Ayam Geprek Recipe

This crispy and spicy Ayam Geprek recipe features a golden fried chicken fillet that is "smashed" with a fiery sambal. Originating from Indonesia, this dish is a street food favorite, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. Ready in under an hour, it's a flavorful meal that packs a punch.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying
• 10-15 red chili peppers, or to taste
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp hot oil (from frying chicken)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dip each chicken thigh into the beaten egg, then dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Pat the coating onto the chicken to ensure it's well-covered.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil and fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a wire rack to drain.
3. Make the Sambal: While the chicken is frying, prepare the sambal. In a mortar and pestle, pound the chili peppers, garlic, salt, and sugar until a coarse paste forms. Critical Tip: Do not over-process; a rustic texture is part of the charm.
4. Combine and Smash: Place a fried chicken thigh on a serving plate or a mortar. Pour 2 tablespoons of the hot oil from the frying pan over the sambal paste. Transfer the sambal to the plate with the chicken. Use a pestle or a small rolling pin to lightly "geprek" (smash) the chicken, mixing it with the sambal.
5. Final Step: Serve the Ayam Geprek immediately with a side of steamed rice and fresh cucumber slices to balance the heat.