Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken Flavorful Delight

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Are you ready to savor a dish that screams flavor? Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is your ticket to a tasty meal that delights your taste buds. In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating this crispy, sweet, and savory dish right in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, you’ll impress everyone with this easy recipe. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Explosion: This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the savory notes of garlic and soy sauce, creating an irresistible flavor combination.
  2. Crispy Texture: The batter made from flour and cornstarch ensures each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy, providing a delightful crunch in every bite.
  3. Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a quick meal solution.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of sweetness or add spice to suit your taste, making this recipe versatile for any palate.

Ingredients

Chicken and Batter Ingredients

  • 500g boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup cold water

Cooking and Sauce Ingredients

  • Oil, for frying
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

When making crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken, the right ingredients are key. I use boneless chicken thighs for tenderness and juiciness. The batter combines flour and cornstarch. This mix makes the chicken crispy. Baking powder adds lift, while salt and pepper enhance taste.

For the sauce, I use fresh garlic. It gives a strong flavor. Honey adds sweetness, making the dish sticky and delicious. Soy sauce brings in a savory note. Grated ginger adds warmth, while apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness.

Garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds gives color and crunch. Each ingredient plays a role in this tasty dish. You’ll love how they all come together!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

To start, gather your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, mix:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Now, in another bowl, whisk together one large egg and 1/2 cup of cold water. This will be your batter. Slowly add the dry mixture to the egg mix. Whisk until smooth. This batter is key for a crispy finish.

Cooking the Chicken

Next, heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the chicken. Dip each piece of chicken into the batter. Shake off any extra batter. Carefully drop the chicken into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels.

Making the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a separate saucepan, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. SautΓ© this over medium heat until it becomes fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds. Then, stir in:

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken for about 3 to 4 minutes. This sauce gives the chicken its sweet and tangy flavor.

Final Assembly

Now, it’s time for the fun part. Add the crispy chicken pieces into the honey garlic sauce. Toss everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute. This resting time helps the flavors meld together. Enjoy your delicious crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Extra Crispy Chicken

To get that perfect crunch, the frying method is key. I recommend using deep frying. This way, the chicken cooks evenly. Use enough oil to fully submerge the pieces. It helps them get crispy all around.

For the batter, keep it thick but pourable. A good rule is to mix one cup of flour with half a cup of cornstarch. Add a teaspoon of baking powder, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk in one egg and half a cup of cold water to make it smooth. The cold water helps the batter cling to the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

When serving, pair the chicken with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried veggies. These sides complement the sweet and savory flavors well. For a pretty display, use a large platter. Arrange the chicken neatly and sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. This makes the dish pop!

Cooking Safety Tips

Frying can be safe if you follow some simple rules. First, make sure to use a deep skillet and keep a lid nearby. If the oil splatters, cover it quickly. Always keep the oil at a steady medium-high heat. This helps avoid greasy chicken.

Don’t overcrowd the pan with chicken. Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady. This way, you avoid soggy chicken. Lastly, always let the fried chicken drain on paper towels. It removes excess oil, keeping it crispy.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Cold Water: Using cold water in your batter helps create a light and crispy texture. Warm water can make the batter too thick and heavy.
  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken pieces in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure they cook evenly, resulting in a crispier coating.
  3. Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by adding more honey or soy sauce to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Rest the Chicken: Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying and before adding it to the sauce. This helps retain its crispiness.

Variations

Healthier Options

You can make this dish healthier by using low-sodium soy sauce. This keeps the flavor but cuts back on salt. You can also swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend. This way, gluten-sensitive friends can enjoy the meal too.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to kick up the flavor? Add a splash of sesame oil for a nutty taste. If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also toss in colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli. These add crunch and nutrients, making the dish even better.

Other Cooking Methods

Baking is a great alternative to frying. It reduces oil and calories. To bake, coat the chicken in the batter and place it on a baking sheet. Bake at 400Β°F for about 25 minutes, turning halfway.

If you own an air fryer, use it! Preheat the air fryer to 375Β°F. Arrange the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 12-15 minutes. This method keeps the chicken crispy without all the oil.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken, let the leftovers cool. Place them in a shallow container. This helps them cool quickly and evenly. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This simple practice keeps your chicken tasty for later meals.

Reheating Suggestions

To reheat without losing that crispy texture, use an oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. If using an air fryer, set it to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes. This way, the chicken stays crispy and delicious.

Freezing Options

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the chicken. Place cooled pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for a couple of hours until firm. Then, transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer bag. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above to enjoy crispy chicken again.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast. It will give a leaner taste. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. They also hold up better when frying. If you use breast, be careful not to overcook it.

How do I make the batter stick better to the chicken?

To make the batter stick, dry the chicken pieces first. Pat them with paper towels. This helps the batter cling well. You can also dip the chicken in flour before the batter. This extra layer helps it stick.

What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave syrup. Both will give a sweet flavor. If you want a less sweet option, try brown sugar mixed with water. It won’t taste exactly the same but will still be good.

How long can I store the crispy chicken in the fridge?

You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container. It will lose some crispiness, but it’s still tasty. You can reheat it in the oven to get it crispy again.

Is it possible to make this dish in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and batter ahead of time. Keep them separate in the fridge. Fry the chicken just before serving for the best texture. You can also make the sauce ahead. Just heat it before tossing with the chicken.

