This Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is truly irresistible! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce that’s packed with flavor.
When I make this dish, my family couldn’t be happier. It’s super easy to whip up and pairs perfectly with rice. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually go for boneless, skinless thighs since they stay juicier and tender. Breasts work too, but they can dry out more easily. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use firm tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Cornstarch: This is crucial for getting that crispy coating on the chicken. If you’re out of cornstarch, you can replace it with potato starch or rice flour—both do a great job too!
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness, but agave nectar or maple syrup make great substitutes for a different flavor profile. Just steer clear of using sugar directly, as it behaves differently in sauces.
Soy Sauce: You can use low-sodium soy sauce for less saltiness, or tamari for a gluten-free option. Coconut aminos are also a flavorful alternative if you’re avoiding soy.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture on the chicken is key! Here’s how to ensure success:
- Mix the cornstarch and flour thoroughly with salt and pepper before tossing in the chicken. A well-coated piece makes all the difference.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding chicken. It should sizzle upon contact—this locks in moisture and creates a crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook chicken in batches if necessary. This allows proper browning and avoids steaming the chicken.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have beautifully crispy chicken pieces that just soak up that delicious honey garlic sauce!
Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (light or regular)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. In no time, you’ll have a tasty meal ready for you and your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Coating:
In a medium bowl, mix together the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until they are well coated. This coating will help give your chicken a nice crispiness.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic (and grated ginger if you’re using it). Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant, but be cautious not to let it burn.
4. Combine and Thicken:
Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water to the skillet. Stir everything well to combine, then let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a delicious glaze.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the honey garlic sauce until it’s well coated. Keep cooking for another 1-2 minutes to ensure the sauce sticks to the chicken and becomes wonderfully sticky.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat. Carefully transfer the honey garlic chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot over a generous serving of steamed white rice, and enjoy!
This sweet, sticky, and savory dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick thaw method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat dry before coating it with the flour and cornstarch mixture for the best results.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the honey by 1-2 tablespoons. You can also add a splash of extra soy sauce or rice vinegar to balance the flavors without making it overly sweet.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet and add the sauce until warmed through to keep the chicken crispy.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, but feel free to serve it with fried rice, quinoa, or even noodles. Adding a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables can also enhance the meal!