Why make this recipe
Crispy Honey Chicken is a delicious dish that combines the crunch of golden-fried chicken with the sweet and sticky flavor of honey sauce. Many people love this dish because it is easy to make and tastes amazing. It can be served for a family meal, a special occasion, or even a casual dinner with friends. Plus, it can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
How to make Crispy Honey Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for GF)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (or gluten-free cornstarch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for soy-free)
- 1-2 tablespoons water
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Directions:
-
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick well and ensures the chicken becomes crispy instead of steaming.
-
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. This two-bowl setup makes the breading process cleaner and more effective.
-
Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs first, then dredge them in the flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks evenly.
-
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
-
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, and water. Warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is combined and slightly thickened.
-
Place the fried chicken in a large bowl, pour the warm honey sauce over the top, and toss gently until every piece is evenly coated with a shiny glaze. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
How to serve Crispy Honey Chicken
Crispy Honey Chicken can be served hot right after preparation. It goes well with steamed rice or noodles and pairs nicely with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra sesame seeds and green onions on top for a beautiful presentation!
How to store Crispy Honey Chicken
If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven or air fryer to regain its crispiness, as microwaving may make it soggy.
Tips to make Crispy Honey Chicken
- Make sure to pat the chicken pieces dry well; moisture can prevent them from getting crispy.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch; it helps create that perfect crunchy texture.
- Monitor the oil temperature while frying. Too hot can burn the chicken, and too cool can make it greasy.
- If you want more flavor, consider adding spices to the flour mixture, like paprika or onion powder.
Variation
For a spicy kick, add some chili flakes to the honey sauce or use sriracha sauce as a drizzle for a sweet and spicy combination!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken with skin for this recipe?
Yes, but skinless chicken provides a crispier coating since it can fry without excess fat.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Coat the chicken as directed, then place it on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Can I use another type of protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu as alternatives to chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.