If you’re looking for a dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors into a single bite, honey chicken is the perfect recipe for you. This classic favorite is not only easy to prepare but also a hit at family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving comfort food with a twist. Let’s dive into how you can create this crowd-pleaser in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the honey sauce:
- ⅔ cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Honey Chicken Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In one bowl, place the beaten eggs. In another, combine the flour and cornstarch.
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat it with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess.
2. Fry the chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 175°C (350°F).
- Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
- Place the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
3. Make the honey sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Combine and serve:
- Toss the fried chicken pieces in the honey sauce until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
5. Enjoy!
- Serve your honey chicken with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- For extra crispiness, double fry the chicken. Fry it once until light golden, let it rest for a few minutes, then fry again until deeply golden.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
This honey chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its irresistible blend of flavors. Give it a try and savor the magic of homemade comfort food!
