Easy Fried Chinese Chicken Balls

Name: Easy Fried Chinese Chicken Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 500 g chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp white pepper; 1 cup water (cold); 1 litre vegetable oil (for frying)

40 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Crispy and juicy, these easy fried Chinese chicken balls are perfect for any occasion. Discover a simple recipe that brings the taste of your favourite Chinese takeout to your kitchen.

Prep

20 min

Cook

20 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Fried Chinese chicken balls are a popular staple in Chinese cuisine, often enjoyed as an appetizer or a main dish. They feature a golden, crispy coating with a tender and juicy chicken centre. This recipe offers a straightforward approach to making these delightful bites right in your home kitchen. Our version simplifies the process without sacrificing the authentic flavours you love. Whether you're hosting a party or craving some homemade Chinese food, these chicken balls are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks, this recipe is designed to deliver the same delicious results you'd find in your favourite takeout, but with the satisfaction of making it yourself.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Mix dry ingredients

In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper.

Pro tip: Sift the dry ingredients for a smoother batter.

Make the batter

Gradually add cold water to the dry mix, stirring until smooth and lump-free.

Pro tip: The batter should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Heat the oil

In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).

Pro tip: Use a kitchen thermometer to accurately monitor oil temperature.

Coat the chicken

Dip chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.

Pro tip: Shake off excess batter before frying.

Fry the chicken balls

Carefully drop coated chicken into hot oil. Fry in batches for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Pro tip: Don't overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.

Drain excess oil

Remove chicken balls with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a wire rack.

Pro tip: A wire rack prevents the chicken from becoming soggy.

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Tips & Tricks

Make sure your oil is hot enough for proper frying; a kitchen thermometer is handy.
Use a wire rack for draining fried chicken balls to prevent sogginess.
Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make easy fried Chinese chicken balls?

Coat chicken pieces in a batter made of flour, cornstarch, and spices, then fry in hot oil until golden.

What is the best oil for frying Chinese chicken balls?

Vegetable oil is ideal due to its neutral flavour and high smoke point.

How long do you fry Chinese chicken balls?

Fry for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Can you freeze Chinese chicken balls?

Yes, freeze them before frying. Cook from frozen, extending the frying time slightly.

What should I serve with Chinese chicken balls?

Serve with sweet and sour sauce or plum sauce, alongside rice or noodles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these easy fried Chinese chicken balls with a side of sweet and sour sauce or plum sauce for dipping. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. To make ahead, prepare the chicken balls and freeze them before frying. When ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.