Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken

Introduction

Crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying texture. This quick and easy recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy coating and sticky honey garlic sauce make this dish a favorite for both adults and children alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the chicken:
– 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup of cornstarch
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 cup of water (or as needed)
– Vegetable oil for frying

For the honey garlic sauce:
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (for thickening)

Prep Time

The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes. During this time, you can gather all the ingredients, cut the chicken, and prepare the sauce components to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time takes about 20 minutes. This brings the total time to approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. The recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a great option for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they are moisture-free for better crispiness.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot oil in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

In the same pan, remove excess oil but leave a tablespoon. Pour the sauce into the pan and bring it to a simmer. Add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and transfer the honey garlic chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Thighs

Using chicken thighs ensures juicy and tender meat. You can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Note 2: Cornstarch

Cornstarch is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Ensure it is evenly coated on the chicken pieces.

Note 3: Sauce Variations

Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey based on your taste preference.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Note 5: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

Cook techniques

Marinating the Chicken

Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.

Coating the Chicken

Use a combination of cornstarch and flour to coat the chicken evenly, which will help achieve a crispy texture when frying.

Double Frying

Fry the chicken pieces twice for extra crispiness. The first fry cooks the chicken, while the second fry crisps up the coating.

Making the Sauce

Combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar in a pan and cook until thickened, creating a sweet and savory glaze.

Stir-Frying

Stir-fry the cooked chicken in the sauce briefly to coat each piece evenly while keeping the texture crispy.

FAQ

Can I use any type of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breast or thighs depending on your preference; thighs tend to be juicier.

How can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce to the honey-garlic sauce for some heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead and combine them just before serving.

What can I serve with crispy honey garlic chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake it in the oven at a high temperature for a healthier alternative, but it may not be as crispy as fried chicken.

Conclusion

The crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken is not only a delightful dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes but also an excellent option for those seeking a quick yet flavorful meal. Its combination of sweetness and garlic brings out a rich taste that is sure to impress family and friends.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Honey Garlic Shrimp

Try substituting shrimp for chicken in this recipe for a lighter, seafood version that still packs a flavorful punch.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

For a twist, pair the same crispy chicken with a sweet and sour sauce for a different take on a classic favorite.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

Serve the honey garlic chicken alongside a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables to add freshness and crunch to your meal.

Sticky Rice

Accompany the chicken with sticky rice or jasmine rice, allowing the rice to soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce.

Asian Noodle Salad

Consider an Asian noodle salad topped with sesame dressing as a refreshing side dish that complements the richness of the chicken.