This Easy Copycat Sweet Fire Chicken is a tasty treat! With crispy chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, it’s a dish that pleases everyone at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work great here. I often choose thighs for a juicier bite, but either will do! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
Flour & Cornstarch: All-purpose flour helps create a nice crispy coating alongside cornstarch. If you need gluten-free options, you can swap these for gluten-free flour blends—just check the ratios on your package.
Pineapple: Canned pineapple is super convenient, but fresh pineapple gives a brighter flavor! If you don’t have either, try using another fruit like mango for sweetness.
Sauce Ingredients: Ketchup and honey are what give this dish its sweet base. You can use BBQ sauce for a different flavor or maple syrup if you’re looking for a vegan substitute.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Getting that crunchy exterior is key for this recipe! You’ll want to ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Here’s a quick guide:
- Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C) for frying. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of batter in; if it sizzles and rises, it’s ready.
- Breading is essential! After dipping the chicken in egg, make sure to coat it evenly with the flour mixture so it sticks well when frying.
- Fry in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it will lower the oil temperature and make the chicken soggy. Fry in small groups for the best results!
With these tips, your Sweet Fire Chicken will turn out crispy and delicious every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Copycat Sweet Fire Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups cooked white rice
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha or other hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Copycat Sweet Fire Chicken recipe takes about 25 minutes of prep and cooking time. Depending on how quickly you coat the chicken, you should have this meal ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick dinner on busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by whisking the eggs in a bowl until smooth. In another bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This will be your coating for the chicken.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly. This step is what will give your chicken that fantastic crispy texture!
3. Fry the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the oil. Fry the chicken in batches for about 4-5 minutes per batch or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Make the Sauce:
While the chicken is frying, in a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, honey, vinegar, soy sauce, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing all the flavors to blend together beautifully.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue cooking for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens beautifully. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.
6. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a wok or large skillet, heat a small drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes or until they are tender-crisp.
7. Combine Everything:
Add the pineapple chunks and the fried chicken pieces to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
8. Serve:
Serve your delicious Sweet Fire Chicken hot over a bed of cooked white rice. Enjoy the sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors!
Bon appétit! This flavorful dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces just like the breasts for even cooking.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend. Many brands offer a one-to-one replacement mix that works well for frying.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Sweet Fire Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. If you find the sauce has thickened too much, just add a splash of water while reheating to loosen it up!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it on the stove before tossing it with the chicken and vegetables when you’re ready to serve.
