Moes Chili Crisp Chicken Recipe

Moe’s Southwest Grill has always been a favorite among Tex-Mex lovers, but one of its latest offerings, Moes Chili Crisp Chicken, has taken its menu to a whole new level. Combining bold flavors, crispy texture, and a perfect balance of spice, this dish has quickly become a fan favorite. But what exactly makes it stand out?

In this article, we will dive deep into everything you need to know about Moes Chili Crisp Chicken—its ingredients, nutritional profile, taste, and even how to recreate it at home. We’ll also explore how it compares to other popular Moe’s chicken options and what customers on Reddit and social media are saying about it.

Whether you’re considering trying it for the first time or looking for a homemade recipe, this guide will provide all the details you need. Let’s begin by breaking down what Moes Chili Crisp Chicken is all about.

What is Moe’s Chili Crisp Chicken?

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken is a savory, slightly spicy, and crispy chicken dish introduced by Moe’s Southwest Grill as part of their expanding Tex-Mex offerings. Unlike traditional grilled or fried chicken, this dish features a unique chili crisp coating, adding layers of crunch, spice, and umami flavors that make it stand out.

Key Features of Moes Chili Crisp Chicken

1. Crispy Texture – Unlike traditional grilled chicken, this version has a crunchy exterior, thanks to the chili crisp coating.
2. Balanced Spice Level – The dish incorporates chili oil, garlic, and spices, creating a mild but flavorful heat.
3. Umami Boost – The chili crisp sauce adds a rich, slightly smoky, and nutty flavor.
4. Versatile Usage – Can be enjoyed in bowls, burritos, tacos, or salads.

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken Ingredients

While Moe’s has not publicly released the exact recipe, the main ingredients are likely to include:

• Chicken breast or thigh (depending on whether you choose white meat)
• Chili crisp sauce (a mix of chili flakes, garlic, onion, and oil)
• Soy sauce or tamari (for umami depth)
• Cornstarch or flour (for extra crispiness)
• Spices (such as paprika, cumin, and black pepper)
• Garlic and onion powder (for an aromatic boost)

How is It Made?

The chicken is coated in a light batter or seasoning blend before being tossed in chili crisp sauce. This process helps it maintain both crispiness and intense flavor without becoming overly greasy.

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken has gained massive popularity due to its perfect balance of crunch, heat, and umami flavors—a combination that has become a favorite among Moe’s customers.

Moe’s Chili Crisp Chicken Nutrition

When indulging in a flavorful dish like Moes Chili Crisp Chicken, it’s important to consider its nutritional value—whether you’re tracking calories, protein intake, or looking for a healthier option. Let’s break down the estimated nutritional facts and how they compare to other Moe’s menu items.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

(Note: Exact values may vary based on serving size and preparation.)

How It Compares to Other Moe’s Chicken Options

To better understand the health profile, here’s how Moes Chili Crisp Chicken compares to other popular chicken options on the menu:

Is It a Healthy Choice?

• High in protein – Great for muscle building or a high-protein diet.
• Moderate calorie count – Not too high, but more than grilled chicken.
• Higher fat content – The chili crisp coating adds extra fat and calories compared to plain grilled chicken.
• Moderate sodium – Those watching their sodium intake may need to be cautious.

How to Make It Healthier

• Opt for a bowl instead of a burrito (reduces carbs).
• Pair with veggies instead of rice for a low-carb, high-protein meal.
• Ask for less sauce to cut down on fat and sodium.

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken is a delicious but slightly indulgent choice. While it’s higher in calories than grilled chicken, its bold flavors and satisfying texture make it a worthy option for those looking for something different.

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken Recipe – Make It at Home!

If you love Moes Chili Crisp Chicken but want to try making it yourself, this homemade recipe will give you the same bold, crispy, and flavorful experience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the magic of Moe’s at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh (white meat for leaner, thighs for juicier texture)
• ½ cup cornstarch or flour (for crispiness)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (for extra flavor)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg (for coating)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
• 2 tbsp oil (for frying or air frying)

For the Chili Crisp Sauce:

• 3 tbsp chili crisp oil (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp honey (for balance)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for slight tang)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (adds nuttiness)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp ginger, minced (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped scallions (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin strips.
• In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
• In a separate bowl, beat the egg.
• Coat each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, then dredge it in the seasoned cornstarch/flour mix.
• For extra crispiness, press into panko breadcrumbs (optional).

2. Cook the Chicken

• Pan-Fry: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
• Air Fryer: Spray chicken lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Baking: Place on a parchment-lined tray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

3. Make the Chili Crisp Sauce

• In a small saucepan over low heat, combine chili crisp oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
• Stir for 1-2 minutes until warm but not boiling.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Toss and Serve

• Once the chicken is cooked and crispy, toss it in the chili crisp sauce.
• Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds.
• Serve with rice, noodles, or in a taco/bowl.

