Name: Spicy Dragon Chicken: Quick Indo-Chinese Delight You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken (thinly sliced); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (or rice flour for gluten-free); 1 unit Egg white; 1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Pepper; 2-3 units Dried red chilies (or crushed red pepper flakes); 1 tablespoon Sesame oil; 2 tablespoons Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Ginger (minced); 1/2 cup Tomato ketchup; 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (consider low-sodium); 1 tablespoon Chili garlic sauce; 1 tablespoon Vinegar (rice vinegar works well); 1 tablespoon Sugar or honey (to taste); 1/4 cup Water (if needed); to taste Salt; Sliced green onions; Toasted sesame seeds; Fried onion/bell pepper strips (optional)

In the bustling streets of Indo-Chinese cuisine, there’s a dish that turns heads and tantalizes taste buds—Dragon Chicken. This spicy stir-fry embodies everything we love about bold flavors, marrying the heat of chilies with the sweetness of ketchup and a hint of umami from soy sauce. What’s truly exciting? You can whip up this incredible meal in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, with its crispy chicken pieces enveloped in a glossy sauce, it guarantees to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for something extraordinary. Are you ready to bring the flavors of Dragon Chicken to your kitchen? Let’s embark on this delicious adventure together!

Why Is Dragon Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick Prep: You can have this delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Spicy Kick: Dragon Chicken features a fiery blend of spices that spice enthusiasts will adore, perfectly balancing heat and sweetness.
Crispy Texture: The chicken is crispy and coated in a glossy sauce, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over steamed rice, tossed with noodles, or in crispy lettuce cups for a fresh twist.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this stir-fry is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to check out my Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for another flavorful meal option!

Dragon Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken (1 lb) – Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work best, thinly sliced for quick cooking.
Cornstarch (¼ cup) – Creates a crispy coating; can be substituted with rice flour for a gluten-free option.
Egg white (1) – Helps bind the cornstarch to the chicken for a delightful crunch.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor of the chicken, ensuring it’s deliciously seasoned.
Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds an extra touch of seasoning to complement the spices.

For Frying and Sauce

Vegetable oil – Essential for frying; can also use canola or peanut oil for a similar effect.
Sesame oil (1 tablespoon) – Provides a nutty flavor that enriches the sauce.
Garlic (2 tablespoons, minced) – The aromatic base which creates a fragrant sauce.
Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced) – Adds a zesty heat that elevates the overall flavor.
Dried red chilies (2-3) or crushed red pepper flakes – Contributes spiciness; adjust to your personal heat preference.
Tomato ketchup (½ cup) – The sweetness provides a tangy contrast in this Dragon Chicken recipe.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons) – A key ingredient for savory depth; consider low-sodium for a healthier choice.
Chili garlic sauce (1 tablespoon) – Introduces heat and savoriness to the dish.
Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Balances the richness of the sauce; rice vinegar works well too.
Sugar or honey (1 tablespoon) – To sweeten and balance the overall flavors; adjust to your taste.
Water (¼ cup, if needed) – To loosen the sauce; add for your desired thickness.
Salt (to taste) – The final touch for seasoning adjustments.

For Garnishing

Sliced green onions – Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Toasted sesame seeds – Enhance crunch and visual appeal.
Fried onion/bell pepper strips (optional) – For an extra layer of texture and flavor.

With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from making the wonderfully bold and crispy Dragon Chicken that will impress your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dragon Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by slicing your 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken into thin strips. In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 egg white, ¼ cup of cornstarch, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Let this mixture marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare for frying, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Carefully add the marinated chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes or until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping them warm as you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and pour in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of minced ginger, and 2-3 dried red chilies, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in ½ cup of tomato ketchup, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of chili garlic sauce, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, mixing well until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, adding ¼ cup of water if needed.

Step 4: Toss the Chicken
Once the sauce has thickened, add the crispy fried chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss the chicken in the sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Let it simmer for an additional minute to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the spicy sauce, resulting in a rich and caramelized Dragon Chicken.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and transfer the Dragon Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately with steamed rice, tossed noodles, or crisp lettuce cups for an exciting meal everyone will love!

How to Store and Freeze Dragon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Dragon Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing to maintain its crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled Dragon Chicken in a freezer-safe container, separated from the sauce. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in an oven to regain its crispiness, or use an air fryer. Heat the sauce separately in a pan to serve it warm again.

Preparation Tip: If you plan to make this dish ahead for meal prep, consider storing the sauce and chicken separately to maintain freshness and texture.

