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Irresistibly crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken glistening with a sweet and savory sauce is ready to be served.

Irresistible Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

This honey garlic chicken recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken coated in a perfectly balanced sweet and savory sauce. The double frying technique and marinated chicken ensure a delightful texture and taste that will become a weeknight favorite.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium preferred
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce low-sodium preferred
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • Red pepper flakes optional
  • Sesame seeds optional
  • Chopped green onions optional
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • whisk
  • Large bowl
  • wire rack
  • Large pot or deep fryer
  • Thermometer
  • Slotted spoon or spider
  • small bowl
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, ground ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and white pepper.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
  6. One piece at a time, dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
  7. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack while you prepare the rest.
  8. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C).
  9. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
  10. Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden.
  11. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain.
  12. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  13. Add the chicken back to the hot oil in batches and fry for another 1-2 minutes, or until it's deeply golden brown and super crispy.
  14. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it back on the wire rack to drain.
  15. While the chicken is draining, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, ketchup, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
  16. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
  17. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
  18. Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  19. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  20. If you want a little heat, add the red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  21. Add the crispy chicken to the skillet with the honey garlic sauce.
  22. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
  23. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce is sticky and glossy.
  24. Transfer the Irresistible Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken to a serving platter.
  25. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
  26. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or your favorite side dishes.

Notes

For extra crispy chicken, ensure the oil temperature is consistent during frying. Do not overcrowd the pot, fry in batches. The double fry is essential! The chicken is best served immediately after frying to maintain its crispness. Adjust the honey garlic sauce to your personal preference by adding more or less honey, soy sauce, or red pepper flakes for heat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for the best texture. Consider serving with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.