Name: Crispy Chinese Chicken On A Stick for Your Next Feast
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Chicken Thighs (Cut into ½-inch thick pieces.); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Adds umami richness.); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Opt for low-sodium for a healthier bite.); 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce (Offers a sweet hint.); 4 tablespoons Water (Helps adjust sauce consistency.); 1 tablespoon Chinese Five-Spice Powder (Delivers aromatic complexity.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can use fresh minced garlic.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Use sparingly to avoid off-flavors.); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Try honey for a twist or omit entirely.); ½ cup Cornstarch (Key for that crispy texture.)

“Just the other day, I overheard a friend lamenting how the local buffet has never quite satisfied their cravings. It sparked a memory of the crispy, flavorful Chinese Chicken On A Stick I used to enjoy as a treat. This easy-to-make recipe captures that beloved buffet experience right in your kitchen, offering a delightful five-spice seasoned twist that elevates chicken to a whole new level. Not only is it the perfect centerpiece for gatherings, but it’s also a fun way to shake up weeknight dinners. Imagine serving up these golden, crunchy skewers with a side of sweet and sour sauce that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!”

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Incredible Flavor: The five-spice marinade infuses your chicken with aromatic depth, bringing restaurant-quality taste to your home.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a crispy Chinese Chicken On A Stick ready in just over an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Crispy Delight: The cornstarch coating ensures each bite is perfectly crispy, providing a delightful contrast to the juicy chicken within.

Versatile Choices: Switch it up by trying variations with teriyaki or char siu, allowing you to personalize the recipe to your taste!

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfectly served at parties alongside a dipping sauce, this dish will have everyone coming back for more, just like my other favorites like Chinese Honey Chicken and Korean Spicy Chicken.

Indulge in this recipe, and elevate your dinner game!

Chinese Chicken On A Stick Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a batch of deliciousness with this unbeatable lineup of ingredients!

For the Marinade

Boneless Chicken Thighs – The star of the show! Cut into ½-inch thick pieces for even cooking.
Oyster Sauce – Adds umami richness; no direct substitution, but soy sauce works for vegetarians.
Soy Sauce – Brings depth and saltiness; opt for low-sodium for a healthier bite.
Hoisin Sauce – Offers a sweet hint; can be swapped with a soy sauce and sugar mix if needed.
Water – Helps adjust sauce consistency; no substitutions required.
Chinese Five-Spice Powder – Delivers aromatic complexity; make your own blend for extra flair!
Garlic Powder – Intensifies flavor; fresh minced garlic can be a tasty alternative.
Baking Soda – Tenderizes chicken; use sparingly to avoid off-flavors.
Sugar – Balances out flavors; try honey for a twist or omit it entirely.

For the Coating

Cornstarch – Key for that crispy texture; potato starch can be a suitable replacement.

Enjoy making your Chinese Chicken On A Stick with this simple yet powerful ingredient list, and get ready for a culinary treat that will impress everyone at your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Chicken On A Stick

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine boneless chicken thighs with oyster sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, water, five-spice powder, garlic powder, baking soda, and sugar. Massage the marinade into the chicken pieces thoroughly, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 48 hours for an even richer flavor.

Step 2: Add Cornstarch
After marinating, uncover the chicken and sprinkle cornstarch over the mixture. Gently toss the marinated chicken to ensure an even and thorough coating of cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture in your Chinese Chicken On A Stick. Once fully coated, set the chicken aside for a few minutes while you prepare the skewers.

Step 3: Skewering
Preheat your grill or prepare wooden skewers by soaking them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread each piece of marinated chicken onto the skewers, ensuring they have some space in between for even cooking. Aim for 3 to 4 pieces per skewer, allowing all surfaces to be exposed for maximum crispiness during frying.

Step 4: Heat Oil
In a deep frying pot, pour in enough oil to reach about 1 inch deep and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or frying thermometer for accuracy. It’s important to reach the right temperature to achieve that golden brown color and crispy texture when frying your Chinese Chicken On A Stick. While the oil heats, prepare your workspace for frying.

Step 5: Fry Skewers
Carefully place 3-4 chicken skewers into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, occasionally turning them gently to ensure even browning. The chicken should turn a beautiful golden brown when done. Keep an eye on the temperature of the oil, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain that ideal frying temperature.

Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once the skewers are perfectly golden, use tongs to carefully transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drain off while keeping your Chinese Chicken On A Stick crispy. Let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet and sour, for an irresistible party treat!

Storage Tips for Chinese Chicken On A Stick

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken fresh while ensuring it remains safe to eat.

Freezer: Freeze your Chinese Chicken On A Stick in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen skewers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep flavors intact and texture crisp.

