Indonesian Ayam Goreng – Crispy Fried with Spices

Indonesian Ayam Goreng is the epitome of crispy fried chicken with a rich, aromatic blend of spices. This savory dish delivers the perfect balance of crunchy texture and bold flavors, with a hint of sweetness and spice. Perfect for any occasion, Ayam Goreng is a beloved dish that will take your taste buds on a delicious journey through Indonesia.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with a side of rice or salad

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 22g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free flour), Dairy-Free, High Protein

Ingredients List

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts, bone-in or boneless)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to spice preference)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup rice flour (for extra crispiness)
• 1 egg, beaten (for coating)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, turmeric powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, garlic powder, grated ginger, soy sauce, sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis), chili powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces evenly with the marinade and cover the bowl. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare for Frying: In a shallow bowl, add the rice flour. Beat the egg in another bowl. Dip each piece of marinated chicken first into the egg and then into the rice flour, making sure it’s coated evenly for a crispy texture.
3. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it touches the surface.
4. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 75°C/165°F).
5. Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with steamed rice, a simple cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables on the side.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Rice Flour for Extra Crispiness: If you want the crispiest fried chicken, using rice flour instead of regular flour creates a lighter, crunchier texture.
• Marination Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to your taste. If you prefer less spice, omit the chili powder or use a milder chili.
• Kecap Manis: This Indonesian sweet soy sauce is key to achieving the authentic flavor of Ayam Goreng. If you can’t find it, substitute with a mix of regular soy sauce and a small amount of sugar or honey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Indonesian Ayam Goreng without bone-in chicken?
A: Yes! You can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts for quicker cooking. Just ensure the pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking times.

Q: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Absolutely! You can add more chili powder to the marinade or include fresh chopped chilies for an extra kick. You can also serve it with a side of sambal for even more heat.

Q: How can I make Ayam Goreng ahead of time?
A: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. After frying, if you’d like to reheat, you can place the chicken on a baking sheet in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore the crispiness.

Q: Can I use other types of flour?
A: You can use all-purpose flour, but rice flour will provide a much crispier and lighter coating. If you’re gluten intolerant, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute.

Now that you have the recipe for Indonesian Ayam Goreng, it’s time to enjoy the crispy, spiced goodness of this delicious fried chicken. Perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish brings bold, vibrant flavors to your table. Fry up these golden pieces and serve with your favorite sides for a taste of Indonesia right at home.