Honey Garlic Crispy Chicken Recipe – Sweet, Savory, and So Addictive

If you’re on the lookout for a chicken recipe that combines crispy, juicy chicken with a flavorful, mouthwatering sauce, then this Honey Garlic Crispy Chicken is your new go-to dish. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a little bit of spice, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish brings irresistible flavor to the table.

What makes this recipe truly special is the crispy texture of the chicken paired with the rich honey garlic sauce. The sauce has a beautiful mix of honey’s sweetness, garlic’s boldness, and a hint of soy sauce for depth. The crispy chicken bites soak in the sauce, making each bite as addictive as the last. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender chicken inside takes it to the next level.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also super easy to make with common ingredients found in most kitchens. In just about 30 minutes, you can have this savory-sweet dish ready to serve. Whether served over rice or on its own as a snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Cooking Time and Serving

• Cooking time: 25–30 minutes

• Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup milk

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)

• 1 tsp cornstarch (to thicken, optional)

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Garnishes (optional):

• Chopped green onions

• Sesame seeds

How to Make Honey Garlic Crispy Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken. If using chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized cubes. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help ensure a crispy texture when frying.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk the egg and milk together until smooth. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Repeat for all the chicken pieces.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add about 1–2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4–5 minutes, flipping the chicken occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a separate small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse the sauce. If you want the sauce to be thicker, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the crispy chicken back into the pan and toss it gently in the honey garlic sauce until well coated. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the coated chicken to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve the chicken immediately, and enjoy!

Notes

• Chicken Cuts: While chicken breasts are commonly used, chicken thighs work great too, offering a slightly richer flavor and more juiciness.

• For Extra Crispiness: Double-coating the chicken by dipping it back into the egg and flour mixture a second time can create an extra crispy crust.

• Make It Spicy: If you like a kick of heat, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a splash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce.

• Leftovers: The crispy chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven to maintain the crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe, as frozen chicken can release excess moisture that can prevent the coating from staying crispy. If using frozen chicken, make sure it is fully thawed and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the chicken itself is best when served immediately after tossing in the honey garlic sauce, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Can I substitute the honey with something else?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a different twist, though it will change the flavor profile. Other alternatives include agave nectar or brown sugar.

What can I serve this with?
This honey garlic crispy chicken is delicious served over steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. It also pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

Disclaimer

While this Honey Garlic Crispy Chicken is a delicious treat, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you have any food allergies or sensitivities, please be sure to check the ingredients for potential allergens such as soy, garlic, or gluten. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns.