Huft... 2025 is just around the corner, but still no certainty. What should we do, Bestnic?

 

Haha, I’m just talking about snacks! Speaking of mall snacks, who doesn’t drool over The Famous Taiwanese Crispy Chicken? But the problem is, buying snacks outside can be tricky. You’re excited to see “made from rice flour,” but then find out the flour comes from a supplier, and even the seller isn’t sure if it’s truly gluten-free. Frustrating, right?

 

 

So, instead of stressing, why not make it yourself? It’s not only budget-friendly, but you also know for sure that the ingredients are safe for your gluten-free diet. This time, I’ll share tips and tricks to make a healthy, delicious, and of course, gluten-free homemade version of The Famous Taiwanese Crispy Chicken. Let’s head to the kitchen!

 

 

Before we get started, let me give you a little background about gluten and why more people are switching to a gluten-free diet. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For some people, especially those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, gluten can cause digestive issues like bloating, nausea, and even extreme fatigue.

Additionally, some studies show that a gluten-free diet may help reduce inflammation in the body, make your skin glow, and provide more stable energy throughout the day.

 

 

Even if you don’t strictly need to go gluten-free, non-gluten flours offer some great benefits, like:

• Rice Flour: Rich in complex carbs that are easier to digest.
• Cassava Flour: Contains natural prebiotics that are great for gut health.
• Almond Flour: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with vitamin E.
• Coconut Flour: Low in calories, high in fiber, and adds a savory note to dishes.

So even though it’s gluten-free, it’s still delicious and full of benefits!

 

 

 

The first step to making Taiwanese Crispy Chicken is, of course, the flour. Gluten-free crispy flour is a game changer. I’ve shared the recipe in a previous post, so if you haven’t seen it, check it out Gluten-Free All-Purpose Crispy Flour

This crispy flour uses a combination of:

• Rice flour
• Non-GMO cornstarch (healthier and with minimal chemical residue)
• A touch of spices for aroma: garlic powder, white pepper, and five spice (ngohiong).

Fun fact: Cornstarch adds extra crispiness due to its heat-resistant properties. That’s why gluten-free cornstarch is a must for snacks like this!

 

 

 

 

Marinating the chicken is the key to great flavor. I always use a simple yet powerful spice mix:

• Five spice: A Chinese spice blend that gives a unique savory kick.
• PURA Chicken Broth and Fine Sea Salt: This combo adds complexity while keeping it natural. The broth is 100% MSG-free! Perfect for those craving umami without additives.
• Rice Flour and Cornstarch: Helps the marinade stick perfectly to the chicken.
• A bit of water: To dissolve the spices and make the chicken juicier when fried.

 

Speaking of chicken, choose chicken breast fillets cut slightly thin, but not tissue-thin, okay? Remember, this is chicken, not your patience!

 

 

 

 

One reason many people hesitate to try gluten-free baking is the stigma that the ingredients are pricey. But there are plenty of affordable gluten-free ingredients, like:

• Rice flour, which you can buy cheaply at traditional markets.
• Cassava flour, a local favorite that’s versatile and easy to find.
• Bulk spices like five spice or garlic powder from baking supply stores or wholesale markets.

 

Or, if you don’t want the hassle, check out the shopping links in my Instagram bio @nonanic.id. I’ve shared where to buy all the ingredients for this recipe. 🤩

 

When you do the math, making Taiwanese Crispy Chicken at home is much cheaper than buying it at the mall. Plus, you can make a healthier version since you have full control over the ingredients.

 

 

It’s not just about health—gluten-free flour has some perks for frying, like:

1. Crunchier texture: Gluten-free flours like rice flour or cornstarch are lighter, making fried foods crispier than those made with wheat flour.
2. Less oily: Gluten-free flours usually result in drier fried foods, so they don’t feel greasy.
3. Neutral taste: Flours like cassava or rice flour have a milder flavor, letting the marinade shine.

 

 

Besides the health and budget benefits, making Taiwanese Crispy Chicken at home brings its own satisfaction. You can experiment with seasonings or even make a spicier version with chili powder. Plus, if you have kids, they can help with marinating or coating the chicken. Super fun, right?

 

 

So, Bestnic, what’s your choice? Still buying at the mall or making it yourself? For me, it’s definitely DIY. It’s healthier, cheaper, and more satisfying since you can explore flavors that suit your taste. Give it a try at home and share your results with me! Happy cooking!

Course Snacks

Cuisine Taiwanese

Keyword taiwanese crispy chicken, taiwanese snacks, snacks bebas gluten, gluten-free snacks, xxl crispy chicken

Prep 45 minutes

Cook 30 minutes

Servings 2 pieces