Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (30 Minutes) Recipe

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect quick meal when you’re craving a sweet, savory, and crispy bite. This recipe uses tender pieces of chicken, a golden, crispy coating, and a sticky honey garlic sauce that’s both addictive and comforting. It’s a dish that appeals to both adults and kids, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious recipe right at home.

Why This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe Works

This recipe is designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavor or texture. By using bite-sized chicken pieces, the frying time is reduced, ensuring a crispy crust in minutes. The honey garlic sauce adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor, balancing out the richness of the fried chicken. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish will hit the spot every time!

Ingredients for Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-2 inch/2.5-5 cm)
• Oil for frying, enough to fill the skillet 1 inch/2.5 cm deep (use canola or any vegetable oil)

For the Marinade:

• 2 egg whites
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Pinch of salt (or other seasonings of choice)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons honey
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Garnish:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect honey garlic chicken in no time.

1. Get Organized

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to get everything in place:

• Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) to keep the chicken warm between batches.
• Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and if available, place a wire rack on top to help drain any excess oil.
• Mix the sauce ingredients in a medium pot, as the chicken will be added to this later.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. The mixture should be fluffy and well-blended. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for 10-15 minutes while you heat the oil.

3. Heat the Oil

While the chicken is marinating, pour about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of oil into a large skillet or wok. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-360°F (177-182°C). This will take about 10-15 minutes. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dipping a small piece of bread into the oil – if it bubbles and turns golden within a few seconds, it’s ready.

4. Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot oil, one at a time. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which could lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning once until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet. Keep the fried chicken in the preheated oven to stay warm while you cook the remaining batches.

5. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

Once all the chicken is fried, it’s time to prepare the sauce. Place the pot with the sauce ingredients over medium-high heat and bring it to a gentle boil. Cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of water to loosen it up.

6. Combine and Serve

Toss the fried chicken pieces in the honey garlic sauce until they are evenly coated. Transfer to a serving plate and, if desired, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

How to Perfectly Fry the Chicken

• Temperature is Key: Maintaining a steady oil temperature is crucial for perfectly fried chicken. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside while staying undercooked inside. If too cold, it will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, which prevents the chicken from crisping up properly. Fry in small batches and keep the cooked chicken warm in the oven between batches.

How to Make the Perfect Honey Garlic Sauce

The honey garlic sauce should be slightly sticky but not overly thick. Boil the sauce for just 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. If the sauce thickens too much, add a teaspoon of water to adjust the consistency. The balance of sweet honey, salty soy sauce, and garlic creates a delicious, rich coating for the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Honey Garlic Chicken

• Overcooking the Chicken: Frying the chicken for too long can dry it out. Stick to the 3-4 minute guideline, depending on the size of the pieces.
• Overcrowding the Pan: As mentioned, frying too much chicken at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy, greasy results.
• Over-reducing the Sauce: Cooking the honey garlic sauce for too long will make it overly thick or even burn it. Keep an eye on it and remove from heat once it thickens slightly.

Tips for Serving and Garnishing Honey Garlic Chicken

For the best presentation, serve the chicken hot on a large platter. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and texture. You can also serve it over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Substitutes: You can swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option. Simply adjust the frying time as needed.
• Sweetener Alternatives: If you don’t have honey on hand, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave syrup, though the flavor will differ slightly.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.

FAQs about Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both chicken thighs and breasts work well. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts will also give great results.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, for a lighter version, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy, turning halfway through.

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for consistent frying results.
• Let the chicken rest after marinating to allow the flavors to develop.
• For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken pieces for 1-2 minutes after the initial frying.

Conclusion

This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy, making it a go-to for quick weeknight meals or special gatherings. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving it over rice, with stir-fried veggies, or enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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