You learned how to make crispy honey garlic chicken with simple steps and ingredients. We covered how to prep the chicken, fry it, and make a tasty sauce. Remember, tips for extra crispiness and serving ideas can elevate your dish. You can even switch things up with healthier options or other cooking methods. Enjoy this meal fresh, or store leftovers wisely. With practice, you’ll impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. Dive in and have fun experimenting in the kitche

- 500g boneless chicken thighs - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 large egg - 1/2 cup cold water - Oil, for frying - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1/2 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - Green onions for garnish - Sesame seeds for garnish When making crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken, the right ingredients are key. I use boneless chicken thighs for tenderness and juiciness. The batter combines flour and cornstarch. This mix makes the chicken crispy. Baking powder adds lift, while salt and pepper enhance taste. For the sauce, I use fresh garlic. It gives a strong flavor. Honey adds sweetness, making the dish sticky and delicious. Soy sauce brings in a savory note. Grated ginger adds warmth, while apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness. Garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds gives color and crunch. Each ingredient plays a role in this tasty dish. You’ll love how they all come together! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, gather your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, mix: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Now, in another bowl, whisk together one large egg and 1/2 cup of cold water. This will be your batter. Slowly add the dry mixture to the egg mix. Whisk until smooth. This batter is key for a crispy finish. Next, heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the chicken. Dip each piece of chicken into the batter. Shake off any extra batter. Carefully drop the chicken into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels. In a separate saucepan, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. SautΓ© this over medium heat until it becomes fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds. Then, stir in: - 1/2 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken for about 3 to 4 minutes. This sauce gives the chicken its sweet and tangy flavor. Now, it’s time for the fun part. Add the crispy chicken pieces into the honey garlic sauce. Toss everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute. This resting time helps the flavors meld together. Enjoy your delicious crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken! To get that perfect crunch, the frying method is key. I recommend using deep frying. This way, the chicken cooks evenly. Use enough oil to fully submerge the pieces. It helps them get crispy all around. For the batter, keep it thick but pourable. A good rule is to mix one cup of flour with half a cup of cornstarch. Add a teaspoon of baking powder, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk in one egg and half a cup of cold water to make it smooth. The cold water helps the batter cling to the chicken. When serving, pair the chicken with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried veggies. These sides complement the sweet and savory flavors well. For a pretty display, use a large platter. Arrange the chicken neatly and sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. This makes the dish pop! Frying can be safe if you follow some simple rules. First, make sure to use a deep skillet and keep a lid nearby. If the oil splatters, cover it quickly. Always keep the oil at a steady medium-high heat. This helps avoid greasy chicken. Don’t overcrowd the pan with chicken. Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady. This way, you avoid soggy chicken. Lastly, always let the fried chicken drain on paper towels. It removes excess oil, keeping it crispy. Pro Tips Use Cold Water: Using cold water in your batter helps create a light and crispy texture. Warm water can make the batter too thick and heavy. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken pieces in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure they cook evenly, resulting in a crispier coating. Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by adding more honey or soy sauce to suit your taste preferences. Rest the Chicken: Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying and before adding it to the sauce. This helps retain its crispiness. {{image_2}} You can make this dish healthier by using low-sodium soy sauce. This keeps the flavor but cuts back on salt. You can also swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend. This way, gluten-sensitive friends can enjoy the meal too. Want to kick up the flavor? Add a splash of sesame oil for a nutty taste. If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also toss in colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli. These add crunch and nutrients, making the dish even better. Baking is a great alternative to frying. It reduces oil and calories. To bake, coat the chicken in the batter and place it on a baking sheet. Bake at 400Β°F for about 25 minutes, turning halfway. If you own an air fryer, use it! Preheat the air fryer to 375Β°F. Arrange the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 12-15 minutes. This method keeps the chicken crispy without all the oil. After enjoying your crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken, let the leftovers cool. Place them in a shallow container. This helps them cool quickly and evenly. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This simple practice keeps your chicken tasty for later meals. To reheat without losing that crispy texture, use an oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. If using an air fryer, set it to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes. This way, the chicken stays crispy and delicious. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the chicken. Place cooled pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for a couple of hours until firm. Then, transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer bag. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above to enjoy crispy chicken again. Yes, you can use chicken breast. It will give a leaner taste. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. They also hold up better when frying. If you use breast, be careful not to overcook it. To make the batter stick, dry the chicken pieces first. Pat them with paper towels. This helps the batter cling well. You can also dip the chicken in flour before the batter. This extra layer helps it stick. You can use maple syrup or agave syrup. Both will give a sweet flavor. If you want a less sweet option, try brown sugar mixed with water. It won't taste exactly the same but will still be good. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container. It will lose some crispiness, but it's still tasty. You can reheat it in the oven to get it crispy again. You can prepare the chicken and batter ahead of time. Keep them separate in the fridge. Fry the chicken just before serving for the best texture. You can also make the sauce ahead. Just heat it before tossing with the chicken. You learned how to make crispy honey garlic chicken with simple steps and ingredients. We covered how to prep the chicken, fry it, and make a tasty sauce. Remember, tips for extra crispiness and serving ideas can elevate your dish. You can even switch things up with healthier options or other cooking methods. Enjoy this meal fresh, or store leftovers wisely. With practice, you'll impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. Dive in and have fun experimenting in the kitchen!

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

A delicious and crispy chicken dish coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
Β Β 

  • 500 g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup cold water
  • to taste Oil for frying
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup honey
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 pieces green onions, finely sliced for garnish
  • to taste Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
Β 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  • In another bowl, whisk the egg and add cold water to create a batter. Slowly add the dry mixture to the egg mixture, whisking until smooth.
  • Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Dip the chicken pieces into the batter and shake off any excess.
  • Carefully drop the chicken pieces into hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • In a separate saucepan over medium heat, add minced garlic and sautΓ© until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  • Stir in honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken for about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the crispy chicken pieces into the sauce, tossing well to coat evenly.
  • Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute for flavors to meld.

Notes

Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Keyword Asian, chicken, crispy, honey garlic

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