Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken: Irresistibly Sweet and Savory

Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that transforms your dinner into an exotic feast, perfect for impressing guests.

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Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: Chinese

Keyword: chicken, Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken, easy dinners, fried chicken, honey chicken, quick meals

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 30

Total Time: 50

Servings: servings

Calories: 400kcal

Equipment

large skillet
Mixing bowls
Whisk
tongs
Saucepan
Meat thermometer

Ingredients

For the Chicken

500 g chicken thighs This cut ensures a juicy and tender bite, perfect for frying.
1 large egg Acts as a binder, giving the chicken a nice coating.

For the Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour Key for that golden, crispy texture you'll love.
1 teaspoon salt Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
½ teaspoon black pepper Adds a subtle kick to the batter.
½ teaspoon garlic powder Infuses a savory aroma and taste.

For the Glaze

½ cup honey Provides a delicious sweetness that defines the Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken.
3 tablespoons soy sauce Adds depth and umami to the glaze.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar Delivers a tangy balance to the sweetness.
1 tablespoon sesame oil Gives an aromatic finish that elevates the dish.
2 teaspoons cornstarch Thickens the glaze to stick beautifully to the chicken.

For Frying

cooking oil for frying Choose a neutral oil to fry the chicken to crispy perfection.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Set the chopped chicken aside while you prepare the coating, as this will help the chicken absorb the flavors of the seasoning later on.
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, crack the large egg and whisk it until it’s well beaten and frothy.
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, thoroughly coat the wet chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer.
In a large skillet or frying pan, pour in enough cooking oil to submerge the chicken pieces halfway. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
In a separate saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until it begins to bubble.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture to the bubbling sauce while constantly stirring.
Once the chicken is completely fried and the sauce is thickened, take the crispy chicken pieces and toss them in the saucepan with the glaze.
Plate your Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken and serve it immediately while it's hot and crispy.

Notes

Serve immediately after coating for maximum crunch and flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to 3 months.

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