Fried Chicken Bites

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup amber or dark rum
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
• cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• About 2 cups vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Accompaniments: lime wedges; hot sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Stir together rum, lime juice, soy sauce, and sugar in a shallow bowl until sugar has dissolved.

2. 2

   Add chicken and stir to coat.

3. 3

   Marinate at room temperature 25 minutes.

4. 4

   While chicken finishes marinating, heat 1 inch oil in a deep 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.

5. 5

   Meanwhile, whisk together flour, paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a shallow bowl.

6. 6

   Drain chicken and pat dry.

7. 7

   Dredge in flour, shaking off excess, then transfer to a plate.

8. 8

   Fry chicken in 3 batches, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown and cooked through, 6 to 7 minutes per batch. (If chicken darkens too quickly, reduce heat.) Transfer to paper towels to drain.