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Easy Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls Recipe

Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls with a light, airy batter and classic sweet and sour sauce. Perfectly golden, crunchy, and easy to recreate at home for restaurant-quality results.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 2 cups neutral oil for frying
Sweet & Sour Sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Method
 

  1. In a saucepan, combine all sweet and sour sauce ingredients. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  3. Gradually whisk in cold water to form a thick batter.
  4. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep pan.
  5. Dip chicken pieces into batter and fry in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
  6. Drain on a wire rack.
  7. Serve hot with sweet and sour sauce on the side.

Notes

Keep oil temperature consistent at 375°F and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.