Crispy & Spicy Chicken Lollipop Recipe
Craving a restaurant-style appetizer at home? Look no further than this Crispy & Spicy Chicken Lollipop Recipe! This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an absolute delight for those who love a crunchy texture with a spicy kick. Whether it’s for a party, game night, or simply a special family dinner, this chicken lollipop will be the highlight of your table.
History of Chicken Lollipop
The Chicken Lollipop is believed to have originated in Indo-Chinese cuisine, where chefs transformed chicken drumettes into a stylish and flavorful dish. Over time, it gained popularity in Indian street food culture and became a must-have appetizer in restaurants. Its combination of crunch, spice, and juicy meat makes it a favorite among food lovers.
What is Chicken Lollipop?
Chicken lollipop is a deep-fried or air-fried chicken appetizer made from chicken wings. The wing bone is frenched (meat pushed to one end) to resemble a lollipop. It is coated with a spicy batter and fried to perfection, giving it a crispy outer layer and juicy inside.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Juicy: Perfectly crunchy exterior with tender meat inside.
- Spicy & Flavorful: Infused with the perfect blend of spices.
- Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Restaurant-Style: Get the same taste as your favorite eatery at home.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, snacks, or a family dinner.
My Personal Experience with This Recipe
I have tried several variations of chicken lollipop, but this version stands out for its balanced spice level, crispiness, and juicy texture. I first made it for a weekend get-together, and it was a massive hit! Since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen for gatherings and celebrations.
Equipment You Will Need
- Sharp knife (for Frenching the chicken)
- Mixing bowls
- Deep frying pan or air fryer
- Tongs
- Paper towels (for draining excess oil)
- Serving plate
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Marination Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Taste and Texture
- Taste: Spicy, savory, and slightly tangy
- Texture: Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender inside
Ingredients For Chicken Lollipops:
- 10 chicken drumettes (Wingett's)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp red chili sauce
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornflour
- 1 egg (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Water (as needed to make batter)
- Oil (for deep frying)
For Garnishing:
- Chopped coriander leaves
- Lemon wedges
- Chaat masala
How to Make Crispy & Spicy Chicken Lollipop
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Take chicken drumettes and push the meat to one end to form a lollipop shape.
- Clean and pat dry the chicken pieces.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, ginger-garlic paste, soy sauce, red chili sauce, vinegar, Kashmiri red chili powder, and garam masala.
- Add the chicken lollipops and coat them well.
- Let it marinate for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Make the Batter
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, corn flour, and egg (if using).
- Add water gradually to form a thick batter.
- Dip each marinated chicken piece into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep-frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken lollipops in batches until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chaat masala over the lollipops.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and lemon wedges.
Tips for the Best Chicken Lollipop
- Use fresh chicken for the best taste and texture.
- Marinate longer for enhanced flavor.
- Adjust spice levels according to your preference.
- Fry on medium heat to ensure even cooking.
Optional Suggestions
- Air Fryer Version: Brush marinated lollipops with oil and air-fry at 180°C for 15 minutes.
- Baked Version: Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
What to Serve with Chicken Lollipop
- Spicy Garlic Dip
- Green Chutney
- Sweet Chili Sauce
- Fried Rice or Noodles
Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer at 180°C for 5 minutes to retain crispiness.
Freeze: Store marinated raw lollipops in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
Variations
- Cheese-Stuffed Lollipops: Stuff the chicken with cheese before coating.
- Tandoori Style: Use tandoori masala for a smoky flavor.
- Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Final Thoughts
Making Crispy & Spicy Chicken Lollipops at home is easier than you think! Whether deep-fried, baked, or air-fried, this dish never fails to impress. Try this recipe and enjoy restaurant-style chicken lollipops in the comfort of your home.
FAQ
1. Can I make this recipe without deep frying?
Yes! You can air-fry or bake them for a healthier version.
2. How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce red chili powder and skip chili sauce.
3. Can I use chicken breast instead of wings?
Yes, but it won't have the same lollipop shape.
4. How do I get the perfect crispiness?
Use a corn flour and all-purpose flour mix, and fry on medium heat.
Nutrition Chart (Per Serving)
- Calories 250
- Protein 18g
- Carbs 12g
- Fats 14g
- Fiber 2g
Try this crispy and spicy chicken lollipop recipe today!