There’s something undeniably captivating about the first bite of Indonesian Spicy Chicken—an explosion of vibrant flavors that transports you straight to a bustling market in Bali. I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those long evenings when boredom from takeout was creeping in, and my craving for something comforting yet exciting was calling.
The fragrant lemongrass, zesty lime, and fiery red chillies create a symphony in your mouth, and the best part? This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight pick-me-up. With the chicken marinated to juicy perfection, it’s not just a meal but an experience that turns any ordinary dinner into a culinary adventure. Trust me, your taste buds deserve this, and your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the simple yet satisfying process of creating this spicy delight!
Why is Indonesian Spicy Chicken so special?
Explosive flavors: Each bite bursts with a delightful mix of lemongrass, lime, and chillies that transport you straight to Indonesia.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something exciting.
Mouthwatering aroma: As it cooks, the enticing fragrance will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist indulging early.
Versatile dish: Pair this with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad to customize your meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress family and friends with this stunning dish that brings a taste of Bali to your dinner table!
Indonesian Spicy Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 500 g Chicken – Bone-in and skin-on provides rich flavor and moisture during cooking.
• 1 small Lemon – Adds zesty brightness to the marinade.
For the Spice Paste
• 5 Large Red Chillies – Fresh chilies deliver a spicy kick that defines Indonesian cuisine.
• 4 cm Ginger – Provides warmth and depth to the spice blend.
• 8 small Shallots – Adds sweetness and aromatic undertones.
• 4 cloves Garlic – Infuses the dish with savory goodness and aroma.
For the Marinade and Cooking
• 2 tbsp cooking oil – Essential for searing and bringing out flavors in the chicken.
• 1 cup Water – Helps create a luscious sauce to complement the chicken.
• 1 tsp Brown sugar – Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
• 2 Lime leaves – Adds a fragrant note, enhancing the exotic flavor of the Indonesian Spicy Chicken.
• Salt and black pepper – To taste, necessary for bringing all the flavors together.
For the Garnish
• 1 medium Tomato, chopped – Freshness and color boost the dish’s appeal.
• 2 stalks Lemongrass, crushed – Imparts a citrusy aroma and connects to the dish’s name.
How to Make Indonesian Spicy Chicken
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Prepare the chicken. Start by cleaning your chicken thoroughly, then marinate it with 1 teaspoon of salt and the juice from the small lemon. Let it rest for 15 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
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Make the spice paste. In a food processor or using a pestle and mortar, combine the red chillies, ginger, shallots, and garlic. Grind everything until the mixture is smooth and fragrant—this will be the heart of your dish!
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Sear the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Sear the marinated chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest for a moment.
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Sauté the spice paste. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of cooking oil and sauté the spice paste over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring often. You’re looking for that lovely aroma to fill your kitchen!
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Combine and cook. Add the seared chicken back into the pan with the sautéed spice paste, crushed lemongrass, brown sugar, chopped tomato, and a cup of water. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook and stir occasionally for 5-10 minutes, or until the water has mostly evaporated and a luscious sauce forms.
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Garnish and serve. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and garnish with thinly sliced lime leaves for a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
Optional: Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Indonesian Spicy Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the bold flavors and aromas of your marinated chicken.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, this rice acts as the perfect canvas to soak up the zesty sauce of the dish.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy, vibrant medley of cabbage and carrots tossed in a light vinaigrette brings freshness that balances the dish’s spiciness.
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Coconut Rice: Infused with creamy coconut milk, this rice adds a rich undertone and a hint of sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the fiery flavors.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini provide a savory depth and enhance your plate’s texture, making it well-rounded and satisfying.
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Mango Salad: The sweet and tangy notes from the mango deliver a refreshing contrast to the chicken’s heat, making every bite dynamite.
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Lime Sorbet: For dessert, this cool and refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate after a spicy meal, leaving a zesty finish that lingers delightfully.
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Iced Ginger Tea: A soothing drink to wash down the meal, its warm spices echo the flavors of your chicken while providing a refreshing touch.
Each of these pairings enhances the experience of savoring Indonesian Spicy Chicken, turning your dinner into a vibrant feast!
Indonesian Spicy Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists to make this delightful dish even more your own!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce if your pantry requires gluten-free options. You won’t lose any of the flavors that make this dish delightful!
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Lighter Protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a lighter protein option. Both can still absorb all that delicious marinade and spice!
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Vegetable Booster: Add bell peppers or snap peas for a pop of color and crunch. Their sweetness balances nicely with the spiciness of the dish.
