Description
A quick and crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe ready in just 30 minutes! Golden fried chicken tossed in a sweet and savory garlic sauce—perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or easy homemade takeout.
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)
Optional Garnish:
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Instructions
-
Prepare the Batter:
In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, mix the egg and cold water. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients to make a smooth batter. -
Coat the Chicken:
Add chicken pieces to the batter and coat thoroughly. -
Fry the Chicken:
Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels. -
Make the Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, water, vinegar, brown sugar, and garlic. Simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook until slightly thickened, about 1–2 minutes. -
Toss and Serve:
Combine fried chicken and sauce in a bowl or pan. Toss to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve immediately
Notes
-
Spicy Variation: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
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Baking Option: Bake battered chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
-
Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
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Air Fryer Method: Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for best crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: frying
- Cuisine: chinese-american
Keywords: crispy honey garlic chicken Chinese honey garlic chicken 30-minute chicken recipe takeout-style chicken easy fried chicken recipe