Tips for the Best Chili Crisp Chicken

✅ Use thigh meat if you want extra juiciness.
✅ Double fry (fry once, let it rest, then fry again for 1 min) for restaurant-level crispiness.
✅ Make it spicier by adding red pepper flakes or sriracha.
✅ For a low-carb option, skip the cornstarch and pan-sear the chicken instead.

This easy homemade recipe lets you enjoy Moes Chili Crisp Chicken anytime, with the freedom to adjust spice levels and ingredients to your liking!

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken Recipe

Emily

This Moe's Chili Crisp Chicken is a crispy, spicy, and savory dish that combines tender chicken with a bold, umami-packed chili crisp sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a flavorful meal with friends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Fusion, Tex-Mex

Servings 4 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Deep frying pan or wok
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Tongs

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 egg
• ½ cup cold water
• 2 cups vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons chili crisp e.g., Lao Gan Ma or homemade
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 green onion chopped, for garnish
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

 

• Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, whisk cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Add egg and cold water, whisk until a smooth batter forms.
• Dip the chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
• Fry in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
• In a separate pan, heat chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
• Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
• Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
• Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F for best results.
• Variations: Add crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried veggies for a complete meal.

Keyword Moes Chili Crisp Chicken

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken Slow Cooker Adaptation

If you love the flavors of Moes Chili Crisp Chicken but want an easier, hands-off cooking method, using a slow cooker is a great option. This method keeps the chicken tender and juicy while infusing it with the bold chili crisp flavors over time.

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

• Hands-free cooking – Just set it and forget it!
• Keeps chicken extra tender – Slow cooking allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Great for meal prep – Cook a big batch and store leftovers for later.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Moes Chili Crisp Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 4 tbsp chili crisp oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for more heat)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (to thicken sauce at the end)

Step-by-Step Slow Cooker Method

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.
• Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix together chili crisp oil, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
• Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.

3. Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
• After cooking, remove the chicken and shred or slice it.

4. Thicken the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water.
• Pour this into the slow cooker, stir, and cook on HIGH for 10-15 more minutes until thickened.

5. Toss & Serve

• Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and toss with the thickened sauce.
• Serve with rice, tacos, or inside a burrito bowl!

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Moes Chili Crisp Chicken

✅ Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
✅ Don’t overcook! Chicken breast can dry out if left too long.
✅ For extra crispiness, pan-fry the shredded chicken for a few minutes after slow cooking.
✅ Make it spicier by adding more chili crisp oil or extra red pepper flakes.

This slow cooker version of Moes Chili Crisp Chicken is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, flavorful meal without much effort!

White Meat vs. Adobo Chicken at Moe’s: Which is Better?

When ordering at Moe’s Southwest Grill, you may have noticed multiple chicken options on the menu, including Moes Chili Crisp Chicken, White Meat Chicken, and Adobo Chicken. But what’s the difference between them, and which one is the better choice?

Flavor & Texture Comparison

• Moes Chili Crisp Chicken: Perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors with a crispy bite. The chili crisp sauce adds extra umami and mild spice.
• White Meat Chicken: A leaner, milder option with a lightly seasoned taste, great for those who prefer low-fat, high-protein choices.
• Adobo Chicken: A classic, smoky, and slightly tangy option with Mexican-inspired flavors.

Nutritional Comparison

• Healthiest Option? White Meat Chicken is the leanest choice, while Moes Chili Crisp Chicken is higher in calories and fat due to its crispy coating and sauce.
• Best for Protein? All three provide good protein content, but Moes Chili Crisp Chicken has the most per serving.
• Lowest Sodium? Adobo Chicken has the lowest sodium, making it a better choice for those watching their salt intake.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Want crispy and bold flavor? Go with Moes Chili Crisp Chicken.
• Looking for a lean, simple protein? White Meat Chicken is best.
• Prefer smoky, classic Tex-Mex flavors? Adobo Chicken is a solid option.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference—if you enjoy a crunchy, spicy, umami-packed bite, Moes Chili Crisp Chicken is the clear winner!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken is a bold, crispy, and flavorful addition to Moe’s Southwest Grill menu, offering a perfect balance of spice, umami, and crunch. Its unique chili crisp sauce sets it apart from traditional grilled or adobo chicken, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a mildly spicy kick with deep, savory flavors.

Whether you enjoy it in a burrito, bowl, tacos, or on its own, this dish delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. While it’s slightly higher in calories than grilled chicken, it offers a protein-packed, flavorful experience that’s worth trying.

For those who love recreating restaurant favorites at home, a homemade version is easy to make using simple ingredients like chili crisp oil, soy sauce, and crispy-fried or air-fried chicken. If you’re looking to elevate the spice and tangy notes, pairing it with an Ají Escabeche Recipe can enhance the overall experience.

Moes Chili Crisp Chicken has gained popularity across Reddit, social media, and food blogs, with most customers praising its crunchy texture and umami-packed flavor. Whether you’re a Moe’s fan or trying it for the first time, it’s a must-try dish for anyone who loves Tex-Mex with a bold twist.