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Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut cream for a richer, creamier sauce that adds a tropical twist to your Indonesian Spicy Chicken.
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Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding a tablespoon of sambal oelek or moving to milder peppers like jalapeños if the large red chillies are too fiery for your palate. Your dish can be just as adventurous without turning up the heat too high!
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Herb Enhancer: Toss in some fresh basil or cilantro right before serving for a vibrant fresh note that elevates the entire dish. The aroma combined with the chicken is simply irresistible!
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate a splash of orange juice along with the lime for a fruity brightness. It enhances the dish and adds a beautiful depth of flavor.
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Noodle Fusion: Serve over a bed of jasmine rice or rice noodles for a complete meal. The added carbs soak up the incredible sauce perfectly, ensuring no flavor is left behind!
Make Ahead Options
These Indonesian Spicy Chicken dishes are fantastic for meal prep aficionados! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those zesty flavors to infuse deeply. Additionally, you can prepare the spice paste in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear the marinated chicken and sauté the prepped spice paste as directed. This will ensure the dish maintains its vibrant taste and aroma! The key to keeping the chicken juicy is to avoid overcooking it upon reheating—warm it gently on the stovetop. Enjoy a quick and delicious homemade meal any night of the week!
How to Store and Freeze Indonesian Spicy Chicken
Fridge: Store your leftover Indonesian Spicy Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy, heat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed for moisture.
Expert Tips for Indonesian Spicy Chicken
• Marinate Wisely: Let your chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the lemon and salt flavors completely, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
• Smooth Paste: Ensure your spice paste is ground smoothly for even distribution and a better flavor profile. Lumpy paste means uneven taste in your Indonesian Spicy Chicken.
• Searing Secrets: Sear the chicken on high heat to achieve that golden brown crust, essential for locking in juices. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure perfect browning.
• Monitor Liquid: Keep an eye on the water level while cooking; it should almost evaporate to create a rich sauce. Too much liquid can lead to a soggy dish, losing that desirable texture.
• Final Touch: Don’t skip garnishing with lime leaves! They add an aromatic flair and elevate your Indonesian Spicy Chicken with a burst of freshness.
• Serving Suggestions: For a delightful twist, serve with coconut rice or a crunchy salad to complement the spiciness and embrace a true Indonesian feast!
Indonesian Spicy Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using bone-in and skin-on chicken not only enhances the flavor but also keeps it moist during cooking. This choice ensures a richer taste and better overall texture in your Indonesian Spicy Chicken.
How can I store leftover Indonesian Spicy Chicken?
Very simple! Store your leftover Indonesian Spicy Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you don’t think you’ll finish it within that time, you can freeze it instead!
What’s the best way to freeze Indonesian Spicy Chicken?
To freeze, let your chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in a pan or microwave.
Why is my spice paste not blending well?
If your spice paste is lumpy, it’s likely because there wasn’t enough moisture or the right blending tool was not used. I recommend adding a tiny bit of water or oil as you blend or using a pestle and mortar for better control. A smooth paste is crucial for the best flavor in your Indonesian Spicy Chicken!
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Indonesian Spicy Chicken can easily be tailored to fit various dietary needs. If there are allergies to garlic or shallots, try using onion or shallot powder instead. For a gluten-free option, make sure your cooking oil and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How do I know if my chicken is properly cooked?
For perfectly cooked chicken, it’s best to use a meat thermometer; it should read at least 75°C (165°F) at the thickest part. Alternatively, the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink. Enjoy the succulent flavors of your Indonesian Spicy Chicken without worry!
Indonesian Spicy Chicken with Zesty Lemongrass Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the chicken. Start by cleaning your chicken thoroughly, then marinate it with 1 teaspoon of salt and the juice from the small lemon. Let it rest for 15 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
- Make the spice paste. In a food processor or using a pestle and mortar, combine the red chillies, ginger, shallots, and garlic. Grind everything until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
- Sear the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Sear the marinated chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest for a moment.
- Sauté the spice paste. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of cooking oil and sauté the spice paste over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring often.
- Combine and cook. Add the seared chicken back into the pan with the sautéed spice paste, crushed lemongrass, brown sugar, chopped tomato, and a cup of water. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook and stir occasionally for 5-10 minutes, or until the water has mostly evaporated and a luscious sauce forms.
- Garnish and serve. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and garnish with thinly sliced lime leaves for a touch of elegance and extra flavor.