This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is tender, crunchy, and coated in a sweet-savory sauce. Quick and flavorful, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or takeout-style meals at home that the whole family will love.
1poundbonelessskinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
½cupcornstarch
½teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoonblack pepper
2tablespoonsvegetable oil
For the Sauce:
¼cuphoney
3tablespoonssoy sauce
2clovesgarlicminced
1teaspoonrice vinegar
½teaspoongingerminced
1teaspooncornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
For Garnish:
Sesame seeds
Chopped green onions
Instructions
Prepare Chicken: Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, salt, and pepper until coated.
Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same pan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry until sauce thickens.
Combine: Add crispy chicken back into the pan, tossing to coat evenly with sauce.
Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Make Ahead: Chicken can be prepped and coated ahead of time; fry just before serving.
Customizing the Flavor: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
Allergy-Friendly Options: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch if needed.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to maintain crispiness.
Keyword Chinese chicken recipe, crunchy chicken, easy weeknight dinner, homemade Chinese chicken, quick stir-fry, sweet garlic chicken