Easy Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (30 Minutes) Recipe

A Quick and Flavorful Takeout-Style Dish at Home

This Easy Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe brings the irresistible flavors of your favorite takeout straight to your kitchen—in just 30 minutes. With golden, crispy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet-savory garlic sauce, it’s a dish that checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, and family-approved.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving that signature crunch and glossy glaze of Chinese honey garlic chicken, but don’t want to spend hours cooking, this recipe is your go-to. The secret lies in the light batter that crisps up beautifully in just minutes, while the honey garlic sauce delivers that classic, lip-smacking taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, quick weekend meals, or impressing guests without the stress.

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry, for thickening)

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the cold water. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring to form a smooth batter.

2. Coat the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the batter and toss to coat evenly.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat (around 350°F/175°C). Fry the battered chicken in batches, 3–4 minutes per batch, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, water, vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir and bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens slightly (1–2 minutes).

5. Toss and Serve

Add the crispy chicken to the pan or a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

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Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
• Baked Version: Instead of deep-frying, bake the battered chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari in place of soy sauce.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook battered chicken in the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

Storage:
Store leftover honey garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For best texture, avoid microwaving as it may soften the crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for juicy results, but chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner option.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes. You can prepare the honey garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before tossing with the chicken.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after tossing it in sauce?

Serve immediately after saucing. For maximum crispiness, drizzle sauce over the chicken instead of tossing, or serve sauce on the side.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Just ensure you fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and soggy results.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?

It pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, fried rice, stir-fried veggies, or noodles.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

While possible, using fresh, battered chicken yields the best texture and flavor. Pre-cooked chicken won’t develop the same crispy crust.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! It’s sweet, mild, and usually a hit with children. You can omit pepper for extra sensitivity.

What oil should I use for frying?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

How can I make this lower in sugar?

Reduce the honey and brown sugar by half and balance the flavors with more garlic and soy sauce.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, but it may lose its crispiness upon reheating. Freeze in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.

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Conclusion

This Easy Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a delicious solution for weeknight meals or casual entertaining. With its perfect balance of sweetness and savory garlic flavor, combined with that golden crunch, it rivals any restaurant version—and comes together in just 30 minutes. Give it a try, and it just might become your new favorite homemade takeout dish.

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