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Ayam Goreng

Flavor-Packed Ayam Goreng: Your Crispy Fried Chicken Fix

Discover the irresistible flavors of Ayam Goreng, a Malaysian crispy fried chicken dish that’s sure to impress.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Marinating Time 1 day
Total Time 1 day 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Malaysian
Calories: 370

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.25 kg Chicken (thighs and drumsticks) Bone-in skin-on is preferred for moisture and flavor.
  • 1.5 tsp Cooking/Kosher Salt Enhances the overall flavor; adjust if using table salt.
For the Marinade
  • 2 tsp Coriander Seeds Adds earthy warmth; toast before blending for maximum flavor.
  • 2 tsp Cumin Seeds Provides rich, deep notes; remember to toast first!
  • 1 tsp Fennel Seeds Offers a hint of sweetness; toast before blending to enhance fragrance.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Essential aromatic that boosts the marinade.
  • 1 tbsp Ginger Adds warmth and a zesty touch to the marinade.
  • 1 tbsp Galangal Brings a unique citrusy flavor; substitute with ginger and lime zest if needed.
  • 1.5 tsp Curry Powder The primary spice for that unmistakable flavor of Ayam Goreng.
  • 1 stalk Lemongrass Adds fresh and citrusy notes; can swap with lemongrass paste.
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Powder Gives a beautiful color and earthy flavor to the chicken.
  • 2 small Eschalots Offers mild onion sweetness; shallots can be used as a substitution.
  • 0.5 tsp Chili Powder For a mild kick; feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 2 tsp Brown Sugar Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness.
  • 7 tbsp Coconut Milk Creates a rich marinade base that deeply flavors the chicken.
For the Coating
  • 0.5 cup Cornflour / Cornstarch Essential for achieving a crispy, crunchy coating upon frying.
For Frying
  • 1.75 liters Vegetable/Canola Oil A neutral oil is best for not overpowering the flavors.
For Optional Garnish
  • Garlic, Chilli, and Green Onions Sauté together to enhance presentation and elevate the dish’s flavor.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Blender
  • Heavy Pot
  • thermometer
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ayam Goreng
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and fennel seeds. Toast them for about 2 minutes, or until they become fragrant and slightly darker in color.
  2. In a blender, combine the toasted spices with garlic, ginger, galangal, curry powder, lemongrass, turmeric, eschalots, chili powder, brown sugar, and coconut milk. Blend on high until you achieve a smooth paste, around 1-2 minutes.
  3. Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in a large ziplock bag and pour in the curry paste. Seal the bag well, ensuring it's tightly closed, then massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate the bag for 24 to 48 hours.
  4. When you're ready to cook your Ayam Goreng, remove the chicken from the fridge about 30 minutes in advance to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 80°C/175°F.
  5. Take the marinated chicken out of the bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Toss each piece in cornflour, ensuring a thorough coating.
  6. In a heavy pot, pour in vegetable or canola oil and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C/350°F.
  7. Carefully add 3 pieces of chicken into the hot oil (or a few wings for 5 minutes). Fry each batch for about 8 minutes or until they’re golden brown.
  8. Once fried, transfer the chicken pieces to a wire rack set over a baking tray and place them in the preheated oven.
  9. For an extra touch, sauté minced garlic, sliced chili, and chopped green onions in a splash of oil until golden and fragrant.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 370kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Ensure each chicken piece is evenly coated with cornflour for the signature crispy texture. Monitor oil temperature to prevent soggy chicken.

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