Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Start by marinating the chicken pieces. In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating

• While the chicken is marinating, prepare the coating stations. In one bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. This setup will ensure a thorough and even coating on the chicken pieces.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

• Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Take each piece of chicken and coat it first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to adhere. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray, ready for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken until it is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

• In a separate pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Next, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Stir the sauce until it is well-combined and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

• Once the sauce is ready, add the fried chicken pieces to the pan, tossing them to ensure they are evenly coated with the garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Transfer the crispy garlic chicken to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!