Firecracker Chicken

This is a very typical sticky chicken dish that I make as a midweek meal. One that doesn’t require fancy techniques – just crispy chicken and a killer sauce. Use chicken thighs or breasts, whatever protein is lying around. And this Firecracker Sauce, my sweet-spicy secret weapon. It’s a midweek lifesaver. And everyone who tries it agrees!!

Save

Firecracker is the name I have given to this bold, sticky glaze. That’s how fond I am of it – I’ve given it a proper title. Firecracker – as in explosive flavor. Everybody say boom, how fitting!! 😉

You might laugh that I’m this obsessed but you won’t laugh if you try it. It’s becoming FAMOUS!!! It’s now not only one of the all time most requested recipes here, it’s got my whole family fighting over the last crispy pieces!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Firecracker Chicken brings big payoff with familiar ingredients.

Crispy coating: Each bite stays crunchy under the sauce.

Sweet heat balance: Sugar and buffalo sauce mellow each other out.

Simple steps: Everything follows a clear flow without stress.

Takeout feel: It tastes like a favorite restaurant dish at home.

Crowd appeal: Plates empty quickly every single time.

Save

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
• Salt
• Black peppe
• ¾ cup cornstarch
• 3 eggs, whisked
• 1 cup vegetable oil, plus more if needed

For the Sauce:

• ¾ cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder, optional
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Save

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

The chicken should be cut into bite sized pieces. Salt and pepper should be sprinkled lightly over all sides. This first layer builds flavor before frying begins.

2. Set Up the Coating Station

Cornstarch should be placed in one bowl. Whisked eggs should be placed in another bowl. Each piece of chicken should be dipped into cornstarch, then egg, then back into cornstarch. This double coat helps create that crisp shell.

3. Heat the Oil

Vegetable oil should be heated in a deep pan over medium heat. The oil should look shimmering but not smoking. A small test piece should sizzle gently when added.

4. Fry the Chicken

Chicken pieces should be added in batches. Crowding should be avoided so the coating stays crisp. Each batch should cook until golden and firm, about four to five minutes. Cooked chicken should rest on paper towels.

5. Make the Sauce

Buffalo sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, chili powder, mustard powder, salt, melted butter, and soy sauce should be added to a saucepan. The mixture should be heated over medium heat until smooth and slightly thick.

6. Combine Everything

Fried chicken should be added into the sauce. Everything should be gently stirred until fully coated. The heat should stay low so the glaze thickens without burning.

Tips & Variations

• Smaller chicken pieces cook more evenly.
• Extra heat can be added with more chili powder.
• Sauce thickens more as it cools.
• Chicken stays crisp longer when added to sauce just before serving.
• Leftovers reheat best in a skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Firecracker Chicken pairs well with simple sides. Steamed rice helps balance the heat. Noodles work nicely for soaking up sauce. At home, this dish often lands next to roasted vegetables or a crisp slaw. For gatherings, toothpicks turn it into an easy party bite that disappears fast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this be baked instead of fried?

Frying gives the best texture though baking works with less crispness.

Is the sauce very spicy?

Heat stays balanced with sweetness.

Can thighs be used?

Yes, boneless thighs cook well here.

Does the sauce thicken on its own?

Yes, sugar helps it tighten naturally.

How long do leftovers last?

They keep well for two to three days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Firecracker Chicken brings bold flavor, sticky sauce, and satisfying crunch together in one dish. The balance of sweet and heat keeps it exciting without overwhelming. This recipe fits casual dinners, game nights, busy weekends. Every bite feels indulgent and fun, making it one of those meals that gets requested again fast.