Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight
👨‍🍳 Professional Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight during my travels in Thailand, where the street vendors served the most delicious versions. I spent years perfecting the recipe to bring the authentic taste to my kitchen. Each time I make this dish, it reminds me of the vibrant culture and flavors of Thailand. It's a recipe that my family and friends always request during gatherings."

Chef Mitchell has a deep passion for Thai cuisine, having studied in Thailand and worked in various Thai restaurants. His expertise in balancing flavors and textures shines through in this Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight. With over a decade of experience, he brings authentic Thai recipes to home cooks everywhere.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
A plate of Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight garnished with cilantro and lime wedges, showcasing its golden-brown crispy texture.

Why This Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight Recipe Works

This recipe is unique due to its blend of Thai spices that penetrate the chicken, creating a flavor explosion. The use of both flour and cornstarch in the coating ensures a super crispy texture that doesn't get soggy. Additionally, the coconut milk adds richness, enhancing the chicken's flavor. It's the perfect combination of crunch and moisture that makes each bite unforgettable.

The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet, thanks to the curry and paprika. The frying method used provides a unique crispiness, while the coconut milk adds depth and moisture. This dish not only looks appealing but also offers a satisfying crunch that pairs excellently with tangy lime and fresh herbs.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest chicken, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken pieces. You can test this by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coating in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Fry the chicken just before serving to maintain its crispiness for the best results.

You can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or buttermilk for a rich flavor. For a lighter option, use almond milk or soy milk, but the taste will vary slightly.

Frying in a skillet is the best method, as it allows for even cooking and crispy texture. You can also use an air fryer for a healthier option, but it may not achieve the same level of crunch.

To prevent soggy fried chicken, make sure to dry the chicken pieces well before coating them. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy pieces.

The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The coating should be crispy to the touch, and juices should run clear when pierced.

Serve this dish with a side of jasmine rice and a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces like sweet chili or peanut sauce.

Yes, you can add chili powder or chopped fresh chilies to the coating mixture for added heat. Adjust according to your spice preference to get the perfect kick.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to restore crispiness.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Chicken Not Crispy

Problem: If your chicken turns out soggy instead of crispy, it may be due to excess moisture.

Solution: Make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating and avoid adding too much chicken to the skillet at once, which can lower the temperature of the oil.

✅

Batter Not Sticking

Problem: Sometimes the coating may not adhere well to the chicken.

Solution: Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the egg mixture before dredging in flour and cornstarch; a thorough coating will help the batter stick better.

✅

Burnt Coating

Problem: If the coating burns before the chicken cooks through, it's likely the oil temperature is too high.

Prevention: Lower the heat and allow the oil to stabilize before frying. Adjust the cooking temperature as necessary to ensure even cooking.

✅

Uneven Cooking

Problem: Chicken pieces may cook unevenly if they are not of uniform size.

Recovery: Cut chicken into similarly sized pieces to ensure even cooking, and always fry in batches to maintain consistent heat in the oil.

✅

Chicken Dry Inside

Problem: Overcooking can lead to dry chicken inside.

Prevention: Monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness without overcooking.

✅

Flavor Balance Issues

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, serve with a side of unsalted rice to help absorb some of the saltiness.

Bland: If the chicken is bland, consider marinating the chicken in a blend of spices and coconut milk for a few hours before frying.

An arranged display of ingredients for Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight, showcasing vibrant spices and fresh chicken.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight

Selecting quality chicken is crucial; choose fresh, organic chicken breast for the best flavor and tenderness. The spices should be fresh and aromatic to enhance the dish, while using high-quality coconut milk will provide a rich taste. Additionally, make sure to use good-quality flour and cornstarch for a perfect coating.

For preparation, ensure that the chicken is dried properly to allow the coating to adhere. Measure spices accurately to balance the flavors, and always use room temperature eggs and coconut milk for better mixing. Properly mix the coating ingredients can enhance the crispiness of the fried chicken.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Opt for organic chicken breast for a juicier and more flavorful result. Always look for chicken that is firm and has a pinkish hue.
  • Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds a rich flavor and moisture to the chicken. Choose full-fat coconut milk for the best results.
  • Spices: Fresh spices elevate the flavor of the dish. Check the expiration date on your spices to ensure maximum aroma and taste.
A chef frying chicken pieces in a skillet, showcasing the golden brown color of Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The key to achieving the perfect crispy texture lies in the frying technique. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken to ensure a golden crust. Frying in batches prevents overcrowding and maintains the oil temperature.

Keep a close eye on the chicken as it cooks; timing is crucial for doneness. The visual cues of golden brown color and a bubbling oil surface indicate that the chicken is frying properly. Using a thermometer can help achieve consistent results.

The Secret to Perfect Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight

The secret lies in the double-coating method: first in the egg and then in the flour mixture. This ensures a thick, crunchy crust that holds up well during frying, providing the ultimate crispy experience.

Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Delight

Prep 30 min
Cook 20 min
Serves 4-6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
    Adds umami flavor
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
    Balances the savory taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
    Adds brightness and acidity
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
    A sweet and spicy complement
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
    For a spicy kick

Main

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
    Cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
    Helps achieve extra crispiness
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
    Adds unique flavor
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
    Gives color and flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    Enhances overall flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    Adds subtle heat
  • 3 eggs
    For binding the coating
  • 1 cup coconut milk
    Adds richness
  • Vegetable oil for frying
    Essential for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken

    Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. Mix the Coating

    In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, curry powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Whisk the Eggs and Coconut Milk

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and coconut milk until well combined.

  4. Coat the Chicken

    Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.

  5. Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  6. Fry the Chicken

    Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.

  7. Cook Until Golden

    Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

  8. Drain and Serve

    Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with lime wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the chicken and the coating mixture in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Fry the chicken when you're ready to serve for optimal crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of jasmine rice and a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced meal. Pair with sweet chili sauce for dipping for an extra flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize by adding spices like cayenne for heat or using different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a different twist.