Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Are you craving a delicious and crispy chicken dish with a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy sauce? Look no further than this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or serving at a special occasion, this dish combines the irresistible crunch of crispy chicken with the rich flavors of honey and garlic, creating a savory meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: crispy fried chicken coated in a rich, sweet honey garlic sauce. It’s a fusion of Chinese takeout favorites and homemade goodness. Here’s why this dish will become a regular on your dinner table:

• Crispy Texture: The crispy chicken is perfectly fried, providing a delightful crunch with every bite.
• Perfect Sauce: The honey garlic sauce is a balance of sweet, savory, and a little bit of heat, elevating the flavor of the chicken.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, this recipe is great for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Ingredients for Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

For the chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup cold water
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the honey garlic sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

How to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and baking powder. This dry mixture will create the crispy coating.
2. In another bowl, whisk the egg and cold water together to form a batter.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the batter and coat evenly, then transfer to the dry flour mixture and coat thoroughly. Set the coated chicken aside.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. To test the oil temperature, drop a small piece of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the chicken pieces in batches, cooking them for 4-5 minutes per batch or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add the cornstarch-water mixture to thicken. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken with Sauce

1. Once the sauce is ready, add the crispy chicken pieces into the saucepan and toss to coat the chicken evenly with the honey garlic sauce.
2. Stir gently to make sure every piece of chicken is covered in the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve your Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. You can pair this dish with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or even a side of fried noodles.

Tips for Success

• Crispy Chicken: To ensure a crispy coating, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry the chicken in small batches.
• Honey Quality: The quality of the honey plays a key role in the flavor of the sauce. Choose pure honey for the best results.
• Make it Spicy: If you prefer a bit of spice, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect dish to serve for dinner or impress your friends at a dinner party. With its crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and flavorful honey garlic sauce, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.

Serving and Storage Tips for Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Serving Tips

1. Garnishes: Add extra flavor and color by garnishing your crispy chicken with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions. These toppings enhance both the visual appeal and the taste of the dish.
2. Side Dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
   • Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce.
   • Stir-fried vegetables, like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, for a balanced meal.
   • Chinese-style noodles or lo mein for a more filling option.
3. Dipping Sauces: Serve with additional dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Serving Style: Serve the chicken in a large family-style platter, or for individual servings, plate each portion with rice or noodles on the side.

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Storage Tips

1. Storing Leftovers:
   • If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the chicken will stay flavorful, it may lose its crispy texture due to the sauce.
2. Reheating Leftovers:
   • To maintain the crispiness of the chicken when reheating, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. You can also use an air fryer for 5-7 minutes to help restore the crispness.
   • If you’re short on time, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave, but it may soften the crispy exterior. For best results, reheat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
3. Freezing:
   • Freezing the Chicken: If you want to store the chicken for a longer period, you can freeze the crispy chicken before coating it in the honey garlic sauce. Arrange the fried chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
   • Reheating from Frozen: To reheat, bake the frozen chicken pieces at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Then, coat them with the fresh honey garlic sauce.
4. Storing the Sauce:
   • You can store the honey garlic sauce separately in a jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you’re freezing the chicken, you can freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken for multiple meals, whether fresh or reheated!

1. Can I make the sauce spicier?

Yes! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also add a dash of chili oil or sriracha for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference, and taste the sauce before adding more heat.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer a juicier and more flavorful cut of meat. They will stay tender and juicy even after frying. Just ensure the thighs are boneless and skinless for easier preparation.

3. How can I make the chicken gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour (like rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend). Be sure to check that your soy sauce is gluten-free, or use tamari as a gluten-free alternative.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare some components in advance. You can coat the chicken pieces with the batter and flour mixture a few hours before frying, and store them in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Fry the chicken just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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