Name: Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
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 for extra garlicky flavor); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste); Toasted sesame seeds; 1 green onion, sliced

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why make this recipe

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, as it satisfies both adults and kids alike. The crispy texture of the chicken, combined with the sticky honey garlic glaze, creates a tasty experience. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, ensuring you enjoy this tasty dish whenever you want.

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 egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Set 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 chicken in small batches for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain 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 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 this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside steaming hot noodles. It also works well as a tasty appetizer at parties. Just place the crispy chicken on a platter, and let your guests dig in!

how to store Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat until warmed through to maintain its crispiness.

tips to make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that crispiness.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying; fry in small batches.
For extra crunch, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg and cornstarch mixture twice.

variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for added color and nutrition. Simply stir-fry them in the glaze before tossing in the chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They will work just as well, but thighs tend to be juicier.

2. What can I use instead of honey?
If you prefer, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as an alternative to honey.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) in place of regular soy sauce to make it gluten-free.