Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken (้นฝ้…ฅ้›ž) โ€“ Crispy, Juicy, and Bursting with Night Market Flavor ๐Ÿฟ๐Ÿ—๐Ÿ”ฅ

Apr 14, 2025

โ€ข

Published by: Ha Nguyen

Taiwanese popcorn chicken (้นฝ้…ฅ้›ž) holds a special place in my heart - it's one of those snacks I can never get enough of when wandering through Taiwan's night markets. The crispy golden exterior, the juicy chicken inside, and that irresistible flavor from five spice powder and fried Thai basilโ€ฆ it's pure comfort in every bite. This recipe brings all those nostalgic night market vibes straight to your kitchen. Whether you're craving a late-night snack or want to impress your friends with your cooking, this popcorn chicken will take your taste buds on a trip straight to Taiwan. Letโ€™s get cooking!

Prep Time

15 mins

Cook Time

15 mins

Level

medium

Serve

2

Ready to start?

Ingredients

Chicken & Marinade:

Batter & Coating:

Crispy Basil & Frying:

Seasoning Salt (adjust to taste):

I. How to make?

Step 1:

Chicken & Marinate:

  • Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized cubes.
  • In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine (if using), minced garlic, and five spice powder.
  • Stir well and let marinate for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 2:

Prepare the Batter:

  • After marinating, add rice flour and egg to the chicken.
  • Mix thoroughly to create a wet batter consistency, ensuring all pieces are coated.

Step 3:

Coat the Chicken:

  • Coat each chicken piece evenly in tapioca starch, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
  • Let the coated chicken sit for 5โ€“7 minutes to ensure the batter stays on during frying.
Step image 1

Step 4:

Fry the Chicken โ€“ Round 1:

  • Turn on medium heat, carefully fry the chicken for 4โ€“5 minutes, or until light golden brown and cooked through.
Step image 1

Step 5:

Fry Thai Basil:

  • In the same pan, heat oil to medium-high.
  • Add Thai basil leaves and fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until crispy.

Step 6:

Fry the Chicken โ€“ Round 2:

  • For an extra crispy finish, turn the heat to high and double fry the chicken for 1 minute with the basil.
Step image 1

Step 7:

Mix the Seasoning Salt and Serve:

  • In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients.
  • Mix well until fully blended.
  • Once the chicken is freshly fried and still hot, sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the top. Toss or shake to coat every piece.
Step image 1

II. How to store?

  • Let the popcorn chicken cool completely.
  • Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Keep the seasoning salt in a separate airtight container at room temperature to maintain its flavor.

III. How to Reheat?

  • Air Fryer: Reheat at 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) for about 5โ€“7 minutes until crispy again.
  • Oven: Bake at 190ยฐC (375ยฐF) for 8โ€“10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Pan-fry: Add a small amount of oil to a skillet and re-fry on medium heat until heated through and crispy.
  • โš ๏ธ Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

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