This Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a perfect mix of sweet and savory. It’s made with tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky, delicious honey garlic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this dish because they stay juicy and tender. If you only have chicken breasts, they’ll work too! For a lighter option, you can use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Flour and Cornstarch: This combo is crucial for achieving the crispy coating on the chicken. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free all-purpose flour and cornstarch. It yields a similar texture without the gluten!
Honey: The honey gives this dish its signature sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be used as substitutes. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
Soy Sauce: I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish balanced in flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, go for tamari sauce. It’s a great alternative that adds a similar umami richness.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Fried?
Frying chicken can be a little tricky, but don’t worry! Here’s how to get crispy, golden-brown pieces every time:
- Oil temperature: Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C). A kitchen thermometer is a great investment to ensure the right temperature!
- Batch frying: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches allows each piece to get enough heat and crisp up nicely. If the oil cools down too much, the chicken will become soggy.
- Draining: After frying, place the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. This helps keep it crispy!
With these tips and ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken that everyone will love!
Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup cold water
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For Serving:
- Cooked jasmine or white rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until you have a smooth batter that’s thick but pourable.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces into the batter, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to thicken up a bit.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or wok, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot, about 350°F (175°C), for perfect frying!
4. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the Sauce:
In a clean skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
6. Add the Sauce Ingredients:
Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of spice). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce is thick and glossy.
8. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and toss well to coat each piece evenly in that delicious honey garlic glaze.
9. Serve:
Serve the honey garlic chicken over cooked rice. Top it with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a perfect finish!
10. Enjoy!
Now dig in and enjoy your sweet, sticky, and utterly delicious Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken!
This dish showcases crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious, glossy honey garlic sauce, beautifully served over a fluffy bed of white rice, and garnished with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds, just like in that enticing picture!🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before coating with the batter for better crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be used as substitutes for honey. Just be aware that these alternatives will slightly alter the flavor, but they will still offer a delicious sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftover Honey Garlic Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to help retain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or include sliced fresh chili peppers when sautéing the garlic. Adjust to your spice preference for a flavorful kick!