Mar Far Chicken Recipe

Mar Far chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy, golden-brown fried chicken pieces served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love restaurant-style fried chicken with a unique flavor profile. It’s ideal for family dinners, parties, or a delicious treat at home.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Crispy texture: Perfectly fried for a crunchy exterior.
• Flavor-packed: Marinated for bold and savory flavors.
• Simple ingredients: Uses common pantry staples.
• Versatile dish: Serve as an appetizer or main course.
• Restaurant quality: Tastes just like your favorite takeout.

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• Maggiano’s Lemon Cookies

What Is Mar Far Chicken?

Mar Far chicken is a Chinese-American dish made by marinating chicken pieces, coating them in a seasoned batter, and frying them to golden perfection. It is often paired with a sweet and sour dipping sauce for a flavorful contrast.

Mar Far Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breast or thighs: 1½ lbs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Ground ginger: ½ teaspoon
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Eggs: 2 large
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup
• Cornstarch: ½ cup
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
• Water: ¾ cup (adjust for batter consistency)
• Vegetable oil: For frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• Ketchup: ½ cup
• White vinegar: 2 tablespoons
• Brown sugar: 3 tablespoons
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Mar Far Chicken

Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let marinate for 20 minutes.

Prepare the Batter

• In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and water. The batter should be thick enough to coat the chicken evenly.

Heat the Oil

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.

Fry the Chicken

• Dip each piece of marinated chicken into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Carefully drop the coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Make the Dipping Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
• Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the fried chicken hot with the sweet and tangy dipping sauce on the side.

What to Serve with Mar Far Chicken

• Steamed rice: A classic side to soak up the flavors.
• Stir-fried vegetables: Add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Egg rolls: Pair with crispy egg rolls for a complete meal.
• Noodles: Serve alongside chow mein or lo mein for a hearty dish.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mar Far Chicken

• Maintain oil temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F for crispy, evenly fried chicken.
• Use fresh oil: Fresh oil ensures a clean and light flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to achieve even cooking.
• Rest the batter: Let the batter sit for 5-10 minutes to improve its texture.
• Serve immediately: Mar Far chicken is best enjoyed fresh and hot.

Variations of Mar Far Chicken Mar Far Chicken

• Spicy version: Add chili powder or hot sauce to the batter.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and soy sauce.
• Lemon twist: Add lemon juice and zest to the marinade for a citrusy flavor.
• Honey dipping sauce: Swap the sweet and sour sauce for honey mustard or a honey-based glaze.
• Vegetarian option: Use tofu or cauliflower instead of chicken.

How to Store Mar Far Chicken Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Mar Far Chicken Leftovers

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Air fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5-7 minutes for a quick and crispy result.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fiber: 1g

FAQs

How do I make Mar Far chicken extra crispy?

To make Mar Far chicken extra crispy, ensure the oil is preheated to 350°F and maintain the temperature throughout frying. Use a thick batter and fry in small batches to prevent crowding, which lowers the oil temperature.

Can I bake Mar Far chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake Mar Far chicken for a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place the battered chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauce goes best with Mar Far chicken?

The best dipping sauce for Mar Far chicken is a sweet and sour sauce made with ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. You can also serve it with honey mustard or spicy chili sauce for variation.

How do I store leftover Mar Far chicken?

Store leftover Mar Far chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Final Words

Mar Far chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its crispy texture and flavorful dipping sauce make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Try this recipe today and enjoy restaurant-style fried chicken at home!

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