Chicken Fondue: A Tasty, Cheesy Dish To Try

Chicken fondue is a fun and interactive way to cook and eat chicken. It involves cooking small pieces of chicken in hot oil or broth, and then dipping them into various sauces. The hot oil method requires heating oil to a high temperature of around 180 to 190 degrees Celsius, while the broth method involves simmering chicken in a flavourful soup. Chicken fondue is perfect for dinner parties, offering a unique and engaging dining experience. Guests can choose from a variety of dipping sauces, such as creamy cucumber, roasted pepper, or curry, to name a few.

Oil-based or broth-based chicken fondue

If you opt for an oil-based fondue, also known as Fondue Bourguignonne, you'll be cooking small cubes of chicken in hot oil at 180 to 190°C (350 to 375°F) for just a minute or two. This method is a delicious way to prepare the chicken, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. It's important to use the right equipment for safety; a stainless steel or cast-iron fondue pot is recommended. Additionally, ensure you don't overfill the pot with oil to prevent splashing, and always keep the pot in a fixed position.

For a healthier option, you may prefer a broth-based fondue. This method allows you to control the amount of fat, calories, and sodium in your meal, especially if you make your own chicken broth. With this method, you'll cook small pieces of chicken in a boiling soup broth for a couple of minutes. You can add extra flavour to the broth by including ingredients like garlic, parsley, thyme, and green onions.

Regardless of your choice of oil or broth, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Firstly, always keep raw chicken refrigerated until it's time to cook. Secondly, ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked before consuming it. You can prevent double-dipping by providing individual dip containers or using fondue plates with compartments for different sauces. Finally, always be cautious when handling hot oil or broth, and avoid moving the pot once it's heated to prevent any accidents.

Chicken fondue is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. It's recommended to offer at least three different sauces to your guests, such as creamy cucumber sauce, roasted pepper and garlic sauce, curry sauce, or tomato and ginger sauce. So, whether you choose oil or broth, chicken fondue is a delightful and interactive dining experience that your guests are sure to enjoy!

Chicken fondue cooking time and temperature

Chicken fondue is a fun and interactive way to cook and serve a meal. It involves cooking small pieces of chicken in hot oil or broth, and then dipping them into various sauces. The cooking time and temperature for chicken fondue depend on whether you are using an oil-based or broth-based fondue.

For oil-based chicken fondue, also known as Fondue Bourguignonne, it is important to use a stainless steel or cast-iron fondue pot, as other types of fondue pots may not be safe for use with hot oil. Fill the pot with peanut or canola oil to about two-thirds full, making sure not to overfill to avoid splashing hot oil on your guests. Turn on the burner and heat the oil to a temperature between 180 to 190°C (350 to 375°F). Once the oil has reached the desired temperature, cook the pieces of chicken for about 1-2 minutes. It is important to note that the chicken should be cut into small cubes, about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in size, before cooking.

On the other hand, broth-based chicken fondue involves cooking the chicken in a boiling soup broth. The cooking time for broth-based fondue is also around 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked to your desired level of doneness. It is important to maintain the broth at a high temperature, so a burner is necessary instead of tea candles. Similar to oil-based fondue, the chicken should be cut into small, bite-sized pieces before cooking.

Regardless of the type of fondue you choose, it is important to keep the chicken refrigerated until it is time to cook it. Additionally, make sure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked before serving. For food safety reasons, it is recommended to use separate plates for raw and cooked chicken, and to use different plates for different types of meat to avoid cross-contamination.

Chicken fondue dipping sauces

Chicken fondue is a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. It involves cooking small cubes of raw chicken in hot oil or broth and then dipping them into various sauces. Here are some delicious dipping sauce recipes that are perfect for chicken fondue:

Creamy Cucumber Sauce

This refreshing sauce is a perfect complement to the richness of the fondue. To make it, simply beat 3 oz of cream cheese with a spoon until creamy, and then stir in a cup of finely chopped peeled cucumber and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped onion. Cover and chill the sauce for about 2 hours before serving.

Curry Sauce

Although there is no specific recipe for this sauce, it is mentioned as a good pairing for chicken fondue.

Tomato and Ginger Sauce

Unfortunately, there is no recipe for this sauce either, but it is recommended for chicken fondue.

Cocktail Sauce

This sauce is also recommended for chicken fondue, but no recipe is provided.

Guacamole Dip

A guacamole dip is a great option for those who love the creamy texture and mild flavour of avocados. Unfortunately, no recipe is provided for this dip.

Horseradish Mayonnaise

This sauce is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick with their food. Unfortunately, no recipe is provided.

Teriyaki Sauce

This sauce is a great option for those who enjoy a sweet and savoury flavour. To make it, sauté one clove of garlic and 2 teaspoons of finely chopped ginger in 2 teaspoons of sesame oil for 30 seconds. Then, add 1/4 cup of sherry wine or sake, 1 tablespoon of packed brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Stir until thickened and serve at room temperature or warm.

