Some dishes are more than just food—they’re a performance, a burst of flavor that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Dragon Chicken is one such dish. Known for its bold, spicy, and slightly sweet character, this Indo-Chinese favorite has become a beloved part of many dinner tables, especially in households that enjoy a bit of heat and drama on their plates.

I still remember the first time I tasted Dragon Chicken at a friend’s Diwali celebration. The aroma of garlic and soy sauce sizzling in the pan filled the air long before the dish reached the table. When it finally did, glistening with a deep red sauce and garnished with crunchy fried cashews, it was devoured within minutes. Since then, Dragon Chicken has been a go-to recipe for family get-togethers, Friday night dinners, and those days when I crave a spicy comfort dish with a fusion flair.

Rooted in Indian-Chinese cuisine—a culinary bridge between two rich food cultures—Dragon Chicken combines the texture of crispy fried chicken with a fiery sauce that’s balanced by sweet and tangy notes. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies spice lovers while still offering enough complexity to appeal to broader palates.

Let’s dive into this sizzling recipe and bring the dragon to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bursting with spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors
• Quick to make and perfect for weeknight meals or party appetizers
• A fun and satisfying way to enjoy restaurant-style Indo-Chinese food at home

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500 g boneless chicken (cut into thin strips)
• 2 tbsp cornflour
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
• 1 tbsp finely chopped ginger
• 2-3 dry red chilies (broken)
• 1 medium onion (sliced)
• 1/2 green bell pepper (sliced)
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp chili sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup water

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fried cashews (optional but recommended)
• Chopped spring onions

HOW TO MAKE DRAGON CHICKEN:

This Dragon Chicken recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Follow these steps to enjoy a homemade dish that tastes just like your favorite Indo-Chinese restaurant.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken strips with cornflour, all-purpose flour, egg, soy sauce, ginger garlic paste, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a deep pan or wok. Fry the marinated chicken strips in batches over medium-high heat until golden and crispy. Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add chopped garlic, ginger, and dry red chilies. Sauté until fragrant. Toss in the sliced onions and green bell peppers and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 4: Add the Flavors
Stir in the tomato ketchup, chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and a bit of salt. Mix well. Add water to adjust the consistency. Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Bring in the Dragon
Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss well until each piece is coated with that rich, glossy sauce. Cook for another minute on medium heat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with fried cashews and spring onions. Serve hot as an appetizer or pair with fried rice or noodles for a full meal.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Cut the chicken into even strips so they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
• Adjust the number of chilies based on your heat preference.
• For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken.
• Adding fried cashews adds an irresistible crunch—don’t skip them if you can help it.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and hot sauce.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings
• Category: Appetizer / Main
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Indo-Chinese
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

NOTES:

You can substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian twist. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the chili sauce or use sweet chili sauce for a milder version.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 350–400
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 900mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I make Dragon Chicken ahead of time?
You can fry the chicken and prep the sauce in advance. Combine and heat just before serving for the best texture.

Is Dragon Chicken very spicy?
It’s moderately spicy. You can adjust the heat by controlling the chili sauce and red chilies.

Can I air fry the chicken instead of deep-frying?
Yes, air frying at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes will give you a healthier version with decent crispiness.

What should I serve with Dragon Chicken?
It pairs beautifully with fried rice, Hakka noodles, or even steamed jasmine rice.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove or in a microwave. It’s best enjoyed fresh as the chicken can lose its crispiness.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Juicy BBQ Chicken (Grilled to Perfection)
• Chicken Teriyaki Pineapple Bowls
• Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
• Caribbean Jerk Chicken and Rice

CONCLUSION:

Dragon Chicken isn’t just another chicken recipe—it’s a statement dish that brings flavor, flair, and fun to your table. Whether you’re making it for a festive gathering or just a cozy Friday night dinner, this recipe will never fail to impress. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a frequent flyer in your weekly meal plans.

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