P.F. Chang's spicy chicken is a legendary dish, known for its addictive blend of sweet, savory, and fiery flavors. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, this comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a remarkably similar version at home. We’ll explore the key components and techniques to achieve that signature P.F. Chang’s taste. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
What Makes P.F. Chang's Spicy Chicken Unique?
The magic behind P.F. Chang's spicy chicken lies in a masterful balance of several elements:
- The Marinade: This is the foundation of the dish, infusing the chicken with flavor and tenderizing the meat. It typically features a complex blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a generous kick of chili.
- The Coating: A crucial element that contributes to the satisfying crunch. This often involves a combination of cornstarch, flour, and spices.
- The Sauce: The final touch that elevates the dish to legendary status. It's a vibrant, sweet, and spicy sauce that beautifully complements the crispy chicken.
My Take on P.F. Chang's Spicy Chicken: A Detailed Recipe
This recipe aims to recreate the essence of P.F. Chang's spicy chicken, focusing on replicating those key components. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup water (or more, to achieve desired consistency)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and sriracha. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (longer is better). Add the cornstarch to the marinade and stir to coat the chicken.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Coat and Fry: Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken is frying, whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet or wok and pour the sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware that they tend to dry out more easily. Reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking. Marinating for a longer period is also recommended.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more sriracha or your preferred chili sauce to both the marinade and the sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few finely chopped chili peppers for extra heat.
What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, lo mein noodles, or even a simple green salad.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, but it's best to fry and sauce the chicken just before serving for optimal crispiness. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and reheated.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil are all good choices for frying. Choose an oil with a high smoke point.
By following this recipe and understanding the key elements, you can create a delicious and authentic rendition of P.F. Chang's Spicy Chicken at home. Remember to adjust the spice level to your liking and enjoy the flavorful results!
