Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

If you love the flavors of sweet, sticky, and garlicky Asian-inspired dishes, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken. Juicy chicken bites are coated in a light, crispy batter, then tossed in a glossy honey garlic sauce that’s perfectly balanced—sweet, savory, and just a little tangy.

This recipe delivers everything you crave from your favorite Chinese takeout spot, but better, because you control the ingredients and freshness. Best of all? It’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Whether you serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried veggies, this crispy chicken dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend cravings, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Get ready to skip the takeout menu—once you try this crispy honey garlic chicken, you’ll want it on repeat.

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What Makes This Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Special?

• Crispy Perfection – Lightly battered chicken bites fried until golden and crunchy.

• Sticky-Sweet Glaze – A honey garlic sauce that clings to every bite.

• Better Than Takeout – Fresher, tastier, and made right in your kitchen.

• Ready in 30 Minutes – Quick enough for busy weeknights.

• Customizable Heat – Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy twist.

Pro Tip: For extra crunch, double fry the chicken—it locks in juiciness while keeping the outside ultra-crispy.

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Ingredient Notes

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs (1.5 lbs) – Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work perfectly too.

• Cornstarch (½ cup) – Creates a light, crispy coating.

• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup) – Combines with cornstarch for the perfect texture.

• Eggs (2, beaten) – Helps the coating stick.

• Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Adds salty umami flavor to the glaze.

• Honey (½ cup) – Creates that sticky, glossy sweetness.

• Garlic (5 cloves, minced) – The star of the sauce.

• Rice Vinegar (2 tbsp) – Balances out the sweetness.

• Water or Chicken Broth (¼ cup) – Thins out the sauce slightly.

• Oil (for frying) – Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

• Optional Garnish: Sesame seeds, green onions, or red chili flakes for spice.

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How to Make Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Cut 1.5 lbs chicken into bite-sized chunks.

2. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Coating

3. In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup cornstarch and ½ cup flour.

4. Dip chicken pieces into 2 beaten eggs, then coat in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Shake off excess.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

5. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).

6. Fry chicken in small batches for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and crispy.

7. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

8. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat.

9. Sauté 5 cloves minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

10. Stir in ½ cup honey, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, and ¼ cup water.

11. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 5: Toss & Serve

12. Add fried chicken to the sauce and toss until coated evenly.

13. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or chili flakes.

14. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

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Storage Options

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze fried chicken without sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw and toss in fresh sauce when ready.

• Reheating: Re-crisp chicken in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes, then coat with reheated sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken – Add sriracha or red chili flakes for heat.

• Sesame Honey Chicken – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds into the glaze.

• Baked Version – Bake chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Air Fryer Option – Cook coated chicken at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until crispy.

• Vegetarian Twist – Replace chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower bites.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without deep frying?
Yes! Bake or air-fry the chicken for a lighter version.

2. How do I keep the chicken crispy after saucing?
Toss chicken in the sauce just before serving to keep the coating crunchy.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before tossing with fresh chicken.

4. Can I double the sauce?
Yes, especially if you love extra saucy chicken.

5. What sides go best with this?
Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, lo mein, or stir-fried vegetables.

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Conclusion

This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is everything you love about takeout—sweet, sticky, crispy, and flavorful—made fresh at home. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something special.

Once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to homemade takeout dishes.

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