Description
These Thai Chicken Bites are crispy, juicy, and packed with bold Thai flavors! Marinated in a blend of garlic, lime, and aromatic spices, then fried or baked to golden perfection, they make the perfect appetizer or snack. Serve them with a sweet chili dipping sauce, and you’ll have a dish that disappears in minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup cornstarch (for coating)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
For the Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce:
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey (optional for extra sweetness)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Chopped peanuts
- Sesame seeds
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces, toss to coat, and let marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- In one bowl, whisk the egg.
- In another bowl, mix cornstarch and flour.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip marinated chicken pieces into the egg, then coat in the flour mixture.
- Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel.
(Alternative: Bake or Air Fry for a Healthier Option)
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Arrange the crispy chicken bites on a plate.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, peanuts, and sesame seeds.
- Serve with the sweet chili dipping sauce and lime wedges.
Notes
Marinate Longer – For deeper Thai flavors, let the chicken sit for up to 1 hour.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch – Dip in egg and flour twice for a thicker crust.
Use a Thermometer – Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
For Extra Heat – Add Sriracha or more chili flakes to the marinade.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Thai