Yen Ching Chicken

about Yen Ching Chicken!

Yen Ching Chicken, also known as Yen Ji Chicken or Ying Ji Chicken, is a popular dish served in Chinese restaurants across the United States. The dish typically features bite-sized pieces of chicken that are coated in a light and crispy batter, then deep-fried to perfection.

The chicken is usually served with a savory brown sauce that is made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and other seasonings. Some variations of the dish may include vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas, added to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Yen Ching Chicken is believed to have originated from the Hunan province of China, where it is known as "tangcu ji" or "sour and spicy chicken." The dish was later adapted and modified in the United States to suit American tastes, resulting in the sweet and savory version that is widely enjoyed today.

To make Yen Ching Chicken at home, you will need the following ingredients:

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and cold water until smooth. Add the chicken pieces and stir until they are fully coated.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken until it is golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels.

3. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

4. To serve, arrange the fried chicken on a platter and drizzle the sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Yen Ching Chicken!