Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (30 Minutes) Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious dinner idea, look no further than this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken. With a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the combination of crispy chicken and a delectable honey garlic sauce is simply irresistible!

Ingredients Breakdown

The Essential Ingredients

To make this crispy and flavorful chicken, you’ll need:

• 1 pound (450g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) each. Thighs provide a juicier texture, while breasts offer a leaner option.
• Oil for frying: Enough to fill a skillet about 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep. Canola oil or any other vegetable oil is ideal due to its high smoke point.

Understanding the Marinade

• 2 egg whites: Essential for creating a light, crispy coating.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the coating adhere to the chicken and adds to the crispiness.
• Pinch of salt (or other seasonings): Adds a subtle flavor to the chicken.

The Magic Behind the Honey Garlic Sauce

• 4 tablespoons honey: Provides sweetness and creates a sticky, delicious sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust garlic flavor; adjust to taste.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings in umami and depth.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers a hint of spice to balance the sweetness.

Garnish (Optional)

• Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
• 1 green onion, sliced: For a fresh, vibrant finish.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok: For frying the chicken.
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil: To keep the chicken warm between batches.
• Pot: For preparing the honey garlic sauce.
• Slotted spoon: For removing fried chicken from the oil.
• Instant-read or frying thermometer: To ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
• Paper towels: For draining excess oil from the chicken.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Organize Your Workspace

Begin by preheating your oven to the “Warm” setting, or around 200°F (93°C). This will help keep the chicken warm between frying batches. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a rack on top if you have one.

Prepare a pot large enough to hold all the fried chicken pieces later, and add the honey garlic sauce ingredients directly to the pot.

2. Marinating the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is well blended and slightly fluffy. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the oil for frying. This short marination time helps tenderize the chicken and ensures a crispy exterior.

3. Heating the Oil

While the chicken is marinating, pour the oil into a large skillet or wok, filling it to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-360°F (177-182°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check the oil by dropping a small piece of bread in it; it should sizzle immediately but not burn. Proper oil temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy coating.

4. Frying to Perfection

Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot oil, one at a time, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken in batches, cooking each piece for about 3-4 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain it on paper towels. Transfer the cooked chicken to the baking sheet and keep it warm in the oven while frying the remaining pieces. Remember to allow the oil to return to the correct temperature between batches.

5. Making the Honey Garlic Sauce

With the chicken fried, it’s time to prepare the sauce. Boil the honey garlic sauce ingredients in a pot over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes until it slightly thickens. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water to reach your desired consistency. Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To serve, arrange the coated chicken pieces on a large serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. Pair this dish with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature and ensure a crispy texture.
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer or a piece of bread to check the oil temperature. Too hot or too cold oil will affect the texture.
• Skipping the Marinade: The egg white and cornstarch marinade is crucial for a light, crispy coating. Don’t skip this step!

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Alternate Proteins: Swap chicken with shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Options: Use tofu or vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms. Follow the same steps, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the chicken soggy.

FAQ Section

• Can I use a different oil for frying?
  Yes, any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or peanut oil, works well.
• How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
  If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it boil for a few extra minutes. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water until you reach the desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce, making it perfect for any meal. Give this recipe a try and experience its deliciousness for yourself. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering recipes!

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