Firecracker Chicken

Firecracker Chicken is a perfectly crispy, sweet, and spicy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of crispy chicken pieces coated in a sticky, flavorful firecracker sauce made with buffalo sauce, brown sugar, and a touch of ginger gives this dish its irresistible kick. It’s quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes, and makes for a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether served over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables, this dish delivers bold flavors and plenty of texture!

Ingredients

For the Firecracker Sauce:

• ⅓ cup buffalo sauce (or hot sauce)

• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon ginger paste

For the Chicken:

• ½ cup cornstarch

• ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Garnish (Optional):

• Green onions, thinly sliced

• Sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Firecracker Sauce:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: buffalo sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger paste. Continue whisking until the brown sugar dissolves. Set the sauce aside.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. In a large Ziploc bag, combine cornstarch, salt, and pepper.

2. Add the chicken pieces to the bag and shake until the chicken is evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Working in batches (if necessary), add the coated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, turning the chicken pieces occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

3. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper-towel-lined plate.

Make the Sauce:

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully pour the sauce into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.

Coat the Chicken:

1. Return the crispy chicken to the skillet and toss it to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is well-glazed and the sauce has thickened.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).

2. Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 21 minutes

• Total Time: 31 minutes

• Calories per Serving: 392 kcal

Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice tolerance. Use mild buffalo sauce for a less spicy dish or hot sauce for more heat.

• Vegetables: Serve this dish with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to make it a more balanced meal.

• Alternative Proteins: Swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Firecracker Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender when cooked. If using chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

How do I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

To control the spice level, adjust the amount of buffalo sauce. For a milder version, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of sauce. For extra heat, add more buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can marinate the chicken pieces in the cornstarch and seasoning mixture in advance for up to a few hours. Then, cook and coat in the sauce when ready to serve.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish lighter, try baking the chicken pieces instead of frying them. Toss them with the cornstarch mixture and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Firecracker Chicken. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Can I use a different type of sauce?

If you don’t have buffalo sauce, you can substitute with a different hot sauce or a combination of sriracha and ketchup for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Firecracker Chicken?

Serve this dish with steamed rice, quinoa, or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. A simple cucumber salad or Asian slaw would also pair nicely with the spicy and sweet flavors.

Conclusion

Firecracker Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that combines crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. The tangy buffalo sauce, brown sugar, and ginger create a unique flavor that’s both bold and irresistible. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with your favorite sides, this dish will definitely leave you craving more!

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