How to Cook Thai-style Fried Chicken

Thai-style fried chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior, combined with aromatic herbs and spices, make it a favorite among chicken lovers. Here’s how you can cook this delightful dish at home.

Ingredients

To prepare Thai-style fried chicken, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Marinating the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken for maximum flavor:

  1. In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and coconut milk.
  2. Add the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preparing to Fry

Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to prepare for frying:

  1. Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, place the all-purpose flour.
  3. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, ensuring a uniform coating. Shake off any excess flour.

Frying the Chicken

Now, let's get frying:

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. You should have enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
  2. Once the oil reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), carefully add the coated chicken pieces, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  3. Fry the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally for even coloring.
  4. Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Thai-style fried chicken is best served hot and crispy. Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for an aromatic touch.
  • Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
  • Pair with jasmine rice and a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Tips for Perfect Thai-style Fried Chicken

For the best results, consider the following tips:

  • Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor.
  • Temperature control is crucial; make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy.
  • Experiment with spices such as turmeric or paprika in the flour for added flavor and color.

Enjoy your homemade Thai-style fried chicken, bursting with exotic flavors and perfect for any occasion!