Ingredients:
- Chicken breast: 2 large pieces
- Tea Rubs: 1 tablespoon (a blend of black tea leaves, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of brown sugar)
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Eggs: 2
- Water: 1 cup
- Vegetable oil: enough for frying
- Salt: to taste
- Black pepper: to taste
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Hot sauce: 2 tablespoons (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tea Rubs: In a small bowl, mix the black tea leaves, paprika, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. Crush the tea leaves lightly with a mortar and pestle or use a spice grinder to create a fine blend.
- Season the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the tea rubs over the chicken and press gently to adhere.
- Prepare the Batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. In another dish, beat the eggs with a little water to create a thin batter.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip the seasoned chicken into the flour mixture, then coat with the egg batter, ensuring full coverage.
- Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a deep pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve the sweet and spicy fried chicken cutlet with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce.
Tips:
- The tea rubs add a unique aroma and depth of flavor to the chicken, complementing the sweet and spicy flavors.
- For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper to the tea rubs.
- This Sweet and Spicy Fried Chicken Cutlet with Tea Rubs recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or a game day gathering. The addition of tea rubs creates a memorable and flavorful twist on a classic dish.