The moment this chicken hits the hot oil, the edges crisp up and the kitchen fills with a savory garlic aroma that makes the wait totally worth it.
I love making this on a weeknight when I want something feel special without a lot of fuss, or for a relaxed weekend dinner with extra sauce for dipping.
SaveOne bite of the crackling crust and sticky sweet glaze and you will know why this dish is a repeat favorite in our house.
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken and coating
Honey garlic sauce
Instructions
- Prep the chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then in a medium bowl combine them with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let sit for a few minutes while you prepare the coating.
- Make the batter
In a separate bowl whisk the egg, cornstarch, flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. Add the chicken and toss gently until every piece is lightly coated.
- Heat the oil
Pour about half an inch of oil into a wide skillet or wok and heat over medium high heat until shimmering. You can test by flicking a tiny bit of batter; it should sizzle vigorously.
- Fry the chicken
Working in small batches so the oil stays hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Fry until the edges are golden and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes per side, then transfer to a wire rack or paper towel lined plate.
- Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and water. In a separate tiny bowl dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water to make a slurry.
- Cook the garlic
In the same skillet, add a little extra oil if needed, then add the minced garlic over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer the sauce
Pour the honey garlic mixture into the pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir for another minute until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
- Coat the chicken
Add the crispy chicken to the pan and toss gently until every piece is covered in the shiny sauce. Cook for about one minute so the flavors meld and the chicken stays crisp.
- Finish and garnish
Drizzle with a little toasted sesame oil if you like, then sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and sliced scallions.
- Serve hot
Transfer to a serving platter, provide extra sauce on the side, and enjoy the contrast of crisp crust and sticky sweet glaze right away.
Substitutions and variations
- Use chicken breast instead of thighs if you prefer a leaner cut, and slice it into even pieces.
- Swap honey for agave syrup or brown sugar if you need a vegan or different sweet note.
- Use gluten free soy sauce and cornstarch for a gluten free version.
- Add a tablespoon of rice wine or dry sherry to the sauce for extra depth.
Chloe's tips
- Pat the chicken very dry before battering for the crispiest results.
- Do not crowd the pan when frying; work in batches to maintain oil temperature.
- Keep the sauce simmering while you add the chicken so it stays glossy and sticks well.
- Toss gently to avoid breaking the crispy coating.
How to store it
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a hot skillet to help restore some crispness rather than the microwave.
Serving suggestions
Serve this glossy chicken over steamed rice or noodles, and let everyone drizzle on extra sauce.
- Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
- Quick stir fried vegetables like bok choy or snap peas
- Sliced cucumber and carrot salad with rice vinegar dressing
Frequently asked questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, use breast cut into bite sized pieces and watch the cook time closely so it stays juicy.
How do I keep the chicken crispy after saucing?
Toss it gently and serve right away, and avoid covering the pan which can steam the crust.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Fry and sauce ahead, then reheat briefly in a hot skillet just before serving to refresh the texture.
What is a good gluten free alternative?
Use gluten free soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is labeled gluten free.
Let's get cooking!
This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is quick to whip up and bursting with that addictive sweet garlic crunch you are craving. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the kind of cozy, crowd pleasing dinner that becomes a new family tradition.