Pesto

Pesto is a classic sauce that pairs well with chicken. While no recipe is provided, traditional pesto is made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

Raspberry-Jalapeno Jam

For those who enjoy a sweet and spicy combination, this unique jam is a great option. No recipe is provided, but it likely involves cooking down raspberries and jalapenos to create a thick, jam-like consistency.

When preparing chicken fondue, it is important to use a stainless steel or cast-iron fondue pot for hot oil fondues to avoid cracking under high heat. Additionally, always use separate plates for different types of meat to avoid contamination, and keep the chicken refrigerated until it's time to cook.

Chicken fondue equipment

Chicken fondue is a fun and interactive way to cook and serve food. It involves cooking small pieces of raw chicken in hot oil or broth, and then dipping the cooked meat into various sauces. To host a chicken fondue night, you will need the right equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here is a list of essential equipment for a successful chicken fondue:

Fondue Pot

The most important piece of equipment is a fondue pot. It is crucial to use a stainless steel or cast iron fondue pot designed specifically for hot oil or broth. Other types of fondue pots may crack under high heat and pose a safety hazard. Ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the amount of oil or broth you need and has a suitable heat source, such as a burner, to maintain the desired temperature.

Thermometer

A thermometer is essential to ensure the oil or broth reaches the correct temperature. For hot oil chicken fondue, the ideal temperature range is 180°C to 190°C (350°F to 375°F). Adjust the heat source accordingly to maintain this temperature throughout the meal.

Skewers or Fondue Forks

You will need skewers or long-handled fondue forks to spear the chicken pieces and vegetables. These utensils allow guests to safely cook their food in the hot oil or broth without burning themselves. Ensure you have enough skewers or forks for all your guests, plus a few extras.

Platters and Plates

Provide separate platters or plates for raw and cooked chicken. This helps prevent contamination and ensures food safety. Arrange the raw chicken and vegetables attractively on a platter, and have extra plates for guests to place their cooked food.

Dipping Sauces and Containers

Offer a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavour of the chicken. Prepare at least three different sauces and serve them in individual containers or on special fondue plates with compartments. This also helps prevent double-dipping and keeps the sauces neat and tidy.

Paper Towels and Napkins

Have plenty of paper towels or napkins on hand for guests to wipe their hands and mouths during the meal. Fondue can be a messy affair, so it's essential to provide these essentials.

Safety Equipment

Always prioritise safety when working with hot oil or broth. Keep a fire extinguisher or a large box of baking soda nearby in case of any flare-ups. Additionally, ensure you have a safe area to place the hot fondue pot when not in use, as it should not be moved once filled with hot oil or broth.

With the right equipment and safety precautions, you'll be well on your way to a delightful chicken fondue experience.

Chicken fondue health and safety

Chicken fondue is a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends, but it's important to keep some health and safety guidelines in mind to ensure a pleasant and safe experience for everyone. Here are some key considerations for chicken fondue health and safety:

Equipment and Setup:

Firstly, ensure you have the right equipment. Use a stainless steel or cast-iron fondue pot specifically designed for hot oil if you're preparing an oil-based chicken fondue. Other types of fondue pots may crack under high heat and pose a safety hazard. Position the pot appropriately before filling it, as it should not be moved once filled with hot oil or broth. If using an electric pot, be cautious of the cord – ensure it doesn't dangle where it could be pulled or tripped over.

Food Preparation:

When preparing the chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces, slightly larger than dice. A good guideline is that a portion should be equal to the size of your palm. Keep raw chicken refrigerated until it's fondue time, and ensure it's on a separate platter from cooked chicken to avoid cross-contamination. If using other meats, keep them on separate plates too.

Cooking:

Whether cooking in oil or broth, ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. In oil, cook the chicken pieces for about 1-2 minutes at 180-190°C (350-375°F). In broth, cook for a similar duration, ensuring the broth is maintained at a low boil, and the chicken is no longer pink in the centre.

Dipping:

Provide a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavour of the chicken. It's recommended to have at least three options. These sauces can be prepared ahead of time and kept refrigerated. To prevent double-dipping, consider using individual dip containers or fondue plates with compartments.

Safety:

Hot oil and broth can cause severe burns, so exercise caution when handling the fondue pot and cooking. Be mindful of splashing hot oil onto yourself or your guests. Use long-handled fondue forks for cooking and transfer the cooked food to a plate before using a regular fork to eat.

Nutrition:

Chicken fondue can be a relatively healthy meal, especially when opting for a broth base over oil. Making your own broth allows you to control the sodium content and reduce calories and fat. However, be mindful of the overall calories and fat content, especially when consuming large quantities or adding dipping sauces.

Frequently asked questions