Print

Savory Dragon Chicken Recipe Easy Fiery Flavor Explosion to Try Today

savory dragon chicken recipe - featured image

A bold and spicy chicken dish featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a crispy cornstarch crust and tossed in a smoky, fiery sauce with layers of heat and flavor. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners and spice lovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken broth or water
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
  • Steamed jasmine or basmati rice (to serve alongside)

Instructions

  1. Toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. Set aside for 10 minutes to let the coating settle.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, rice vinegar, and chicken broth. Taste and adjust for a balanced spicy, sweet, and tangy flavor.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding the pan.
  4. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
  5. Lower the heat to medium, pour the sauce over the chicken, and stir well to coat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the chicken.
  6. Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

Notes

If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep chicken crispy. Adjust chili garlic sauce to control heat level. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. For vegan, replace chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: savory dragon chicken, spicy chicken recipe, fiery chicken, quick chicken dinner, chicken thighs recipe, chili garlic sauce chicken, easy weeknight dinner