Description

If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances crunch, sweetness, and savoriness, then Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken is the answer. This delightful recipe captures everything you want in a comfort food: the satisfying crunch from the crispy chicken thighs paired with the glossy honey garlic sauce creates a feast for the senses.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3/4 cup cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups oil for frying
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish

Instructions

The first step in creating your Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken is to ensure your chicken is prepped and seasoned perfectly. Take the boneless chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces, making them easier to cook and enjoy. In a mixing bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. The aim is to have an even coating of seasoning that will enhance the flavors once cooked. Now, take the cornstarch and toss it into the bowl with the chicken. Mix thoroughly until each piece is fully covered – this coating is essential for achieving that crispy texture!
Next, heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. It’s crucial to ensure the oil is hot enough, as this is what helps create that crispy exterior. Fry the chicken in batches; don’t overcrowd the pan. Turn the chicken pieces occasionally, allowing them to develop a golden brown color all over. This process typically takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Once they are golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken onto paper towels or a wire rack. The towels will help absorb excess oil, ensuring they remain crunchy.
After your chicken is fried to perfection, it’s time to whip up the irresistible honey garlic sauce that will elevate this dish. Discard most of the oil from the pan, leaving about a tablespoon. This leftover oil will serve as a flavorful base for your sauce. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant; be cautious not to burn it, as this can impart a bitter flavor. Next, pour in the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, stirring to combine everything in the pan. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This ensures the flavors meld together beautifully.
Once the sauce has thickened adequately, it’s time to bring the chicken back into the mix. Return the crispy chicken pieces to the pan, and gently toss them until they are evenly coated with that glossy honey garlic sauce. The coating should stick well, making each piece deliciously enticing. After mixing, remove the pan from the heat and garnish your creation with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve your Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken hot and watch as your family devours every last bite!

Notes

To ensure extra crispiness, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying before adding the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or additional soy sauce to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 350 kcal
Sodium: 600 mg
Protein: 28 g