Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and savory glaze. The crispy texture and bold flavors make it a favorite for many. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe for Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is simple yet delicious, providing a great balance of flavors. It uses basic ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Plus, the dish is fun to make and can be served on its own or alongside rice and veggies. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine at home without any hassle.
How to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Oil for frying (canola or other neutral oil)
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Pinch of salt or seasoning of choice
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (3 if you like it extra garlicky)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, sliced
Directions
Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15–20 minutes.Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Set the mixture aside.Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), fry the chicken in small batches for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove the chicken and drain it on paper towels.Glaze the Chicken
In a clean skillet, pour in the sauce and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add the fried chicken, tossing until every piece is coated in the sticky honey garlic glaze.Garnish and Serve
Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onion. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or as a standalone appetizer.
How to Serve Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
You can serve Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken on a platter as an appetizers for a party, or alongside steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with noodles for an enjoyable dinner option. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top for some added crunch!
How to Store Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a hot skillet for a few minutes to regain some crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
- Make sure to marinate the chicken properly to enhance the flavor.
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for the best frying results.
- If you want extra crunch, double fry the chicken: fry once until golden, let it rest, and then fry again for a few more minutes.
Variation
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used; just make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken goes well with fried rice, steamed vegetables, or noodles, making it versatile for many meal options.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and cook them when ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy it hot and crispy!