Make Ahead Options

Dragon Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the bold flavors with ease on busy weeknights. To prep ahead, marinate the chicken (1 lb, sliced) with egg white, cornstarch, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance; cover and refrigerate to enhance the flavor. You can also prepare the sauce by combining garlic, ginger, ketchup, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, vinegar, and sugar up to 3 days ahead—just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, fry the marinated chicken and reheat the sauce before tossing them together for just as delicious results!

Dragon Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; the possibilities are deliciously endless!

Dairy-Free: Substitute any chicken-based sauce with a homemade or store-bought dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream for a creamy touch.
Protein Swap: Use tofu or tempeh in place of chicken for a fantastic vegetarian version that still packs a punch! Just ensure it’s pressed well to avoid excess moisture.
Veggie Boost: Toss in a mix of sliced bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for an added nutrition boost and vibrancy. These veggies not only enhance the dish visually but also offer delightful crunch!
Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari, and ensure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free to maintain a deliciously crispy coating.
Honey Version: Swap sugar with honey for a natural sweetness that enriches the sauce’s flavor. The honey caramelizes beautifully while cooking, adding depth to the flavor profile!
Spicy Levels: Looking for a hot kick? Increase the amount of dried red chilies or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat that will awaken your taste buds.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate lime or lemon juice at the end for a zesty brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce. This gives the Dragon Chicken a fresh lift!
Add some heat: Throw in some fresh jalapeños or a teaspoon of sriracha in the sauce to create a new, fiery layer, bringing an exciting twist to your dish.

As you experiment and discover your favorite variations, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles to elevate your menu even more!

Expert Tips for Dragon Chicken

Crispier Chicken: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F) before frying. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and helps achieve that crunch you desire.
Spice Control: Experiment with the amount of dried red chilies or crushed red pepper flakes you use. Start with less if you’re unsure, and add gradually for the perfect heat level.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken in smaller batches. Crowding the pan lowers the oil temperature and can prevent proper crisping, so patience pays off here!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger really enhance the flavors in the sauce. Opt for freshly minced rather than pre-packaged for maximum taste.
Storage for Leftovers: If you have leftover Dragon Chicken, store the sauce separately to maintain the chicken’s crispiness when reheating it. This is crucial for enjoying the dish again!

What to Serve with Dragon Chicken

Create a delightful dining experience with these perfect pairings that elevate your Dragon Chicken to the next level.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully, making every bite a balanced delight.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing contrast to the heat, this salad provides a crunchy texture and a zesty dressing for a palate-cleansing effect.
Garlic Noodles: They offer a savory richness that pairs well with the bold flavors of Dragon Chicken, creating a tempting mix of textures.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls add a lovely crunch and a burst of fresh flavor, making them an exciting appetizer or side dish.
Sweet and Sour Pineapple: The sweetness of fresh pineapple chunks complements the dish’s spice, providing a delightful fruity contrast.
Spicy Pickled Vegetables: Serve these tangy bites on the side for an extra kick that enlivens the flavors of your meal.
Mango Lassi: This creamy drink cools the palate, balancing the dish’s intensity with its sweet and yogurt-based flavor.
Sesame Green Beans: The nuttiness of sesame oil and crisp-tender texture makes this side dish a perfect companion to your hearty stir-fry.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light treat offers a refreshing and tangy finish to cleanse your taste buds after the flavorful Dragon Chicken.

Dragon Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right chicken for Dragon Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, as they are tender and cook quickly. When buying chicken, look for pieces that are pink in color with no dark spots, indicating freshness. If you can, choose organic or free-range options for better flavor!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Dragon Chicken?
Very good question! You can store leftover Dragon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Ensure the chicken is cool before sealing to maintain its crispiness. If you want to keep it longer, it’s best to freeze it.

Can I freeze Dragon Chicken? How should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Dragon Chicken! To do this, first, let the dish cool completely. Then, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or a sealed plastic bag, making sure to separate it from the sauce. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What if the Chicken doesn’t turn out crispy?
No worries! If your chicken isn’t crispy, it could be due to overcrowding in the pan while frying, which lowers the oil temperature. To fix this, fry the chicken in small batches and ensure the oil temperature is around 350°F. Also, make sure to drain it well on paper towels after frying.

Can I adjust the spice level in Dragon Chicken?
Absolutely! The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Reduce the number of dried red chilies or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer it milder. Alternatively, you can add some extra chilies if you’d like more heat. It’s all about your taste!

Is Dragon Chicken safe for pets or those with food allergies?
While Dragon Chicken is delightful for human enjoyment, you should be cautious with pets, particularly with ingredients like garlic and onion, which can be harmful to them. If there are any allergies, be mindful of specific ingredients like soy sauce or sesame oil. Always consult with a vet if uncertain!