Taste the Magic of Boston Pizza’s Thai Chicken Bites: Step-by-Step Guide to Recreating the Restaurant’s Star Dish

Craving the irresistible crunch and savory flavor of Boston Pizza‘s Thai Chicken Bites? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will empower you with all the secrets and techniques to recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Thai Sauce:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Create the Breading

• In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• In a separate dish, beat the egg.
• In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and cilantro.

3. Double Bread the Chicken

• Dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the panko mixture.
• Repeat this process to create a double breading.

4. Fry the Bites

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Carefully drop the chicken bites into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Make the Thai Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes.
• Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.

6. Toss and Serve

• Remove the chicken bites from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
• Immediately toss the chicken bites in the Thai sauce.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Success

• Use a meat mallet to tenderize the chicken breasts before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
• Double breading the chicken ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
• Fry the chicken bites in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes or tortilla chips.
• Adjust the spiciness of the Thai sauce by adding more or less red pepper flakes.

Variations

• Spicy Thai Chicken Bites: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the Thai sauce.
• Honey Garlic Thai Chicken Bites: Replace the brown sugar in the Thai sauce with honey.
• Teriyaki Thai Chicken Bites: Use teriyaki sauce instead of the Thai sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Thai Chicken Bites with a side of steamed rice or noodles.
• Pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sweet chili sauce, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dressing.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions.

Finishing Touches

• For a restaurant-style presentation: Arrange the chicken bites on a serving platter and drizzle with additional Thai sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
• To make ahead: Cook the chicken bites according to the instructions, then let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Beyond the Bites: Creative Uses

• Thai Chicken Bites Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with the chicken bites, chopped vegetables, and a drizzle of Thai sauce.
• Thai Chicken Bites Tacos: Fill tortillas with the chicken bites, shredded cabbage, and your favorite taco toppings.
• Thai Chicken Bites Pizza: Spread a pizza crust with Thai sauce, then top with the chicken bites, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use thawed frozen chicken. However, it may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

Q: How can I make the chicken bites gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I make the Thai sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Thai sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before using it.