Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for several reasons! First, it brings the classic flavors of Chinese takeout straight to your kitchen. The crispy chicken paired with a honey garlic sauce is the ultimate flavor combination: it’s savory, sweet, and just the right amount of tangy. The texture of the chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside. Additionally, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option. You’ll love how simple it is to make this flavorful meal at home!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• 1 egg

• ¾ cup cold water

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and baking powder.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and cold water together.

3. Dip the chicken pieces into the wet mixture, then coat them evenly in the dry flour mixture.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Remove the chicken from the oil and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

6. For the honey garlic sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.

7. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for another minute until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

8. Toss the crispy chicken in the honey garlic sauce, coating each piece evenly.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of sriracha to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Use crispy tofu or plant-based chicken instead of regular chicken for a vegetarian version.

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for added texture and flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use a gluten-free soy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain its crispy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, but the coating might not stay as crispy.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

To maintain the crispiness, make sure the oil is hot enough for frying. Also, drain the chicken on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more tender texture. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to make the chicken fresh for the crispiest texture, but you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Simply reheat and toss together when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! This recipe is a great choice for kids due to its mild, sweet flavor. You can adjust the garlic and soy sauce amounts to make it even milder if preferred.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

What can I serve with this chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken. Place it in an airtight container and store for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to regain its crispiness.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, simply add more cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it to your desired consistency.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to the chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or use plant-based chicken for a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe.

Conclusion

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy, savory, and sweet flavors that are sure to satisfy your cravings. With its easy preparation and irresistible taste, it’s a great addition to any weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re looking for something quick, flavorful, or impressive, this dish has it all. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite recipe in no time!