Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken: A Spicy, Flavorful Island-Inspired Feast

When it comes to cooking, there’s something truly special about finding a recipe that is both simple and packed with bold flavors. Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken is one such dish—an exciting, island-inspired feast that brings together the irresistible crunch of fried chicken, the umami-rich soy garlic sauce, and a spicy kick from fried jalapeños. I first stumbled upon a variation of this recipe at a Hawaiian takeout restaurant, and I knew right away I had to try my hand at recreating it. After a few rounds of testing and tweaking, I finally perfected this recipe that combines crispy golden chicken with a zesty garlic sauce, all while keeping the cooking process simple enough for beginner cooks to enjoy.

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What makes this Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken a great option for beginner cooks is its straightforward preparation, minimal ingredients, and the ability to tailor the spice level to your preference. Whether you’re craving something flavorful for dinner or looking for a dish to serve at a gathering, this recipe has got you covered. The mix of crispy chicken, savory garlic sauce, and optional spicy jalapeños makes it an exciting meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, you’ll get a taste of Hawaiian cuisine without needing any special ingredients or equipment.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process of making Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken, from preparation to serving suggestions. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started, you’ll find helpful tips and tricks to make sure everything turns out perfectly. So let’s dive in and make this irresistible dish together!

Ingredients and Preparation

For this recipe, you’ll need a handful of easily accessible ingredients that pack a punch in terms of flavor. From crispy chicken to the bold soy garlic sauce, each component works together to create a dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Chicken and Seasoning

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The chicken thighs are the perfect cut for this recipe because they are tender, juicy, and hold up well when fried. The slightly higher fat content ensures the chicken remains moist inside while the coating crisps up nicely on the outside. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them, but the end result might be a little less juicy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt helps season the chicken and bring out the natural flavors. It also enhances the taste of the soy garlic sauce that’s later added.
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice that complements the other flavors in the dish.

Coating for Chicken

• 1/2 cup flour: The flour helps create the crunchy coating for the fried chicken, ensuring that it crisps up to perfection.
• 1/4 cup cornstarch: Cornstarch is key to achieving an extra crispy texture. It helps to form a delicate, crisp crust that’s light and flaky.
• Oil for frying: Use vegetable or canola oil for frying. These oils are neutral in flavor and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for frying. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the chicken and fry it evenly.

Soy Garlic Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Soy sauce adds the signature salty umami flavor that is common in many Asian-inspired dishes. It’s essential for the depth of flavor in this recipe.
• 1/4 cup sugar: The sugar balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, giving the sauce a sweet-savory profile that enhances the overall taste.
• 3 tablespoons water: Water helps thin the sauce, making it easier to coat the chicken evenly. It also ensures the sauce isn’t too thick or overwhelming.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Ground ginger brings a subtle warmth and spiciness to the sauce that complements the garlic and soy sauce beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced: Garlic is the star ingredient in the sauce, adding a rich and aromatic flavor that ties everything together.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• 1 jalapeño, sliced: The addition of jalapeños introduces a spicy kick that brings a vibrant heat to the dish. If you prefer a milder version, you can skip the jalapeños, or remove the seeds to reduce the spice level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Ingredients

Start by cutting the boneless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. This makes the chicken easy to fry and allows for more surface area to absorb the delicious soy garlic sauce. Season the chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.

If you’re opting for the optional jalapeños, slice them into ¼-inch thick rings. Removing the seeds will reduce the heat if you prefer a milder spice, but leaving the seeds will result in a more fiery dish.

2. Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. This dry mixture will create the crispy coating for your chicken. Once the coating is ready, dip each piece of chicken into the mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. Set aside the coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray while you prepare to fry them.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, so fry the chicken in batches. Fry each batch for 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Fry the Jalapeños

Once the chicken is done, add the sliced jalapeños to the hot oil. Fry them for about 30 seconds, or until they become crisp. Remove them from the oil and set aside on a paper towel to drain.

5. Prepare the Soy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is frying, prepare the soy garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the soy sauce, sugar, water, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sauce comes to a boil, turn off the heat and set the pan aside.

6. Coat the Chicken with Sauce

Once all the chicken is fried, place the crispy chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the hot soy garlic sauce over the chicken and toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Be sure to toss the chicken gently so the crispy coating remains intact.

7. Add the Fried Jalapeños

For an added layer of heat, toss the fried jalapeños into the chicken and sauce mixture. Mix everything together, ensuring the jalapeños are distributed evenly throughout the dish. The spicy jalapeños will enhance the flavor of the chicken and add a touch of heat to every bite.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken immediately while it’s hot and crispy. The chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be served with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish the dish with extra jalapeños and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired.

Beginner Tips and Notes

1. Frying Tips

For perfect fried chicken, it’s essential to monitor the temperature of the oil. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is fully cooked. A temperature of 350°F (175°C) is ideal for frying chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it turns golden brown in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready.

2. Checking for Doneness

To ensure your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, simply cut a piece open—there should be no pink in the center, and the juices should run clear.

3. Adjusting Spice Levels

If you’re not a fan of spicy food, feel free to omit the jalapeños or use a milder pepper. Removing the seeds from the jalapeños will also tone down the heat. If you enjoy extra spice, consider adding more jalapeños or using a hotter pepper variety like serrano or Thai bird’s eye chili.

4. Alternative Coating

If you’re out of cornstarch, you can use potato starch or rice flour instead. Both alternatives will provide a similar crispy texture. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Serve with Steamed Rice: The soft, fluffy rice helps balance the crispy chicken and savory sauce, soaking up the delicious flavors.
• Side Vegetables: Lightly sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas provide a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich chicken.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish, complementing the richness of the chicken and sauce.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce or tangy vinegar-based dipping sauce to add another layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken is a flavorful, exciting dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a savory, sweet soy garlic sauce and a spicy kick from fried jalapeños. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious Hawaiian-inspired meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. The simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and bold flavors make this dish a true standout. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and you’ll soon find yourself making it over and over again!