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Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken

crispy chinese honey chicken - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy battered chicken coated in a sticky, sweet honey glaze with a hint of ginger and garlic, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg, beaten (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (canola or peanut oil preferred)
  • 1/3 cup honey (raw or wildflower recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken glaze)
  • Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
  • Thinly sliced green onions (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, beat the egg with cold water until combined.
  4. Slowly pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring gently until smooth and thick batter forms.
  5. Dip each chicken piece into the batter, coating fully and letting excess drip off.
  6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  8. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  9. Mix cornstarch with water and slowly add to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until thick and glossy (1-2 minutes). Remove from heat.
  10. Toss fried chicken in a large bowl with the warm honey glaze until evenly coated.
  11. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F for best crispiness. Dry chicken pieces before battering. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Toss chicken in warm glaze immediately to maintain crunch. Double-frying can increase crispiness. For gluten-free, substitute flour and soy sauce accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken, honey chicken, Chinese recipe, sweet glaze, fried chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food