Name: Dragon Chicken: Your New Favorite Spicy Stir-Fry Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast (cut into strips); 1 large Egg White; 0.5 cup Cornstarch (or flour for alternative texture); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (for sautéing); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 inch Ginger (minced); to taste Dried Chilies (adjust for spice preference); 0.5 cup Ketchup (or homemade sweet and sour sauce); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (use tamari for gluten-free option); 1 tablespoon Chili Garlic Sauce (or Sriracha if unavailable); 1 tablespoon Vinegar (rice vinegar preferred); 1 tablespoon Sugar (or honey as a substitute); as needed tablespoons Water (to adjust sauce consistency); 2 stalks Green Onions (sliced); 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds

As I stirred the colorful ingredients in my skillet, the tantalizing aroma of garlic and ginger filled the air, instantly transforming my kitchen into a bustling restaurant. Today, I’m excited to share my Spicy Dragon Chicken recipe, a delightful Indo-Chinese fusion dish that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. This dish takes crispy chicken strips and coats them in a luscious, spicy sauce that will have everyone at the dinner table craving seconds. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade yet reminiscent of takeout, Dragon Chicken delivers a satisfying kick without the fuss. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Dragon Chicken a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The bold combination of spices and tender chicken creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist.

Quick to Prepare: Whipping up this fiery dish takes no time at all, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Versatile Ingredients: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist, or serve it over noodles for a filling meal.

Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade takeout that rivals your favorite takeout spot, with far less guilt.

Family Favorite: With its spicy kick and vibrant flavors, this Dragon Chicken is bound to become a hit with family and friends, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Dragon Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – Provides the main protein; cut into strips for faster cooking.
• Egg White – Binds and coats the chicken for a crispy texture.
• Cornstarch – Gives the chicken a crunchy exterior when fried; alternative: use flour for a different texture.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential to enhance the overall flavor profile.

For the Sauce
• Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor and is key for sautéing the aromatics.
• Garlic & Ginger – Fundamental ingredients that provide depth and fragrance to the dish.
• Dried Chilies – Contributes heat; adjust quantity based on your spice preference.
• Ketchup – Adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess; alternate: homemade sweet and sour sauce.
• Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Chili Garlic Sauce – Offers an additional layer of heat; substitute with Sriracha if unavailable.
• Vinegar – Balances flavors; rice vinegar is preferred but any mild variety can work.
• Sugar – Helps to balance the heat; honey can be a great substitute.
• Water – Used to adjust sauce consistency for that perfect coating.

For Garnish
• Green Onions – Adds freshness and a hint of crunch when sprinkled on top.
• Sesame Seeds – Enhances presentation and gives a delightful crunch.

Get ready to experience the fiery delight of Dragon Chicken!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dragon Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by placing your chicken strips in a bowl; add egg white, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well until each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes—this will ensure a flavorful and crispy texture, perfect for your Dragon Chicken.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat a generous amount of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden and crispy, turning occasionally for even cooking. Once done, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a touch more sesame oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic, ginger, and dried chilies. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant, being cautious not to burn the garlic. The enticing aroma will signal you’re ready to create the delicious sauce for your Dragon Chicken.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in ketchup, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, vinegar, and sugar into the skillet, creating a vibrant mixture. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes; if the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust flavors, ensuring it balances heat and sweetness perfectly for your dish.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Fold the crispy chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece evenly. Let the mixture simmer for an additional minute—this will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. You should see the chicken glistening with that irresistible sauce, ready to impress at the dinner table.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, transfer your delicious Dragon Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added crunch and brightness. Serve hot, ideally over fluffy steamed rice or with noodles, turning your meal into a colorful feast that your family will love!

How to Store and Freeze Dragon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the Dragon Chicken fresh. Reheat on the stovetop for best results, adding a splash of water if needed.

Freezer: Freeze portioned Dragon Chicken in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To retain crispiness, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, tossing gently until warm. Avoid microwaving for the best texture.

