Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe

Are you tired of ordering takeout and want to try your hand at making a restaurant-quality Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe? You’re in luck! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these crispy, golden delights in no time.

Chinese Chicken Fingers, often found on the appetizer menus of Chinese-American restaurants, are bite-sized pieces of chicken that have been marinated, coated, and deep-fried to perfection. While not a traditional Chinese dish, they’ve become a cherished part of Chinese-American cuisine.

What makes them particularly appealing?

What makes Chinese Chicken Fingers particularly appealing is their versatility. They can be served in various culinary roles, making them suitable for diverse occasions. Whether offered as an appetizer to kick off a meal, as a delightful snack for gatherings and parties or as a satisfying main course when paired with complementary dishes like fried rice or noodles, these finger foods adapt effortlessly to different dining scenarios.

Ingredients Used In Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe

• Self-rising flour= 1/2 cup
• Chicken breasts (boneless/skinless)= 2
• Canola oil= 1 quart
• Cornstarch= 1/2 cup
• Seltzer water= 1/2 cup
• Salt= 1.5 teaspoons
• Sugar= 1/2 teaspoon

Step By Step Guide for Making the Chinese Chicken Fingers

Step 1

Make a well-combined batter by stirring together the dry ingredients in a large bowl.

Step 2

Mix seltzer and water slowly until well combined. Unlike pancake batter, the batter should be a little thicker. Adjust the consistency by adding more flour or seltzer water if necessary.

Step 3

Chicken should be cut into strips and dunked into the batter, making sure each piece is fully covered.

Step 4

Using a deep fryer that has been preheated, place the chicken in the center and cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Initially, they will look like white chicken fingers, but once they turn brown they will begin to resemble real chicken fingers.

Step 5

Those rich gold colors are what you want! Sweet and sour sauce should be served with the dish as it is served warm.

Variations and Customizations

Variations and Customizations for Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe:

Coating Options: While the classic flour-cornstarch blend is fantastic, you can try panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed nuts like almonds or peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Spice It Up: Add a kick of spice to your chicken fingers by incorporating chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce into the coating mixture. 

Herb-Infused: Elevate the flavor profile by incorporating fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary, or basil into the coating mixture. 

Healthier Alternatives: Opt for a healthier version of the Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe by baking the chicken fingers instead of frying them. You can also use whole wheat flour or almond flour for a more nutritious coating.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options: For non-meat eaters, consider using tofu or tempeh strips as a chicken substitute. A tofu-based marinade can infuse these alternatives with flavor.

Dipping Sauces: Experiment with various dipping sauces beyond the traditional sweet and sour. Try teriyaki sauce, garlic aioli, peanut sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an exciting twist.

These variations and customizations offer endless possibilities for tailoring the Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe to your liking. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Chinese Chicken Fingers the same as Chicken Tenders?

While they share similarities, Chinese Chicken Fingers and Chicken Tenders are not exactly the same. Chicken Tenders are typically larger strips of chicken, while Chinese Chicken Fingers are smaller, bite-sized pieces.

What’s the secret to crispy Chinese Chicken Fingers?

Achieving crispiness involves a well-seasoned coating, proper frying temperature, and adequate draining to remove excess oil. Using seltzer water in the batter can also enhance crispiness.

Can I make a healthier version of Chinese Chicken Fingers?

Yes, you can make healthier Chinese Chicken Fingers by baking them instead of frying them or using alternative coatings like whole wheat flour or almond flour.

What side dishes go well with Chinese Chicken Fingers?

Common sides include fried rice, noodles, or a simple salad. The choice depends on whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or main course.

Are Chinese Chicken Fingers gluten-free?

By using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs, you can make gluten-free Chinese Chicken Fingers. Check the labels of gluten-free products to ensure they are gluten-free.

Concluding Remarks

We hope you love the journey of flavors and textures that Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe brings. From their crispy exterior to the tender chicken inside, these delectable bites offer a delightful combination that’s hard to resist. Throughout this guide, we’ve shared insights into making these beloved treats at home and exploring creative variations to suit your tastes.

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