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POLYNESIAN CHICKEN

Polynesian Chicken

Polynesian Chicken is a beloved dish reminiscent of classic Chinese-American cuisine. Featuring crispy, batter-fried chicken breast served atop a bed of stir-fried vegetables in a flavorful brown sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and rich umami depth. A delightful combination of crunch, tenderness, and savory goodness makes it an irresistible meal.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 5 People

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 8 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • For the Batter:
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 cup cold club soda or beer
  • For the Dish:
  • 4 cups canola oil for frying
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup button or cremini mushrooms sliced
  • 1/4 cup bamboo shoots julienned
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper julienned
  • 2 teaspoons Shaoxing wine
  • 4 cups napa cabbage shredded
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
  • Freshly ground white pepper
  • 1 cup snow peas trimmed and halved lengthwise
  • 3/4 cup hot chicken stock or water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions
 

  • Slice the chicken breast into two thinner, evenly sized portions. Lightly season both sides with salt, white pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Set aside.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, paprika, and turmeric. Gradually pour in the cold club soda or beer, stirring gently until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light and crisp texture in the batter.
  • Heat the canola oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F, using a thermometer for accuracy. Submerge each seasoned chicken breast in the batter, coating thoroughly, then carefully lower into the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, turning frequently, until golden brown. Remove and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
  • In a separate wok or skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of the frying oil. Sauté the minced garlic, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and red bell pepper for 30 seconds. Deglaze with Shaoxing wine, then add the napa cabbage, stirring for another 30 seconds. Incorporate the soy sauces, salt, sugar, sesame oil, oyster sauce, and white pepper, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
  • Stir in the snow peas, followed by the hot chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then gradually add the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to thicken until it coats the back of a spoon.
  • Transfer the stir-fried vegetables and sauce to a serving platter. Slice the fried chicken into 1½-inch-wide strips and arrange them atop the vegetables. Serve immediately with freshly steamed white rice.
Keyword Polynesian Chicken