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A copycat of Jollibee's famous fried chicken, made extra crispy with a light coating of baking powder and served with a rich, brown gravy. The recipe uses minimal oil for a lighter bite while keeping the classic flavor and texture.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Jollibee's fried chicken, known as "Chickenjoy," is a beloved staple in the Philippines, representing comfort food that blends American-style fried chicken with Filipino flavor preferences such as a slightly sweet, savory coating.
In the Philippines, some regions add native spices like annatto or use coconut milk in the batter, while others serve the chicken with a tangy vinegar dip instead of the classic brown gravy.
The gravy is a smooth, slightly sweet soy‑based sauce poured over or served alongside the crispy chicken, often enjoyed with steamed rice to balance the richness.
Fried chicken is a centerpiece at birthdays, family gatherings, and fiestas, symbolizing hospitality and celebration in Filipino households.
The secret lies in the light coating of baking powder and a precise oil temperature, which yields an ultra‑crisp skin while keeping the meat juicy—features that set it apart from ordinary fried chicken.
Authentic ingredients include bone‑in chicken, baking powder, all‑purpose flour, and a simple spice blend. Substitutes like gluten‑free flour or dairy‑free milk work but may alter texture and flavor.
Serve the chicken with garlic fried rice, a side of pickled vegetables (atsara), or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the richness of the gravy.
Common errors include using oil that isn’t hot enough, overcrowding the pan, and not drying the chicken skin, all of which can lead to soggy or unevenly cooked chicken.
Baking powder creates tiny air pockets in the coating during frying, resulting in a lighter, crunchier crust that mimics Jollibee’s signature texture.
Julia Vuong’s YouTube channel focuses on approachable, health‑conscious home cooking, often featuring quick techniques that reduce oil and simplify classic comfort foods.
Julia Vuong emphasizes lower‑oil methods and clear, step‑by‑step visuals, making traditionally rich Filipino dishes like Jollibee‑style fried chicken accessible to busy home cooks while still honoring authentic flavors.
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