Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and savory glaze. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a cozy night in. The harmonious blend of honey and garlic creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With simple steps and common ingredients, this dish can be whipped up in no time.
- Irresistible Flavor – The sweet honey combined with garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the chicken perfectly.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve it over rice, toss it with noodles, or enjoy it as a flavorful appetizer.
- Crowd-Pleaser – This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it a great choice for gatherings.
- Customizable Spice Level – Adjust the garlic or add your favorite spices to personalize the flavor to your liking.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels for draining
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok – Essential for frying the chicken evenly and achieving that crispy texture.
- Mixing bowls – Perfect for marinating the chicken and mixing your sauce without mess.
- Whisk – Helps combine ingredients smoothly for both the marinade and sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 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
For the Sauce
- 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)
For Garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, sliced
How to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Allow the mixture to marinate for 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Set this mixture aside while you fry the chicken.
Step 3: 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. Cook each batch for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Glaze the Chicken
In a clean skillet, pour in your prepared sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add in the fried chicken pieces, tossing them gently until every piece is coated in that sticky honey garlic glaze.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your beautifully glazed chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onion for an appealing finish. Serve immediately alongside rice or noodles, or enjoy as a standalone appetizer.
This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is bound to become one of your new favorites! Enjoy its rich flavors while impressing friends and family alike!
How to Serve Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or an appetizer, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle aroma of jasmine rice complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
- Fried Rice: A mix of vegetables and eggs adds texture and richness, making for a hearty meal.
As an Appetizer
- Skewers: Thread pieces of chicken on skewers for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
- Mini Lettuce Wraps: Serve the chicken in lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy bite.
With Noodles
- Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with vegetables provide a satisfying contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Rice Noodles: Light and chewy, they absorb the honey garlic sauce beautifully.
Salad Pairing
- Cabbage Slaw: A refreshing slaw with a tangy dressing balances the sweetness of the chicken.
- Asian Chopped Salad: Incorporate crunchy veggies and sesame dressing for a vibrant side.
How to Perfect Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
To achieve that perfect crunch and flavor in your Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken, follow these essential tips.
- Use High-Quality Oil: Opt for canola or peanut oil for frying. They have high smoke points which help create that crispy texture.
- Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor absorption.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying. This prevents sogginess and ensures crispiness.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Frying in small batches helps maintain oil temperature and allows even cooking.
- Glaze Quickly: Toss the fried chicken in the glaze immediately after frying to keep it crispy while adding flavor.
- Serve Fresh: For best results, serve your dish right after preparation to enjoy maximum crispiness.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Complement your Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken with these delicious side dishes that add variety and balance to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and a slight crunch next to the sweet chicken.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Infused with garlic flavor, this rice dish enhances the overall taste experience.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables provide a fun textural contrast to the chicken.
- Szechuan Green Beans: Spicy green beans bring a bit of heat, balancing out the sweetness of the honey garlic glaze.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a soothing complement to your savory main dish.
- Sesame Noodles: These cold noodles dressed with sesame sauce make for a refreshing side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always allow at least 15–20 minutes for the marinade to work its magic.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in small batches for optimal crispiness.
- Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil can cause uneven cooking and prevent that crispy texture. Ensure there’s enough oil (about 1 inch) in the pan for frying.
- Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking at the wrong temperature can lead to greasy or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is around 350°F (175°C) before frying.
- Rushing the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer properly enhances its flavor. Don’t rush this step; let it bubble gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds and green onions can make your dish look less appealing. These garnishes add flavor and visual appeal, so don’t forget them!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken that might help you.
What is Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken?
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce. It’s perfect for any meal!
How can I customize this recipe?
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli or by adjusting the sweetness of the sauce with more or less honey.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes! You can use boneless skinless breasts or thighs depending on your preference. Both will yield delicious results!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and is great for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions to keep it fresh.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with delightful crunch. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences. Try it out and enjoy every bite!
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a beloved favorite for any occasion. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is quick to prepare and always impresses. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside fresh noodles for a complete meal that your family and friends will adore.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Oil for frying (canola or neutral oil)
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Marinate chicken pieces in a mixture of egg whites, cornstarch, and salt for 15-20 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper; set aside.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry marinated chicken in small batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In a clean skillet, simmer the prepared sauce for 2-3 minutes. Add fried chicken to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onion before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (120g)
- Calories: 292
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
