Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken

Short Description

Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken is a crispy, golden-brown delight infused with bold garlic flavor and a touch of sweetness. This dish is a popular island favorite, known for its crunchy texture and deep, savory taste. Whether served with rice or as a snack, this flavorful fried chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves a satisfying, garlicky crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: The double-frying method ensures extra crunch that stays crisp for longer.
• Packed with Flavor: A delicious garlic-forward marinade and sauce set this fried chicken apart from traditional recipes.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this a great dish for home cooks.
• Great for Any Occasion: Serve it as a main dish, party snack, or even in a bento box for a flavorful meal.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning, spice level, or even the type of breading to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs or drumsticks
• Soy sauce
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Brown sugar
• Oyster sauce
• Cornstarch
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Eggs
• Water
• Oil (for frying)
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Salt
• Pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, and oyster sauce. Stir until well mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat them in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Make the Breading Mix: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and pat dry. Dredge each piece in the dry breading mix, ensuring an even coating.
5. Prepare the Batter: In another bowl, whisk eggs with a little water. Dip the coated chicken pieces into the egg mixture and then back into the dry coating for an extra crispy texture.
6. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the top, it’s ready.
7. First Fry: Fry the chicken pieces in batches for about 5-6 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove and let drain on a wire rack.
8. Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken again for 2-3 minutes until deep golden brown and extra crispy.
9. Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In a pan, sauté minced garlic in a bit of oil until fragrant. Add a splash of soy sauce, a pinch of sugar, and a little water to create a rich garlic glaze.
10. Coat the Chicken: Toss the fried chicken in the garlic sauce until evenly coated.
11. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and replace flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour.
• Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a little honey over the fried chicken for a honey-garlic twist.
• Air Fryer Option: Coat the chicken lightly with oil and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marination time)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 people

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, marinated chicken pieces for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before frying.

FAQs

How do I keep the fried chicken crispy for longer?

Double-frying ensures crispiness, and draining the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels helps prevent sogginess.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are recommended for juicier, more flavorful results. If using breast meat, avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

What oil is best for frying?

Use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Try air-frying or baking the chicken instead of deep-frying.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice, macaroni salad, or a side of stir-fried vegetables.

How do I prevent the batter from falling off?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before dredging and allow the coated pieces to rest for a few minutes before frying.

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is recommended for better flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used as a time-saving alternative.

What should I do if my chicken turns out too salty?

Balance the flavor by serving with plain rice or a mild side dish.

Can I make this dish less garlicky?

Reduce the amount of garlic in the marinade and sauce to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken is a flavorful, crispy dish that brings island-inspired flavors to your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a party snack, this garlicky fried chicken is sure to impress. Try it today and bring a taste of Hawaii to your table!

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