Dinner Recipes

February 4, 2026

Taiwanese Fried Chicken: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It

Name: Taiwanese Fried Chicken: 7 Reasons You'll Crave It
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless; 1 cup sweet potato flour; 1/2 cup rice flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp five-spice powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice wine; 2 tbsp sugar; Oil for frying

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

32 Views • 12 min read

Taiwanese Fried Chicken: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Taiwanese Fried Chicken! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Taiwan. I can still recall my first bite—the crispy exterior giving way to juicy, flavorful chicken that’s seasoned to perfection. The combination of spices makes each piece sing with flavor, and trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one! It’s the kind of street food that draws you in, and once you make it at home, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. Ready to dive in?

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients for Taiwanese Fried Chicken is super simple, and I promise it’s worth every bit of effort! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 lbs boneless chicken thighs – I love using thighs for their juicy texture, but feel free to use chicken breasts if you prefer!
1 cup sweet potato flour – This gives the chicken that amazing crunch, so don’t skip it!
1/2 cup rice flour – This helps create that light, crispy coating that we all adore.
1 tsp garlic powder – Because who doesn’t love garlic? It adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
1 tsp five-spice powder – This is the secret weapon for that authentic Taiwanese taste. Trust me, it’s magical!
1 tsp salt – To enhance all those beautiful flavors.
1/2 tsp pepper – Just a pinch to add a bit of kick.
1/2 cup soy sauce – This is our marinade base, bringing saltiness and umami to the chicken.
1/4 cup rice wine – It adds a lovely sweetness and depth; you won’t regret it!
2 tbsp sugar – Just a touch to balance the savory notes.
Oil for frying – Enough to submerge the chicken pieces; I usually go for vegetable oil for its high smoke point.

Make sure you’ve got everything on hand before you start cooking, and let’s get ready for some deliciousness!

How to Prepare Taiwanese Fried Chicken

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! The process is straightforward, and I promise the end result will have you dancing with joy. Here’s how to make that crispy, flavorful Taiwanese Fried Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First things first, let’s cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. I usually aim for about 1 to 2 inches; this helps ensure they cook evenly and quickly. Plus, smaller pieces are just perfect for snacking! Make sure all the pieces are roughly the same size so you don’t end up with some overcooked while others are still raw.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Next up, it’s time to marinate! In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Mix it all together until the chicken is well-coated. This is where the magic happens! Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—this really allows all those flavors to soak in and makes the chicken so deliciously tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

While your chicken is marinating, let’s whip up that amazing coating. In another bowl, mix together sweet potato flour, rice flour, garlic powder, five-spice powder, salt, and pepper. Each ingredient has its role: the sweet potato flour gives that fabulous crunch, while the rice flour lightens things up. You want a nice, dry mixture that will stick beautifully to the chicken.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Now it’s time to heat some oil! In a deep pan, pour in enough oil to submerge the chicken. Heat it up to about 350°F (175°C); this is the sweet spot for frying. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping in a tiny bit of the flour mixture—it should sizzle right away. Be careful, it can splatter!

Step 5: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, take the marinated chicken pieces and coat them in your flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, gently drop them into the hot oil (don’t overcrowd the pan!). Fry for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn that gorgeous golden brown and crispy. Oh, the smell is divine!

Step 6: Drain and Serve

When they’re done, carefully remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. This step is key to keeping them crispy! Serve them hot with some fresh cilantro and chili sauce for dipping, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Taiwan right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this Taiwanese Fried Chicken! It’s not just another meal; it’s an adventure for your taste buds. Here’s why you’re going to love making this dish:

Quick and Easy: In just 45 minutes, you can go from raw ingredients to a plate of crispy, flavorful chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick snack!
Flavorful and Crispy: The combination of sweet potato and rice flour creates an irresistible crunch that’s complemented by the rich, aromatic spices. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a dish that you’ll crave again and again.

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite in your home! You’ll love how easy it is to impress friends and family with these delicious bites of happiness.

