When you think of comfort food, what pops into your mind? For me, it’s the tantalizing aroma of crispy Chinese chicken balls with sweet and sour sauce bliss. Imagine biting into a perfectly fried morsel that crackles on the outside and melts in your mouth, all while being enveloped in a tangy-sweet sauce that makes your taste buds dance. Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl This dish is not just food; it’s a joyful experience, perfect for any occasion that calls for great company and even greater flavors.
This recipe takes me back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and plates were piled high. Every time I made these crispy delights, my friends would gather around as if summoned by the irresistible scent wafting through the kitchen. So grab your apron, because we’re diving into a flavor adventure that promises to impress your guests or just make your weeknight dinner a little more special.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] These crispy Chinese chicken balls are easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy nights. The flavor profile is a delightful blend of sweet and savory that keeps everyone coming back for more. Their golden-brown appearance is sure to impress at any gathering. Plus, they are versatile enough to be served as appetizers or main dishes. [/info_box]
Every time I serve these chicken balls, I can count on wide-eyed reactions from my friends—it’s always an instant hit.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs bring juiciness and tenderness; they outperform breasts any day in flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for coating the chicken before frying to achieve that golden crust.
Eggs: Use large eggs—they help bind everything together for a perfect texture. For more inspiration, check out this creamy deviled eggs recipe.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch; they make all the difference in texture.
Soy Sauce: Choose low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Rice Vinegar: A splash adds brightness; it balances sweetness in the sauce beautifully.
Ketchup: It’s not just for fries! Ketchup brings that classic sweet flavor we crave.
Sugar: Just a bit enhances the sweet notes in our tangy sauce and balances flavors.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth; fresh garlic can also work if you’re feeling adventurous. Sticky Chilli And Garlic Tofu.
Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying; use an oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.
For the Sauce:
Green Bell Pepper: Adds color and crunch; feel free to swap in red or yellow peppers for sweetness.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned—either works! They add a juicy burst of sweetness to each bite.
Cornstarch: This thickens our sauce nicely without making it gloopy—just right!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and marinate with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and soy sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt and garlic powder.
- Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in flour, dip in egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry chicken balls for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
- In another pan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch mixed with water, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. Stir until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Toss crispy chicken balls in the sauce and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Serving Size: 5 chicken balls (130g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Chicken Balls
Start by cutting boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Savory Black Pepper Chicken Let them marinate while you prepare the coating.
Create Your Coating Station
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt and garlic powder. This setup will ensure even coating for crispness.
Dredge the Chicken
Take each piece of marinated chicken, coat it in flour first, dip it into the egg wash, then roll it in breadcrumbs until fully covered. Make sure each piece gets an even layer for maximum crunch.
Fry Until Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add chicken balls—fry them until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Spicy Chicken Ramen Drain on paper towels afterward.
Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In another pan over medium heat, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch mixed with water, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. Stir until thickened; this should take about 3-4 minutes.
Toss Everything Together
Once your chicken balls are crispy and your sauce is ready, toss them together in the pan until every ball is coated evenly. Serve hot and watch everyone swoon!
Now you have crispy Chinese chicken balls with sweet and sour sauce bliss right at home! Enjoy this dish during movie nights or family dinners—you won’t regret it! For more inspiration, check out this zesty strawberry salsa recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce Bliss are a delightful treat. Achieving the perfect crunch comes from using cold water in the batter. The balance of flavors between sweet and tangy makes every bite an explosion of joy. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ideal texture, fry the chicken balls first, then prepare your sweet and sour sauce while they cook.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding crushed pineapple or bell peppers to your sweet and sour sauce for extra flavor and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for a crispy finish.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your crispy chicken balls. Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to prevent sogginess. For a fun twist, try different sauces like teriyaki or orange glaze! [/info_box]
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings, where everyone fought over these crispy delights. Seeing their smiles made every frying splatter worth it!
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well but may be slightly drier than thighs.
What can I serve with Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls?
Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry to the sauce while simmering for thickness.
Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce
Description
Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce are the ultimate comfort food, delivering a tantalizing crunch and a burst of flavor. Each bite features tender chicken enveloped in a crispy coating, perfectly complemented by a tangy-sweet sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to impress family and friends. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