Make Ahead Options

Dragon Chicken is a fantastic recipe to prep in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken strips with egg white and cornstarch for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, which ensures they stay flavorful and tender. Additionally, the spicy sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply reheat it on the stovetop while adding a splash of water to maintain the desired consistency. When you’re ready to serve, fry the marinated chicken, combine it with the reheated sauce, and toss until well-coated—resulting in a quick, restaurant-quality meal that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

What to Serve with Dragon Chicken

Enhance your Dragon Chicken experience with these delightful side dishes that perfectly balance flavors and textures.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, jasmine rice absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully, providing a soothing backdrop to each bite.
Garlicky Stir-Fried Greens: Lightly sautéed bok choy or spinach add freshness and a slight crunch, making for a vibrant contrast to the saucy chicken.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy treats filled with vegetables and dipping sauce offer an enjoyable, crispy texture that complements the soft chicken.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: The refreshing crunch of cucumbers tossed in a tangy vinegar dressing helps to cleanse the palate between bites of spicy Dragon Chicken.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a savory sesame dressing, these noodles are a satisfying and hearty partner to the dish, enveloping the flavors beautifully.
Mango Lassi: A sweet and creamy mango lassi serves as the perfect drink to cool down the heat from the chicken, creating a lovely balance at the table.

Imagine indulging in these sides as they perfectly harmonize with the delectable, spicy hit of your favorite Dragon Chicken!

Dragon Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Whether you’re keen to spice things up or tailor this dish to your dietary preferences, Dragon Chicken welcomes customization!

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh for a delicious, protein-rich alternative that maintains all the flavorful goodness.
Nut-Free Option: Use olive oil instead of sesame oil to enjoy a nut-free version without losing the taste of this vibrant dish.
Low-Carb: Skip the rice and serve over zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a fresh, low-carb take on your Dragon Chicken experience. The zoodles soak up the sauce beautifully and keep the dish light.
Extra Crunch: For an added texture twist, throw in some bell peppers or broccoli during the sauté step. They’ll bring a delightful crunch and vibrant colors to the plate.
Heat Factor: Adjust the heat by using fewer dried chilies or adding sliced jalapeños directly into the sauce—perfect for those who enjoy a milder kick.
Sweet & Savory: Experiment with a touch of honey or maple syrup in the sauce for an extra hint of sweetness. It beautifully balances out the spicy notes.
Garnish Variety: Switch up your garnishes by adding cilantro alongside green onions for a fresh twist; it adds a lovely herbal aroma that elevates the dish.

Don’t forget to explore other recipes like my delightful Cheesy Garlic Chicken or the delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken for even more options to satisfy your cravings!

Expert Tips for Dragon Chicken

Marination Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and achieve the ultimate crispy texture in your Dragon Chicken.
Heat Control: Keep the skillet over medium-high heat when frying to ensure the chicken gets crispy. Lower heat can lead to steaming instead of frying.
Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying the chicken. Fry in small batches for that perfect crunch without losing moisture.
Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before adding the chicken. Adjust the spice level by modifying the number of dried chilies based on your preference for heat.
Perfect Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little water to reach your desired consistency. A smooth coating is key for delicious Dragon Chicken!

Dragon Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken breast for Dragon Chicken?
Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are firm, plump, and pale in color without any dark spots. This indicates freshness. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture, ensuring your Dragon Chicken truly shines!

What is the best way to store leftover Dragon Chicken?
You can store any delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often put mine in the fridge right after dinner. When reheating, simply place it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little splash of water to keep the sauce moist. This helps retain that amazing flavor!

Can I freeze Dragon Chicken?
Yes! I recommend freezing your Dragon Chicken in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it out. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best results, warm it in a skillet to restore that crispy texture!

Why is my chicken not crispy after frying?
If your chicken isn’t crispy, it could be due to overcrowding the pan while frying, which causes steaming rather than frying. Ensure each piece has enough space to cook evenly and maintain high heat. Also, try letting the chicken marinate longer to improve the coating’s crunchiness.

Is Dragon Chicken suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace regular soy sauce with tamari. Double-check other condiments for hidden gluten, and you’re set for enjoying Dragon Chicken without worry! Enjoy this spicy delight knowing it fits your dietary needs!

Can I make Dragon Chicken vegetarian?
Yes! I often make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Just marinate or prep and cook them similarly. This way, you can still enjoy that fiery sauce and satisfy your cravings with a plant-based option. Enjoy the deliciousness!