: This sweet and slightly chewy rice dish introduces a creamy texture that rounds out the meal, providing a wonderful accompaniment to the savory chicken.
Pineapple Sorbet: Finish off with a light and refreshing pineapple sorbet, bringing a tropical sweetness that cleanses the palate after the rich and crispy chicken.

Choose any of these delightful pairings to elevate your Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken into a memorable meal!

Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken Variations

Get ready to tailor your Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken experience; let’s dive into delightful twists that will elevate this beloved dish even more!

Air Fryer Method: For a healthier option, lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil, cook at 400°F for 5 minutes, then flip and continue at 375°F until golden.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or paprika to the marinade for an exciting heat boost. Your taste buds will thank you!
Coconut Flour Twist: Swap potato starch with coconut flour for a subtle sweetness and different texture that brings a tropical flair to the dish.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with tofu. Marinate and coat just like you would with chicken for a plant-based version that’s equally as delicious!
Shrimp Sensation: Consider using shrimp as your protein; just adjust the frying time, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they’re pink and tender.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Throw in some fresh mint or cilantro during frying for a refreshing twist that brightens the dish.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the minced garlic in the marinade for an extra punch of flavor, enhancing both aroma and taste.

And if you’re looking for more scrumptious chicken recipes, don’t miss out on our Chopped Chicken Bacon or the delicious Garlic Chicken Roasted. There’s always a new flavor adventure to embark on!

Make Ahead Options

These crispy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully (just cover and refrigerate). The chicken should be coated in potato starch right before frying to maintain that signature crunch, so avoid coating it too early. Additionally, you can fry the chicken in batches ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken?
For the best flavor and texture, I highly recommend using skinless boneless chicken thighs. They are juicy and tender, making them ideal for frying. However, if you prefer white meat, you could use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more quickly.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
You’ll want to heat your oil to around 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. A simple trick is to drop a small piece of coated chicken into the oil; if it sizzles vigorously upon contact, the oil is ready! Always use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinated chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to coat and fry it right before serving for the best crunch.

How should I store leftover Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken?
After enjoying your meal, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back that delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Always tailor the recipe to your needs! If you have a gluten allergy, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for tofu! The delicious seasoning and cooking method will still yield amazing results.