a fiery and flavorful dish that has taken the culinary world by storm. Known for its spicy kick, tender chicken, and unique blend of flavors, this dish is perfect for those who love bold and exotic tastes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something extraordinary, dragon chicken is a must-try recipe.
What Is Dragon Chicken?
is a popular Indo-Chinese dish featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a rich, spicy sauce. It is typically served as an appetizer or a main course, paired with fried rice or noodles.
This dish gets its name from the “fiery” appearance and flavor profile. The vibrant red hue and bold spices make it a standout dish on any table. For more on the origin of Indo-Chinese cuisine, check out BBC’s feature on fusion foods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make authentic dragon chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 500 grams boneless chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons cornflour
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for deep frying
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 capsicum (bell pepper), julienned
- 2 dried red chilies
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Spring onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Recipe for Dragon Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Combine chicken strips, cornflour, all-purpose flour, egg, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep pan or wok.
- Fry the marinated chicken until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
- Heat oil in a wok. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
- Add onions, capsicum, and dried red chilies. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and sugar. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve
- Add the fried chicken to the sauce. Toss until the chicken is well coated.
- Garnish with spring onions and serve hot with fried rice or noodles.
For additional tips on frying chicken, visit The Kitchn’s guide to frying techniques.
Variations of Dragon Chicken
Vegetarian Version
- Replace chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu.
- Follow the same steps for marination and frying.
Extra Spicy
- Add finely chopped green chilies to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Increase the quantity of chili sauce or use a spicier variant.
Sweet and Spicy
- Add pineapple chunks to the sauce for a sweet twist.
- Reduce the amount of chili sauce slightly to balance flavors.
Nutty Twist
- Add roasted cashews or peanuts to the sauce for crunch and flavor.
- This variation is great for texture enthusiasts.
Tips for Perfect Dragon Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and vegetables enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of chili sauce and dried red chilies based on your preference.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispy chicken.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste the sauce before adding the chicken to ensure it’s balanced.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot to maintain the crispy texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 18g
For a lighter version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. This will reduce the calorie and fat content significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called dragon chicken?
The name “dragon chicken” comes from its fiery red appearance and bold, spicy flavors, reminiscent of a dragon’s fire.
Why are Dong Tao chickens so expensive?
Dong Tao chickens, also called “dragon chickens,” are a rare Vietnamese breed prized for their thick legs and unique taste. They’re costly due to their rarity and long breeding process.
How much is a Vietnamese ?
The price of a Vietnamese dragon chicken varies but can range from $100 to $200 per bird, depending on its size and quality.
What is dragon fire chicken?
Dragon fire chicken is a variation of dragon chicken, often featuring a spicier sauce and additional fiery elements like Szechuan peppers.
Pairing Suggestions for Dragon Chicken
To make your meal complete, consider pairing dragon chicken with these dishes:
- Vegetable Fried Rice: A classic complement to the rich and spicy flavors.
- Hakka Noodles: Adds a satisfying, noodle-based contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Steamed Dumplings: Their mild flavors balance the spice of the chicken.
- Mango Salad: The sweetness and tang of mango provide a refreshing counterpoint.
The History of Dragon Chicken
The dish originated as part of Indo-Chinese cuisine, a fusion of Indian and Chinese flavors. This culinary style emerged in Kolkata, India, where Chinese immigrants adapted traditional recipes to suit Indian palates. Dragon chicken embodies this fusion, blending Chinese techniques like stir-frying with Indian spices. Its vibrant color and bold flavors have made it a favorite in restaurants and homes alike.
Expert Tips for Hosting with Dragon Chicken
- Presentation: Serve the dish in a large platter garnished with spring onions and sesame seeds.
- Themed Meal: Pair with other Indo-Chinese dishes like chili paneer and manchow soup for a cohesive menu.
- Customizable Heat: Offer chili flakes on the side for guests who prefer extra heat.
Internal Links
- Easy Fried Rice Recipe
- Top 5 Indo-Chinese Dishes to Try
- How to Make Perfect Noodles
- Vegetarian Indo-Chinese Recipes
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