After a long day filled with the usual hustle and bustle, I often crave something crispy yet comforting that can bring a smile to my face. That’s when the idea of making crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce comes to mind. The mere thought of these golden delights sizzling in hot oil fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone home.
These chicken balls are not just a quick fix—they’re a scrumptious blend of tender chicken and a crunchy batter that transforms any gathering into a joyful feast. Whether I’m hosting friends for game night or just treating myself on a quiet evening, the tangy sweet and sour sauce brings the whole dish together, making it a crowd favorite every time.
Join me as I share my go-to recipe for these delightful bites, complete with options to spice things up or keep it classic. Let’s bring a touch of restaurant-style magic right into your kitchen!
Why are Chinese Chicken Balls so beloved?
Crunchy Perfection: These Chinese Chicken Balls offer an amazing crunch that guarantees satisfaction with every bite.
Quick and Easy: The straightforward steps make this dish achievable even for novice cooks.
Versatile Options: Switch it up with variations like spicy or baked for a tailored experience.
Family-Friendly: This dish is a sure hit with kids and adults alike—perfect for gatherings!
Lightly sauced: The tangy sweet and sour sauce adds the ideal finishing touch, balancing flavors wonderfully.
Explore more quick recipes for busy weeknights or fun gatherings; you’ll be glad you did!
Chinese Chicken Balls Ingredients
Dive into the delightful world of homemade flavors with this recipe!
For the Chicken Balls
- Chicken Breasts/Thighs – The main protein source; for lower fat, opt for chicken breast.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the batter; can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
- Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a light and crispy batter; no substitutions recommended.
- Baking Powder – Helps the batter puff up perfectly while frying.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness; reduce for a less sweet taste.
- Salt – Enhances flavors beautifully.
- Cold Water – Activates the batter; make sure it’s ice-cold for optimal texture.
- Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; healthier oils like avocado or coconut oil can also work well.
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Ketchup – The base of the sweet and sour sauce, providing tanginess and sweetness.
- Vinegar – Adds that crucial acidity to the sauce.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens up the sauce and elevates the flavors.
- Additional Water – Helps achieve the desired consistency of the sauce.
- Cornstarch (for sauce) – Thickens the sauce to the perfect texture.
- Salt (for sauce) – Balances the flavors in the sauce.
With this gathering of ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from making unforgettable Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce that your loved ones will ask for again and again!
How to Make Chinese Chicken Balls
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Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Gradually pour in the ice-cold water, mixing until you get a smooth, lump-free batter that is ready to cling to the chicken.
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Coat Chicken: Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Dip each piece into the batter, making sure it is thoroughly coated, and allow any excess batter to drip off.
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Heat Oil: In a deep frying pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy. This ensures that the chicken balls will fry up golden and crispy without becoming soggy.
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Fry Chicken: Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and float to the top. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
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Make Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, fresh lemon juice, additional water, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until smooth, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
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Serve: Arrange your crispy chicken balls on a plate and drizzle with the sweet and sour sauce or serve it on the side. Enjoy them hot, fresh out of the fryer!
Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chinese Chicken Balls Variations
Feel free to customize these delightful bites to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
- Spicy Chicken Balls: Add chili powder or a splash of Sriracha to the batter for an exciting kick. Ideal for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals!
- Garlic and Ginger Chicken Balls: Mix in minced garlic and ginger to impart aromatic depth to the batter, making each crunch burst with flavor.
- Sesame Chicken Balls: Coat the chicken balls in sesame seeds before frying for a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet and sour sauce.
- Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the chicken balls at 400°F (204°C) until golden and crispy—enjoy the same flavors without the extra oil!
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a gluten-free blend to make this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
- Herb-Infused Chicken Balls: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the batter for a colorful twist, adding both flavor and vibrancy to the dish.
- Coconut Chicken Balls: Mix desiccated coconut into the batter for a tropical twist that adds sweetness and a chewy texture, perfect for fun dinners!
