Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home. Its crispy texture and sticky honey coating make it a favorite among kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s simple to make and uses easy-to-find ingredients.
How to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken Pieces:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
Batter Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup cold water
Honey Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken Pieces: Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Gradually add the cold water and whisk until smooth.
- Coat the Chicken in Batter: Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Fry the Chicken Until Crispy: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces and fry until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.
- Prepare the Honey Sauce: In a small pot, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Heat over low heat until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss the Fried Chicken in the Honey Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the fried chicken with the honey sauce, tossing to ensure all pieces are well coated.
- Serve with Steamed Rice or as an Appetizer: Enjoy your delicious crispy honey chicken!
How to Serve Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken
Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken can be served in several ways. For a complete meal, serve it over steamed rice and add some vegetables on the side. Alternatively, you can present it as an appetizer, garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.
How to Store Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken
Leftover crispy Chinese honey chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve maximum crunchiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry in batches for even cooking.
- If you want a thicker honey sauce, cook it a little longer on low heat until it reduces.
Variation
For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the honey sauce. You can also use boneless thighs or tofu for a different take on this recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
2. Is this dish spicy?
No, the standard recipe is not spicy. However, you can add chili sauce for some heat if you prefer.
3. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.