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Chicken On A Stick are ideal for meal prep, making your time in the kitchen a breeze! You can marinate the chicken in the five-spice blend up to 48 hours ahead of time for maximum flavor. Simply mix together the marinade and let your chicken soak overnight in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can skew these marinated chicken pieces up to 24 hours before frying; just keep them covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, heat the oil and fry the skewers until golden and crispy for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. This planning will save you time on busy weeknights while still delivering a delicious homemade dish!

What to Serve with Crispy Chinese Chicken On A Stick?

Imagine a vibrant table set for your next gathering, where savory and sweet flavors dance together, enhancing each delicious bite.

Fried Rice: This classic pairing brings a hearty, comforting component to the meal. The slight nuttiness of fried rice complements the aromatic flavors of the chicken perfectly.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of vegetables adds the perfect crunch and freshness. Toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken.
Sweet and Sour Sauce: This iconic dip adds a tangy kick that balances the rich flavors of your chicken. It’s a fun twist, inviting guests to personalize their bites!
Sesame Noodles: Light and flavorful, sesame noodles offer a lovely contrast to the crispy texture of the chicken. The sesame dressing brings a nutty depth that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Chili Garlic Sauce: For those who crave heat, a drizzle of chili garlic sauce brings a spicy zing that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the marinated chicken. It’s a must-have for adventurous eaters!
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can lighten the meal and introduce a crisp texture. The coolness of the cucumbers complements the richness of the fried chicken.
Tsingtao Beer: This crisp Chinese lager provides a refreshing sip that cleanses the palate between bites. It’s the perfect beverage to elevate your dining experience!

Explore these fabulous pairings to create a memorable feast that celebrates the bold and comforting flavors of your crispy Chinese Chicken On A Stick!

Chinese Chicken On A Stick Variations & Substitutions

Customize your dish with these fun variations, enhancing flavors and textures while keeping the heart of this recipe alive!

Lean Chicken: Swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts for a lighter and healthier option.
Sweet Teriyaki: Marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce instead to achieve a sweeter and slightly different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a splash of chili sauce into your marinade for an exciting spicy twist that will tantalize your taste buds.
Char Siu Style: For a unique twist, try a char siu marinade that combines sweet and savory flavors, offering an authentic Chinese BBQ experience.
Vegetarian Version: Use firm tofu or seitan in place of chicken for a satisfying vegetarian alternative that doubles down on flavor.
Flavorful Marinades: Experiment with different marinades like lemon garlic or sesame ginger, allowing you to create your very own signature recipe!
Extra Crunch: Add breadcrumbs to your cornstarch coating before frying for an extra crunchy texture that’s sure to impress.
Gluten-Free Swap: Use tamari in place of soy sauce and ensure the hoisin sauce is gluten-free for a celiacs-friendly version of this dish.

A side of sweet and sour sauce will complement any variation wonderfully, reminiscent of the famous Korean Spicy Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce. Each adaptation is a delicious opportunity, so let your creativity shine as you enjoy your homemade feast!

Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken On A Stick

Marination Time: Allow your chicken to marinate for 24-48 hours if possible; longer marination enhances flavor and tenderness for your Chinese Chicken On A Stick.
Cut Evenly: Slice chicken thighs into uniform ½-inch pieces to ensure even cooking; uneven pieces can lead to some being undercooked while others are overdone.
Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F; if it’s too low, the chicken will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy instead of crispy.
Space on Skewers: Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between the pieces to allow for even cooking and optimal crispy texture.
Cornstarch Coating: Make sure to coat the marinated chicken evenly with cornstarch; this step is essential for achieving that desired crunch in every bite.

Chinese Chicken On A Stick Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless chicken thighs as they are juicier and more flavorful compared to chicken breasts. Ensure they are cut into uniform ½-inch thick pieces to guarantee even cooking and crispy texture. Look for thighs that have a nice pink color and no dark spots, as this indicates freshness.

How do I store leftovers of Chinese Chicken On A Stick?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture build-up, which can affect the chicken’s texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in an air fryer or oven for the best results—around 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick!

Can I freeze cooked Chinese Chicken On A Stick?
Very! To freeze, place your cooked Chinese Chicken On A Stick in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as mentioned earlier to maintain their delicious crispiness.

What should I do if my chicken is not crispy?
If you find that your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure that the oil is hot enough (350°F). If the oil is too cool, the chicken can absorb more oil and turn out soggy. Another tip is to ensure the cornstarch is evenly coated on the chicken—this is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch. Fry in smaller batches to avoid overcrowding, which can also prevent crispiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re making this dish for vegetarians, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or vegetable skewers. Just make sure to adjust the marinade accordingly. If anyone has allergies to soy, you can use coconut aminos as an alternative to both soy sauce and oyster sauce. Always double-check labels for potential allergens, especially with pre-made sauces.

How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for 1 hour up to 48 hours; the longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender it will be. However, I recommend not exceeding 48 hours as the chicken might begin to break down with too much marinade. For best flavor, aim for somewhere between 24 to 36 hours!