Chinese Honey Chicken is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that features crispy, golden-fried chicken pieces coated in a sticky honey glaze. This popular takeout favorite combines tender chicken with the rich flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and honey for a perfect balance of sweet and salty. The crispy chicken is stir-fried and then tossed in the glossy sauce, making each bite a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Served with steamed rice or vegetables, Chinese Honey Chicken is an irresistible meal that’s both easy to make at home and sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup cold water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening the sauce)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, beaten egg, and cold water to create a smooth batter. Dip the chicken pieces into the batter, coating them evenly.
- Fry the chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the battered chicken pieces in batches for 4-5 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Toss the chicken: Add the crispy chicken pieces to the sauce, tossing to coat them evenly.
- Serve: Serve the Chinese Honey Chicken over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
This Chinese Honey Chicken is a perfect blend of crispy texture and sweet, savory flavors, making it a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a satisfying homemade meal!