If you love a sweet, spicy, and sticky chicken dish that packs a punch, this Easy Firecracker Chicken is for you! Crispy fried chicken bites are coated in a bold, tangy sauce made with buffalo sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. It’s quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and absolutely delicious served over rice or noodles.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – Perfect for crispy, juicy bites.
- ½ cup cornstarch – Helps create that light and crispy coating.
- 2 large eggs, beaten – Acts as a binding agent for the coating.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Basic seasoning for the chicken.
- ¼ cup vegetable oil – For frying (use canola or sunflower oil for best results).
For the Firecracker Sauce:
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (or hot sauce of choice) – Adds heat and tang.
- ⅓ cup brown sugar – Balances the heat with sweetness and gives a sticky texture.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Enhances the tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce – Adds umami depth to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the sauce with delicious garlic flavor.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For extra spice lovers.
For Garnish (Optional but Recommended!):
- Green onions, chopped – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Sesame seeds – A slight crunch and nutty touch.
💡 Quick Tip: If you want an extra crispy chicken, double fry the pieces for the ultimate crunch!
👨🍳 How to Make Easy Firecracker Chicken
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Dip each piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Step 3: Make the Firecracker Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine buffalo sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Add the crispy chicken pieces into the sauce and toss until fully coated.
- Let it cook for 1-2 minutes so the sauce clings perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or even inside lettuce wraps.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for the final touch!
🍽 Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Tongs or a spatula
- Paper towels for draining
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes! Instead of frying, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce the buffalo sauce and add more brown sugar or a tablespoon of honey to mellow out the heat.
What can I serve with Firecracker Chicken?
It pairs perfectly with steamed rice, fried rice, stir-fried veggies, or even in tacos!
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for best texture.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Try this recipe with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a delicious variation.
🔥 Conclusion
This Easy Firecracker Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, sweet, and savory. It’s quick to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any meal.
👉 If you loved this recipe, share it on Facebook or save it on Pinterest for later! 🍽🔥
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