Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast , cut into small slices
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons hot chili pepper flakes
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh garlic , minced
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger , minced
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chopped green onion
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup white vinegar
3 cups vegetable oil
sesame seeds , for garnish
Fireplace Chicken is a popular Shanghai-style dish that is known for its crispy texture and spicy, sweet flavor profile. The name Fireplace Chicken comes from the appearance of the cooked, deep-fried chicken slices, which resemble the hot coals of a fireplace. It is a dish that is often cooked at home for casual family dinners or served in Chinese restaurants as part of a larger fiery meal. The recipe we present here offers a slightly lighter version by reducing the oil used in cooking while still packing a flavorful punch. Two bonuses, this recipe uses less oil which makes it less greasy and we get the crispy texture by coating it with cornstarch instead of heavy breading.

Instructions

1.In a bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until well combined.
2.Add the chicken slices and toss until fully coated in the cornstarch mixture.
3.In a separate bowl, mix the hot chili pepper flakes, minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, chopped green onion, sugar, white vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
4.In a wok or large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over high heat until it reaches 375°F.
5.Add the chicken slices to the hot oil in small batches and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
6.Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken slices from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7.Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the remaining oil from the wok or saucepan and heat over medium-high heat.
8.Add the chili pepper mixture to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
9.Return the chicken to the wok and toss until well coated in the chili pepper mixture.
10.Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.

PROS

The combination of spices and sweet honey gives this chicken recipe a perfect balance of flavors, making it a crowd favorite.

The recipe is easy to prepare and can be prepared in advance for a great family dinner or party.

CONS

This recipe includes deep-frying which may not suit every diet.
It is high in calories and fat, therefore should be consumed in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite being deep-fried, the chicken remains high in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Ginger and garlic, both present in the recipe, are known for supporting a healthy immune system and aiding in digestion.

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