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–+ servings
Firecracker Chicken

Firecracker Chicken: Sweet, Spicy, and Better Than Takeout

This Firecracker Chicken balances sweet and spicy flavors, providing a satisfying takeout alternative.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Frank's Red Hot Essential for the spicy kick
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar Substitute with light brown sugar for a milder flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Offers savory notes without needing fresh garlic
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Opt for Tamari for a gluten-free option
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs Preferred for tenderness
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for seasoning
  • 1/2 cup corn starch Creates the crispy coating
  • 1/2 cup olive oil or neutral-flavored oil Can use avocado or canola oil as alternatives
For Garnish
  • to taste chopped scallions Adds color and mild onion flavor
  • as needed cooked white rice Optional, perfect for soaking up sauce

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • deep-sided skillet
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Combine the sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sprinkle corn starch over them ensuring each piece is coated.
  4. Heat olive oil in a deep-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs in a single layer and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet and toss gently to coat.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes.
  7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot with cooked white rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat in the oven.

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