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Now, before you dive into this mouthwatering Taiwanese Fried Chicken, I just want to give you a little heads up about the nutritional information. The values can vary a lot depending on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. While I can’t provide exact numbers, here’s what you can typically expect:

Calories: Around 400 per serving
Fat: About 20g
Protein: Approximately 30g
Carbohydrates: Roughly 30g

So, keep in mind that these values are estimates, and the actual nutrition may differ. It’s all about balancing deliciousness with a little bit of awareness, right? Enjoy every crispy bite without any guilt—after all, you deserve it!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Taiwanese Fried Chicken turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to ensure you achieve that crispy, mouthwatering goodness everyone loves:

Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and ingredients. The better your chicken, the tastier your dish will be! I swear by using organic or free-range chicken thighs for the juiciest and most flavorful results.
Don’t Rush the Marination: Make sure to let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, go for an hour or even overnight! The longer it sits, the more those flavors will penetrate the meat, making it super tender and delicious.
Perfect Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial! If it’s too hot, your chicken will burn before it cooks through. If it’s too cool, you’ll end up with greasy, soggy pieces. A kitchen thermometer is your best friend here, aiming for around 350°F (175°C).
Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan! This can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches, giving each piece plenty of space to crisp up beautifully.
Let Them Drain: After frying, don’t skip the paper towel step! Letting your chicken drain on paper towels for a few minutes will help keep that crunch intact. Nobody likes soggy fried chicken!
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to tweak the spices in the flour mixture! Adding chili powder for heat or even some sesame seeds for an extra crunch can elevate your dish even more. Play around and find your perfect flavor combo!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best Taiwanese Fried Chicken ever! Enjoy the process and happy frying!

Variations

One of the best things about Taiwanese Fried Chicken is how versatile it is! Once you get the basic recipe down, feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variations to try:

Spicy Kick: If you’re a heat lover, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. You can even toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra punch!
Herb Infusion: Mix in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano into your flour coating for a fragrant twist. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can be sprinkled on top after frying for a burst of color and flavor.
Sesame Crunch: Add toasted sesame seeds to the flour mixture for a delightful nutty flavor and extra crunch. It’s a lovely way to elevate the dish!
Garlic Lover’s Delight: If you can’t get enough garlic, increase the amount of garlic powder in the coating or even add minced fresh garlic to the marinade for an intense burst of flavor.
Sweet and Savory: For a different flavor profile, consider drizzling some honey or maple syrup over the fried chicken just before serving. It creates a sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with the savory spices.
Dipping Sauces Galore: Serve your chicken with a variety of dipping sauces! A spicy chili sauce is a classic, but you could also try a tangy garlic soy sauce, a zesty lime aioli, or even a creamy ranch dressing for a twist.
Asian Fusion: Incorporate some Asian flavors by adding a splash of sesame oil to the marinade or serving the chicken over a bed of rice with pickled vegetables. It’s a delightful way to blend cuisines!

With these variations, you can keep your Taiwanese Fried Chicken exciting and tailored to your taste! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination. Happy frying!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up some incredible Taiwanese Fried Chicken, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more delightful! I love pairing this crispy treat with a few sides that complement its flavors perfectly. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic choice! The fluffy texture of jasmine rice soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken, making every bite satisfying. You can even sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for an extra pop of flavor!
Asian Slaw: A refreshing crunch is always a good idea! Toss together some cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers with a light sesame dressing. It adds a vibrant color and a tangy contrast to the rich, crispy chicken.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Whip up a quick stir-fry with your favorite veggies like broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers. A splash of soy sauce and a hint of garlic can elevate the dish and provide a lovely balance to the meal.
Pickled Cucumbers: These are a must! The tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers cuts through the richness of the fried chicken beautifully. You can make them easily by soaking sliced cucumbers in rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Sweet Potato Fries: If you’re feeling adventurous, serve your chicken with some crunchy sweet potato fries! They add a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the savory chicken.
Fresh Herb Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cilantro, and mint, drizzled with lime juice, is a fantastic way to brighten up the meal. It brings a refreshing and zesty note that complements the chicken wonderfully.

These sides not only enhance the flavors of the Taiwanese Fried Chicken but also make for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. So go ahead and mix and match! Your dinner table will be bursting with color, flavor, and joy. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, if you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because this Taiwanese Fried Chicken is so addictive!), you’ll want to store them properly to keep that amazing crispiness intact. Here’s how I do it:

First, let your fried chicken cool down to room temperature. This is important because putting hot chicken straight into the fridge can create moisture, making it soggy. Once cooled, place the pieces in an airtight container lined with paper towels. The paper towels will help absorb any excess moisture, keeping your chicken nice and crispy!

Seal the container tightly and pop it in the fridge. Your leftover Taiwanese Fried Chicken should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you’ll want to reheat them in a way that brings back that glorious crunch. The best method is to use an oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Microwaving is not recommended if you want to keep that crispy texture—trust me, it just doesn’t do it justice! So, stick to the oven or air fryer for the best reheating results.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll enjoy your Taiwanese Fried Chicken just as much the second time around. Happy eating!

What do you think?

Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!

Taiwanese Fried Chicken: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It

Mia

Ingredients List