Name: Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces; Vegetable or canola oil, enough to fill your skillet about 1 inch; 2 egg whites; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Pinch of salt; 4 tablespoons honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Toasted sesame seeds for garnish; Sliced green onions for garnish

Jump to Recipe

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken. It’s the kind of dish that captures all the flavors you adore from your favorite takeout spot, yet you can whip it up in just 30 minutes from the comfort of your own home. I remember the first time I tried making this—my kitchen was filled with the aroma of garlic and honey, and by the time dinner was served, my family couldn’t get enough! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a little something special without the hassle of takeout. And trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it deserves a special spot on your dining table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

If you’re wondering why to add this dish to your rotation, let me share a few highlights. First off, it’s incredibly quick to make—perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. The blend of sweet honey and the boldness of garlic creates an explosion of flavor that kids and adults alike will appreciate. Plus, using chicken thighs or breasts gives you a tender and juicy bite that outshines many takeout options.

Here’s what one home cook had to say about their experience:

“I can’t believe how easy this was to make! The chicken was so crispy and flavorful, and it genuinely felt like dining out.”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s set some expectations. This recipe comes together in a few simple steps and requires basic cooking techniques like breading and frying. You’ll start by preparing your chicken and sauce, then move on to frying until perfectly crispy. Finally, a quick toss in that delicious honey garlic sauce, and voilà—you’re ready to serve!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces (1–2 inches or 2.5–5 cm)
Vegetable or canola oil, enough to fill your skillet about 1 inch (2.5 cm)
2 egg whites
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Pinch of salt
4 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced (use 3 for a stronger garlic flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Sliced green onions for garnish

For a healthier touch, you might consider swapping the oil for a frying alternative, or even baking the chicken for a lighter version!

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) to keep your chicken warm while you fry the batches.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If you have a rack, place it inside—this helps the chicken stay crispy.
In a saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients—honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Set aside for later.
Heat oil in a skillet until hot enough for frying (around 350°F/175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
Dip each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, then coat with the cornstarch.
Fry the chicken pieces in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy. About 4-5 minutes per batch.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to the baking sheet in the oven while you finish the rest.
After frying, toss the crispy chicken in the prepared sauce until well coated.
Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Best Way to Serve

This crispy chicken is undoubtedly a star on its own, but don’t hesitate to elevate your meal further! Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, or alongside steamed broccoli for a complete and colorful plate. You could also pair it with crispy vegetable spring rolls or a fresh cabbage salad for that extra crunch.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, might be hard to come by), storing them is a cinch. Place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a hot oven for a few minutes to regain that coveted crispiness. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it, but for best results, consume it fresh.

Pro Chef Tips

To get the crispiest texture, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good way to test is by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go!
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches to maintain that crispy texture.
Consider adding a dash of chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick!

Creative Twists

Want to switch things up a bit? Try using a different protein such as shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version. You could even add different spices—ginger complements the garlic nicely, or for a tangy twist, toss in some fresh lime juice just before serving.

FAQ

How long does the prep take?
Preparation takes about 10-15 minutes, making this a quick meal option.

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure it crisps up nicely.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The oven is best for reheating to maintain that crunch, but you can use a microwave if short on time—just note that the chicken won’t be as crispy.

Enjoy your culinary adventure making this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken; trust me, you’ll feel like a pro in your own kitchen!