Introduction
There is something comforting about crispy chicken. When it is paired with a sticky sweet garlic sauce, it becomes even better. That is exactly what this easy crispy garlic honey chicken delivers. It is a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to make at home. Whether you are cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or trying to impress guests on the weekend, this recipe will never let you down.
Crispy garlic honey chicken is the perfect combination of textures and flavors. You get that crunchy coating from the fried chicken, followed by a sweet and savory garlic honey glaze that clings to every bite. It is satisfying and indulgent without being too heavy. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You do not need any complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few pantry staples and a little bit of love are all it takes to create something amazing.
This dish is also extremely versatile. It goes well with rice, noodles, vegetables, or even as a filling for wraps. Plus, you can tweak the flavor to your liking. Make it spicy, make it tangy, or keep it sweet. The possibilities are endless. If you love dishes that are big on flavor but easy on effort, this recipe is for you.
Ingredients Needed
To make this crispy garlic honey chicken, you will need a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. These ingredients work together to create a balance of crispy texture and rich, flavorful sauce that is both comforting and crave-worthy.
Here is everything you need to get started.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs or breasts | 1 lb (cut into chunks) | 680 |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup | 240 |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup | 110 |
| Eggs | 2 | 140 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | 18 |
| Honey | ⅓ cup | 340 |
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup | 30 |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon | 5 |
| Oil (for frying) | About 1 to 2 cups | ~400 (absorbed) |
| Green onions or sesame seeds (optional) | For garnish | Minimal |
This recipe makes about four servings. You can double the ingredients if you are cooking for a larger group.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preparing the chicken. Cut it into bite-sized chunks. You can use chicken thighs for juicier results or chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. Once your chicken is prepped, season it with salt and pepper. This helps to build flavor right from the beginning.
Next, set up your breading station. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix the cornstarch and all-purpose flour together. This combination gives the chicken that crispy exterior that holds up even after it is coated in sauce.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it evenly in the flour and cornstarch mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken slightly to help it stick. This will ensure that the chicken crisps up beautifully when fried.
Heat your oil in a large pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat. You do not need a deep fryer for this. Just make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. You can test this by dropping in a small piece of batter. If it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready. Fry the chicken in batches so the pan does not get overcrowded. Cook each batch for about four to five minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Now it is time to make the garlic honey sauce. In a clean pan, add a little oil and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat. Let it cook until it becomes fragrant but not burned. Add the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together and let it simmer for two to three minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly and become glossy.
Toss the fried chicken into the pan with the sauce. Stir until all the pieces are well coated and sticky. The sauce will cling to the crispy coating and add that irresistible flavor.
Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for a touch of freshness and crunch. Serve immediately while it is still hot and crispy.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This recipe is very flexible and can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some helpful tips to make it your own.
If you love heat, add some red pepper flakes, chili paste, or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic honey glaze. This will give your chicken a spicy twist that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey.
For a gluten-free version, swap the flour and soy sauce for gluten-free alternatives. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, so no changes needed there.
You can also use other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option. Just follow the same breading and frying process.
Want to avoid frying? You can cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer or bake it in the oven. It will not be quite as crispy as frying, but it will still taste amazing and be a bit lighter.
To make it healthier, you can reduce the honey slightly or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup. The sauce will still be delicious with a lower sugar content.
Nutritional Information
Here is a general idea of the nutritional breakdown per serving. Please note that values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 490 to 520 kcal |
| Protein | 25 to 30 grams |
| Fat | 20 to 25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 to 50 grams |
| Sugar | 20 to 25 grams |
| Sodium | 700 to 800 mg |
This dish offers a good amount of protein and flavor, making it a satisfying meal. You can balance it out further by adding steamed vegetables or a light soup on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy garlic honey chicken is extremely versatile when it comes to serving options. The most popular way is to serve it over a bed of warm white rice or jasmine rice. The sauce soaks into the rice and makes every bite more flavorful.
You can also pair it with stir-fried noodles or plain lo mein for an Asian-inspired plate. Add in some steamed broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Another great way to enjoy this dish is by using it as a filling for lettuce wraps. It turns into a fun and low-carb option that is great for gatherings or meal prep.
If you are serving it for guests, consider making a platter with sides like cucumber salad, spring rolls, or miso soup. The crispiness of the chicken pairs well with lighter, fresher sides.
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Conclusion
Easy crispy garlic honey chicken is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes. It is quick, flavorful, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can create a meal that tastes like restaurant-quality food at home.
Whether you are making dinner for your family or just treating yourself to something special, this dish will not disappoint. Its golden crispy texture, sweet and savory glaze, and satisfying bite make it one of those recipes you will want to make again and again.
So grab your ingredients, heat up that pan, and enjoy a plate of delicious crispy garlic honey chicken tonight.