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Dragon Chicken is my go-to when I crave something bold, saucy, and finger-licking spicy with just the right balance of sweet and tang. It brings together crispy chicken, buttery cashews, caramelized onions and peppers, and a chili-laden sauce that’s pure magic over rice or on its own. I love how every bite packs a punch but keeps you coming back for more.
I first cooked this on a rainy Saturday and my family instantly declared it better than takeout. Now it is our top request whenever friends come over. The crunch from the cashews alone keeps everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: bring extra juiciness and flavor to each bite Choose boneless skinless thighs for best texture
- Egg: creates a sticky surface allowing the breading to cling I always use a large fresh egg for best results
- Low sodium soy sauce: in both chicken and sauce ensures rich flavor without overpowering saltiness If using regular soy sauce blend half with water
- Ginger powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika: in the marinade start layering flavors from the beginning
- Cayenne pepper: lets you adjust spice level while keeping the recipe balanced Use more or less to suit your taste
- All purpose flour and cornstarch: mix for unbeatable crispy breading Cornstarch is key because it fries up lighter and crunchier than flour alone
- Chili powder: in the breading adds color and warmth
- Canola or vegetable oil: gives even browning and will not add unwanted taste Use a neutral high-heat oil for best results
- Ketchup and honey: in the sauce are classic Indo-Chinese pairing for tang and gloss Look for a ketchup with minimal additives
- Oyster sauce: provides savory richness If you need a vegetarian option sub with mushroom stir fry sauce
- Asian chili sauce: brings zing and spice I use Sambal Oelek because of its fresh flavor but sriracha works in a pinch
- Chinkiang vinegar: is deeply aromatic with mild sweetness For the closest sub use half balsamic and half rice vinegar
- Sesame oil: adds authentic toastiness always buy toasted oil for deepest flavor
- White onion and red bell pepper: give natural sweetness and bright color Pick firm glossy vegetables for best texture
- Fresh ginger and garlic: provide punchy aroma and lift If in a rush use jarred but fresh really shines
- Unsalted cashews: are buttery with a gentle crunch Roast raw for the tastiest texture and flavor
- Green onions and toasted sesame seeds: for garnish bring pops of green and nutty aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Whisk egg soy sauce and all marinade spices in a large bowl or bag Add sliced chicken and turn to coat Let it marinate while you prepare everything else Thirty minutes is perfect but overnight in the fridge is even better for deeper flavor
- Mix the Sauce:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl Use a fork or mini whisk to dissolve the cornstarch completely Set aside The mix should be glossy and smooth so the sauce coats everything beautifully later
- Bread the Chicken:
- In a separate large bag mix flour cornstarch and chili powder Remove the chicken from the marinade and blot off any excess moisture Add chicken to the breading mix Shake well so each strip is evenly coated For best results I gently press the coating into the pieces through the bag
- Pan Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium high until shimmering Place chicken in a single layer without crowding Cook each batch for about four minutes flipping halfway until golden and cooked through Drain on paper towels and keep warm while finishing the rest Add more oil between batches if the pan looks dry
- Toast the Cashews:
- In a dry skillet toast your cashews over medium heat Stir often until they are golden in spots and smell nutty Remove right away so they do not burn
- Stir Fry the Vegetables:
- Add a small drizzle of oil to your pan Heat over medium high then add onions and bell peppers Stir fry for a couple of minutes so they begin to turn golden but keep some crunch Add ginger and garlic and cook for thirty seconds letting their aroma hit the pan
- Sauce and Finish:
- Whisk your sauce again then add to the pan Bring to a simmer over medium heat Stir frequently as it bubbles and thickens after a minute you want a glossy coating not a thick paste
- Bring It All Together:
- Return the fried chicken and toasted cashews to the pan Toss everything together so the sauce clings to every piece Finish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds Serve right away for the ultimate crispy bite
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One of my favorite memories is the day I taught my kids to toast cashews for this recipe They took so much pride in watching them turn golden and now they ask to do this step every time We often share stories at the table about who can handle the most spice
Storage Tips
Dragon Chicken is at its crispiest when served right away I recommend making only what you will eat in one sitting but leftovers store well in the fridge for up to four days To reheat use a skillet with a dash of oil to help bring back some crunch I avoid microwaving unless I am in a rush because it makes the breading soft
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have chicken thighs you can use boneless chicken breast though it will be a little less juicy For the sauce feel free to swap the Chinkiang vinegar for a combo of balsamic and rice vinegar If you are short on cashews roasted peanuts also work Keep the vegetables flexible according to what you have on hand snow peas and carrots are great in here too
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Serving Suggestions
Dragon Chicken shines over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a satisfying meal For a fun appetizer spread serve it with lettuce cups or atop crispy wonton chips For a full meal I love to offer it with a cucumber salad or homemade egg rolls to balance the spice
Cultural Context
Indo-Chinese cuisine blossomed from the crossroads of Chinese immigrant cooks and Indian flavors blending the basics of stir frying and aromatics with the punch and color of Indian spices Dishes like this are meant for sharing and bring a table to life with bold aroma and color
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How spicy is Dragon Chicken?
The heat level is adjustable. Use less chili sauce for mild flavor or increase for extra kick to suit your preference.
- → Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?
Yes, although cashews provide classic flavor, peanuts or almonds can be substituted for a different twist.
- → Is deep frying necessary for the chicken?
No, the chicken is pan fried for crisp texture, making it lighter than traditional deep frying methods.
- → What sides go well with Dragon Chicken?
Jasmine rice, egg rolls, or ramen noodle salad pair perfectly to absorb and complement the saucy flavors.
- → How can leftovers be reheated?
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of oil or microwave in short intervals, keeping in mind breading will soften.