Thai Chicken Bites from Boston Pizza feature tender, bite-sized chicken pieces glazed in a zesty Thai-inspired sauce, garnished with fresh green onions and served with a side of cool, creamy dipping sauce, offering a flavorful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking sheet or frying pan (depending on cooking method)
- Parchment paper (if baking)
- Saucepan (for glazing sauce)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Serving plate
- Small bowl (for dipping sauce)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
- 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
- 2 green onions
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt (to taste for sauce)
- Pepper (to taste for sauce)
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures tender and juicy Thai Chicken Bites, while coating them evenly with cornstarch creates a crispy texture when fried or baked. The zesty Thai-inspired sauce requires fresh garlic and ginger for authentic flavor, combined with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sriracha for the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. Make sure to measure the dipping sauce ingredients carefully, blending mayonnaise with lime juice, sesame oil, and seasonings for a creamy contrast. Fresh green onions should be finely sliced and used as a garnish to enhance both presentation and flavor. Your preparation of Thai Chicken Bites from Boston Pizza copycat menu will capture the restaurant's signature taste and texture when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or heat vegetable oil in frying pan if frying.
- Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces on cutting board.
- In mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange chicken on parchment-lined baking sheet (if baking), or fry in hot oil until golden and cooked through.
- Set cooked chicken aside on serving plate.
- In saucepan, combine Thai sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Whisk and heat sauce over medium until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Toss cooked chicken in the warmed sauce with tongs until evenly coated.
- In small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to make dipping sauce.
- Slice green onions with chef’s knife.
- Garnish glazed chicken bites with sliced green onions.
- Serve chicken bites immediately with dipping sauce on the side.
Substitution
Thai Chicken Bites from Boston Pizza can be recreated at home using simple substitutions if specific ingredients are unavailable. You can replace boneless chicken breast with thigh meat for juicier bites, or use a gluten-free cornstarch alternative to accommodate dietary needs. If fresh ginger or garlic is missing, powdered forms can work in a pinch but may alter the flavor slightly. For the sweet chili sauce, a mixture of chili garlic sauce and honey can substitute effectively, maintaining the authentic sweet and spicy balance. Your choice of baking or frying affects texture; baking yields a lighter option while frying produces a crispier bite.
Tips
Ensure the chicken pieces are uniformly cut to promote even cooking and prevent undercooked centers. Thoroughly coat each chicken piece in the cornstarch mixture to achieve that desirable crispy texture when baked or fried. When preparing the Thai-inspired glaze, gently simmer the sauce to meld the flavors without overly reducing it, ensuring a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. Your dipping sauce should be tasted and adjusted for salt and pepper before serving to complement the chicken bites perfectly.
Nutritions
Thai Chicken Bites provide a good source of lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken breast, supporting muscle repair and growth. The dish includes healthy fats from vegetable oil and sesame oil, while the garlic and ginger add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Sweet chili sauce and honey contribute natural sugars, giving energy but should be consumed in moderation. Your meal is balanced with savory and spicy flavors that enhance nutrient absorption and satisfaction.
Storage
Store leftover Thai Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture. Separate the chicken from the dipping sauce to prevent sogginess, keeping the sauce in a small sealed container. Gently reheat the chicken in an oven at 350degF (175degC) or in a skillet to retain the crispness before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful bites. Swap cornstarch for rice flour or arrowroot powder to achieve a lighter, crispier coating. Try baking instead of frying to make a healthier version, using cooking spray to ensure even crispiness. Enhance the dipping sauce by adding a teaspoon of Sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat tailored to your taste.
Allergies
Your Thai Chicken Bites may pose allergy risks due to common allergens such as soy from the soy sauce and eggs, which are often present in mayonnaise. The presence of sesame oil can also trigger allergic reactions for those sensitive to sesame seeds. Individuals with garlic or ginger allergies should be cautious, as these ingredients are part of the flavorful sauce blend.
Why this recipe?
Boston Pizza's Thai Chicken Bites are loved for their perfect combination of crispy texture and bold, tangy flavors infused with authentic Thai spices and a sweet chili dipping sauce. The dish offers a unique, flavorful twist on classic chicken bites, making it a popular appetizer choice for those seeking a savory and satisfying experience. Recreating this recipe at home allows you to customize the spice levels and freshness, ensuring every bite matches your personal taste preferences. Making a copycat version is worth it to enjoy restaurant-quality bites anytime while impressing guests with a flavorful, authentic snack.