Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken for Your Next Meal!

Name: Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken for Your Next Meal!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, minced; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Posted on July 24, 2025

LUNCH & DINNER IDEAS

Introduction to Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s why I absolutely adore this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken! It’s not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings smiles to the dinner table. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe is a quick solution for those hectic weeknights. Plus, it’s simple enough to impress your loved ones on special occasions. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are simply irresistible, with a sweet and savory sauce that clings to each crispy bite. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it the perfect family meal. You’ll love how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home!

Ingredients for Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken a success. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy frying.
Cornstarch: This is your secret weapon for achieving that irresistible crispiness.
All-purpose flour: Helps create a light coating that complements the cornstarch.

Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the chicken’s flavor.
Honey: Adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
Soy sauce: Provides a rich umami flavor, making the sauce truly irresistible.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant kick to the sauce.
Ginger: Adds warmth and depth, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it has a high smoke point, perfect for achieving that golden brown color.

Sesame seeds: Optional, but they add a lovely crunch and visual appeal when garnishing.
Chopped green onions: Fresh and vibrant, they provide a pop of color and flavor as a garnish.

For those looking to customize, feel free to swap chicken breast for thighs for a richer taste. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey. If you’re gluten-free, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well. The exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

Start by mixing the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This mixture is your golden ticket to crispy chicken. The cornstarch is key here; it creates that delightful crunch we all love. Make sure it’s well combined, so every piece of chicken gets an even coating.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Take your bite-sized chicken pieces and toss them in the flour mixture. I like to do this in batches to ensure each piece is well-coated. The coating should stick nicely, creating a lovely layer that will fry up beautifully. Don’t be shy—get your hands in there and make sure every piece is covered!

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, but not so much that it splashes everywhere. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and crispy. The aroma will be heavenly, trust me!

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is frying, let’s whip up that irresistible honey garlic sauce. In a separate saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Cook this mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until everything is well combined. The sauce should be thick and fragrant, making your mouth water!

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your chicken is perfectly crispy, it’s time to bring it all together. Carefully add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the honey garlic sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece is coated in that sweet and savory goodness. This is where the magic happens!

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Now for the best part—serving! Transfer your crispy chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that extra flair. Serve it hot, and watch your family’s eyes light up. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Tips for Success

For extra crispiness, consider double frying the chicken. It makes a world of difference!

Let the chicken rest for a minute after frying to maintain its crunch.
Adjust the honey in the sauce to suit your family’s taste preferences.
Use a thermometer to check oil temperature; it should be around 350°F for perfect frying.

Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; it helps achieve that golden brown color.

Equipment Needed

Frying pan: A large skillet works well; a deep fryer is great for extra crispiness.

Mixing bowls: Use these for coating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the chicken from the oil.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurate ingredient portions.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a delicious plant-based version.
Sweet and Sour: Mix in some pineapple chunks with the sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the sauce for an aromatic touch.
Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a keto-friendly option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken with fluffy steamed rice for a comforting meal.

Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.
A chilled cucumber salad adds a refreshing crunch.
For drinks, try a light jasmine tea or a crisp white wine.

FAQs about Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Can I make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Just fry the chicken and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and toss it in the sauce for that fresh, crispy texture.

What can I serve with Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal. A light salad or some spring rolls would complement it nicely too!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a hot skillet for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments of joy and connection around the dinner table. The sweet and savory flavors dance together, making every bite a delightful experience. I love how this dish transforms a busy weeknight into something special, bringing smiles to my family’s faces. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventure!