Plate of crispy Chinese honey chicken garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. This dish combines the crunch of perfectly fried chicken with a sweet and tangy honey sauce that everyone loves. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a comforting weeknight meal. Plus, it’s easy to make!

how to make Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish

Directions:

  1. Cut Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Set Up Breading Station: In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Place the cornstarch in another dish.
  4. Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally coat with cornstarch. Set aside on a plate.
  5. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, cooking until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Fry in batches if necessary.
  7. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels.
  8. Prepare Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. Heat over low flame until warm.
  9. Coat Chicken: Once all chicken pieces are fried, place them in a large bowl and pour the honey sauce over them. Toss to coat evenly.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Following these steps will bring you to perfection with your dish, making it an incredible masterpiece!

how to serve Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken

Serve the Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken hot on a plate. You can pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for an extra touch!

how to store Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat within a few days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until warm. However, be aware that reheating may make the chicken less crispy.

tips to make Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken

  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; this helps to keep the chicken crispy.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; fry in batches if needed.
  • Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your preference.

variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for a nutritious twist. Just sauté them briefly before adding them to the honey chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well and add extra flavor. Just ensure they are boneless and cut into bite-sized pieces.

2. Is there a substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar if you want a different sweetness, but the flavor will change a bit.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to fry it just before serving to keep the chicken crispy. However, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then fry and combine when ready to serve.