Are you a fan of those delicious, crispy chicken fingers from your favorite Chinese takeout? Now, you can make these tasty bites right in your own kitchen! This recipe will guide you through creating Chinese chicken fingers that are golden, crunchy and perfect for any occasion.
Using fresh ingredients and a few simple techniques, you’ll be serving up an authentic, restaurant-style snack that’s sure to impress.
Why Homemade Chinese Chicken Fingers?
Store-bought chicken fingers might be convenient, but nothing beats the flavor of homemade. By making these yourself, you have full control over the ingredients, making it possible to craft the crispiest, tastiest Chinese chicken fingers without any preservatives. Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding experience to recreate a classic dish from scratch.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chinese Chicken Fingers
The secret to perfect Chinese chicken fingers is in the ingredients and the batter. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Chicken and Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch – for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1 cup cold water – adjust as needed for consistency
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil – for deep frying
For Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger – finely grated
Step-by-Step: How to Make Chinese Chicken Fingers?
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
To start, slice the chicken breasts into strips, aiming for pieces that are about the same thickness to ensure even cooking. In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and white pepper. Toss the chicken strips in the marinade and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This short marinade time helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with rich flavor.
Step 2: Make the Batter
While the chicken marinates, it’s time to make the batter. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water, then pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until smooth; the batter should be thick enough to coat the chicken without dripping off too much. Adjust with water or flour if needed.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
For optimal crispiness, use a heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer. Fill it with vegetable oil, leaving enough space to avoid overflow when the chicken is added. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C); this temperature ensures a quick cook without leaving the chicken greasy.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Carefully place the battered chicken strips into the hot oil, frying a few at a time. Avoid overcrowding, as this will lower the oil’s temperature and affect crispiness. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Tips for Achieving the Best Crispy Chinese Chicken Fingers
- Cold Batter: Using cold water in the batter helps create an airy, light coating.
- Proper Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked. Too cold, and the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Batter Thickness: Adjust the batter’s consistency so it clings to the chicken without dripping excessively.
Make the Dipping Sauce
For the perfect pairing, a flavorful dipping sauce adds the finishing touch. In a small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar and grated ginger. Stir well and serve alongside your golden, crispy chicken fingers. The sweetness of the hoisin complements the savory chicken, while the sesame oil and ginger provide an aromatic kick.
Serving Suggestions for Chinese Chicken Fingers
Chinese chicken fingers are versatile; they’re great as an appetizer, a party snack, or even as part of a full meal. Serve them with sides like steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. For added flair, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Conclusion: A Takeout Favorite You’ll Love Making at Home
With this easy Chinese chicken fingers recipe, you can bring the taste of your favorite takeout into your own kitchen. This recipe is not only delicious but also fun to make, giving you that golden, crispy finish you crave. So, next time you’re in the mood for something crispy and flavorful, skip the takeout and whip up a batch of these homemade Chinese chicken fingers. They’re sure to become a family favorite!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat, which can add a bit of extra flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to slice them evenly.
Q2: What other dipping sauces pair well with Chinese chicken fingers?
Sweet and sour sauce, spicy mayo, or even a simple soy-based dipping sauce works wonderfully with these chicken fingers.
Q3: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to retain crispiness.
Q4: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free.
Q5: What’s the best way to keep the chicken fingers crispy if making in advance?
Place them on a wire rack in a warm oven (about 200°F) while frying the rest to keep them crispy until serving.
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