If you love bold flavors and a fiery kick, this recipe is perfect for you. It captures the spicy, numbing essence of Sichuan cuisine in a crispy, delicious chicken dish that's easy to make at home.
Start by putting the flour in a big bowl. In a separate shallow dish, beat the egg. Take a piece of chicken and coat it in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and coat it again in the flour. Place it on a plate and repeat with the rest of the chicken. Let the coated chicken sit for about 10 minutes to set.
While the chicken is resting, heat the chili bean sauce and 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Give it a good whisk now and then and let it cook for about 8 minutes so the flavors come together.
Next, heat about 4 cups of oil in another large skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, cooking each side for about 4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Finally, use tongs to toss the fried chicken in the chili bean sauce until each piece is nicely coated. Arrange the chicken on a serving plate, sprinkle with ground Sichuan peppercorns, and dig in right away while it’s hot and spicy!
- Use fresh Sichuan peppercorns for the best aroma and flavor.
- Fry the chicken pieces twice to get an extra crispy coating.
- Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of dried chilies and chili oil.
This dish brings together bold, fiery flavors with a satisfying crunch. The combination of numbing Sichuan peppercorns and spicy chili creates a unique taste experience that excites the palate. It's perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat and authentic Chinese flavors at home.
Serve with steamed white rice or simple stir-fried greens to balance the heat. A cool cucumber salad or a light soup can also help refresh the palate between bites.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a hot oven or skillet to keep the chicken crispy instead of using a microwave.
