Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls Recip ewith Sweet and Sour Sauce
Chinese Chicken Balls are a beloved dish that combines crispy, tender chicken with a tangy, sweet sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. This delicious recipe is a favorite for those who enjoy Chinese takeout but prefer making it from the comfort of their home. The crispy golden coating on the chicken balls and the flavor-packed sweet and sour sauce make them a perfect appetizer or main course for any occasion.
Making Chinese Chicken Balls at home allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking, resulting in a fresher, healthier alternative to store-bought versions. The process involves coating tender pieces of chicken in a light batter, deep-frying them until crispy, and then tossing them in a zesty sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar, sugar, and ketchup.
Whether you're hosting a family dinner, a party, or simply craving some comfort food, these homemade Chinese Chicken Balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re not just delicious but also fun to make and serve. The crispy chicken balls pair wonderfully with a side of fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make this crispy, savory dish that will bring the flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant straight to your table.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl : For mixing the chicken batter and combining the ingredients for the sweet and sour sauce.
- Deep Frying Pan or Wok : Used for deep frying the chicken balls to achieve that golden, crispy texture. A wok is ideal because it allows the oil to heat evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons : For accurately measuring ingredients like flour, cornstarch, sugar, and soy sauce.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon : Essential for safely lowering the chicken into the hot oil and removing them once they're perfectly crispy without losing their shape.
- Thermometer : To check the oil temperature and ensure it's around 350°F, which is ideal for frying the chicken balls without them becoming greasy.
- Small Saucepan : For preparing the sweet and sour sauce, allowing it to thicken into a glossy texture.
- Paper Towels : For draining excess oil from the fried chicken balls, keeping them crispy and less greasy.
- Large Serving Bowl : For tossing the fried chicken balls with the sweet and sour sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Balls:
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional, for thickening
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Balls: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and cold water to create a smooth batter. Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Fry the Chicken Balls: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch (if using), and water. Stir until the sauce is smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a glossy sauce.
- Toss the Chicken in the Sauce: Once the chicken balls are fried and drained, place them in a large bowl. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Serve: Serve the crispy Chinese chicken balls immediately, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy them with steamed rice or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
To make this recipe even more delicious, ensure the batter is light and crispy by using cold water and frying the chicken balls at the right oil temperature (350°F). For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before coating it. Additionally, adjust the sweet and sour sauce to your taste by balancing the tanginess with a little more sugar or vinegar. You can also add pineapple chunks or bell peppers to the sauce for added texture and sweetness!