- Honey Garlic Sauce: Swap the sweet and sour sauce for a honey garlic glaze for a sweet, sticky alternative that complements the chicken perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken Balls
Fridge: Store leftover Chinese Chicken Balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for maximum crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen chicken balls, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This ensures they stay crispy.
Wrap Wisely: If you’re stacking them for storage, make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce are ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the batter and coat the chicken pieces up to 24 hours in advance, just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain quality. The sweet and sour sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your chicken balls, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the coated chicken for just 3-4 minutes until golden. This way, you’ll save precious time while still serving a dish that’s just as delicious and satisfying!
Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken Balls
- Use Ice-Cold Water: Adding cold or ice-cold water to the batter is essential for creating a super crispy coating that enhances your Chinese Chicken Balls.
- Dry Chicken Thoroughly: Always pat chicken pieces dry before battering. This helps the batter stick better, preventing sogginess during frying.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy chicken balls. Use a thermometer for accurate readings.
- Small Batches Fry: Fry chicken in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent, ensuring all balls cook evenly without becoming oily.
- Consider Double Frying: For an extra crunch, fry the balls briefly at a higher temperature after the initial fry; this technique gives your chicken balls a delightful texture.
What to Serve with Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that create a harmonious full meal around these crispy chicken bites.
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Fried Rice: The savory and slightly oily flavors of fried rice complement the crispy chicken beautifully, making for a satisfying combo.
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Steamed Vegetables: Crisp, lightly seasoned steamed veggies provide a fresh crunch that balances the savory richness of the chicken.
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Egg Drop Soup: This silky, warm soup offers a comforting start to your meal and pairs wonderfully with the sweet and sour notes of the chicken.
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Spring Rolls: Crispy, veggie-filled spring rolls provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, enhancing the Asian-inspired dining experience.
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Coconut Rice: Its creamy sweetness perfectly counteracts the tangy sauce, giving you that perfect blend of flavors in each bite.
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Chili Garlic Noodles: Spicy, garlicky noodles bring a kick that complements the sweet and sour chicken delightfully while providing a satisfying carb element.
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Chinese Cabbage Salad: A crunchy and refreshing salad with a sesame dressing can brighten up your plate and cleanse the palate.
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Chardonnay or Riesling: These crisp wines pair beautifully with the flavors of the chicken and the sauce, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to your meal.
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Mango Sticky Rice: This delightful dessert offers a sweet and creamy finish to your meal, balancing the savory aspects of the main dish.
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Lychee Martini: A fruity martini blends perfectly, bringing a sweet and exotic touch to your dining experience with the chicken.
Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken for this recipe?
The best chicken for Chinese Chicken Balls is fresh, with a firm texture and no dark spots or unpleasant odors. Choose skinless chicken breasts or thighs for juiciness. For a healthier option, you can go for lean chicken breasts.
How should I store leftovers of Chinese Chicken Balls?
Store any leftover Chinese Chicken Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To revitalize their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
Can I freeze Chinese Chicken Balls? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chinese Chicken Balls, first, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
What if my batter isn’t sticking to the chicken?
No worries! If your batter isn’t sticking, it might be because the chicken pieces are too wet. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before dipping them into the batter. Additionally, ensure that your batter is thick enough to cling; you may need to adjust the amounts of flour and cornstarch.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version of these Chinese Chicken Balls! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and cornstarch for the batter to achieve a similar texture and flavor without the gluten.
Are Chinese Chicken Balls safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid feeding your pets Chinese Chicken Balls due to the potential harm from deep frying oils and seasonings like garlic and onion, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always consult your vet before introducing any human food to your pet’s diet.
Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with Sweet and Sour Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Gradually pour in the ice-cold water, mixing until you get a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Dip each piece into the batter, making sure it is thoroughly coated, and allow any excess to drip off.
- In a deep frying pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and floating. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, lemon juice, additional water, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until smooth and cook until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Arrange crispy chicken balls on a plate and drizzle with the sweet and sour sauce or serve on the side.