/ 5
Chicken Bites in Sweet and Sour Sauce with Fennel-Cucumber Salad
Chicken Bites in Sweet and Sour Sauce with Fennel-Cucumber Salad
Lunch Main course
Thai

Chicken Bites in Sweet and Sour Sauce with Fennel-Cucumber Salad

September 11, 2024
Views 53
0 x saved
recipes.zone
141 recipes

Chicken Bites in Sweet and Sour Sauce with Fennel-Cucumber Salad recipe brings together the crispy texture of chicken bites with the tangy and slightly spicy flavors of a sweet and sour sauce.

Paired with a refreshing fennel-cucumber salad, this dish is a harmonious blend of taste and texture that is sure to please your palate.

The Inspiration Behind the Dish

Sweet and sour chicken is a classic dish in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese takeout menus. The concept of balancing sweet and tangy flavors with crispy chicken has been adored by many across the globe.

The addition of a fennel-cucumber salad in this recipe provides a modern twist, adding freshness and a unique flavor profile that complements the richness of the chicken.

The Health Benefits

This dish not only tastes great but also offers some health benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Fennel is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to aid digestion.

Cucumbers are hydrating and provide antioxidants that help in maintaining healthy skin and overall health.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to achieve a crispy texture without absorbing too much oil.
  • Double frying the chicken pieces helps to lock in the moisture and keep the batter crispy even after coating with the sauce.
  • When making the sauce, be cautious with the chili peppers. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
  • For the salad, using a mandoline slicer helps achieve uniform and thin slices of fennel and cucumber, enhancing the texture and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

  • Serve the chicken bites over a bed of steamed jasmine rice for a more substantial meal.
  • The fennel-cucumber salad can be served on the side or even mixed into a larger green salad for added crunch and flavor.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate the presentation and add a burst of freshness.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Bites in Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this chicken bites in sweet and sour sauce with fennel-cucumber salad will impress everyone at the table.

The combination of crispy, savory chicken and the refreshing, tangy salad creates a perfect balance, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Chicken Bites in Sweet and Sour Sauce + Final Thoughts

Crispy chicken bites in a sweet and sour sauce paired with a refreshing cucumber and fennel salad are ideal for a family lunch or dinner.

Double frying ensures perfectly crispy chicken that pairs wonderfully with the tangy sauce and light salad.

Recipe Preparation Steps
1.

Preparing the Chicken: Cut the chicken into small pieces. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and water, and mix well. Marinate the chicken in the batter and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

2.

Preparing the Salad Dressing: In a small saucepan, combine wine vinegar, water, sugar, and spices. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Slice the cucumber and fennel thinly using a mandolin or peeler.

Pour the cooled dressing over the vegetables and refrigerate.

3.

Frying the Chicken: Pour oil into a deep pan and heat to about 320 °F (160 °C). Fry the marinated chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring they are at least two-thirds submerged. Fry for about 40 seconds, then remove and drain on paper towels.

4.

Once all pieces are fried, repeat the process, frying the chicken until golden brown. Double frying ensures the batter stays crispy.

5.

Making the Sauce: In a new pan, heat two tablespoons of oil. Add thinly sliced ginger and finely chopped garlic, and sauté briefly, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add soy sauce, vinegar, orange juice, sugar, and chili peppers.

6.

Bring to a boil and cook for one minute. Remove from heat and let it rest for a moment. Pour the warm sauce over the fried chicken and mix well.

7.

Serving: Serve the chicken with the marinated salad.

Please rate this recipe
/ 5
Chicken Bites in Sweet and Sour Sauce with Fennel-Cucumber Salad

Related recipes

Discover everyday recipes with ratings and reviews from fellow home cooks like yourself.
All recipes