Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, or 台灣香雞排, is a must-try street food classic that delivers bold flavors with a crispy, golden-brown coating.
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken (台灣香雞排) – Crispy & Flavorful Night Market Favorite
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, or 台灣香雞排, is a must-try street food classic that delivers bold flavors with a crispy, golden-brown coating. Popular in Taiwan’s bustling night markets, this dish is known for its tender, juicy chicken bites infused with aromatic five-spice and basil. Whether you’re craving a snack, a party appetizer, or a satisfying meal, this easy homemade Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken recipe will bring the authentic taste of Taiwan to your kitchen.
👉 If you love this, you might also enjoy Sesame Oil Chicken Soup – another Taiwanese comfort dish perfect for pairing with fried delights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy Perfection – Achieve that crunchy bite just like in night markets.
✔ Authentic Flavor – Classic Taiwanese seasonings create the perfect taste.
✔ Quick & Easy – Simple steps with minimal prep time.
✔ Great for Sharing – Perfect for gatherings, parties, or a snack anytime
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken (台灣香雞排) – Crispy & Flavorful Night Market Favorite
Ingredients
- For the Chicken
2 boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp rice wine
½ tsp white pepper
½ tsp five-spice powder
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp cornstarch
- For the Coating
½ cup sweet potato starch (or substitute with cornstarch)
1 egg white (for extra crispiness)
- Frying & Garnish
1 ½ cups vegetable oil
Fresh Thai basil leaves (optional)
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, rice wine, white pepper, five-spice powder, garlic powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Coating
- Lightly beat an egg white, then coat the chicken pieces in sweet potato starch for extra crunch.
- Heat the Oil
- In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Chicken
- Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness** Return the chicken to hot oil for another 30 seconds to 1 minute for an ultra-crispy texture.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Toss chicken with extra five-spice powder or chili powder for extra flavor. Enjoy hot!
Pro Tip
- Sweet potato starch is the key to achieving the signature Taiwanese crispy texture. Cornstarch is a substitute but won’t give the same crunch.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair this Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken with Taiwanese Bubble Milk Tea for a true street food experience. You can also serve it with Scallion Pancakes for a delicious Taiwanese meal.
👉 Looking for more? Try Three-Color Chinese Steamed Eggs for a comforting contrast.
