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Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

A delightful dish featuring juicy chicken pieces in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, served over rice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 cup cold water
  • 4 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Preferably low sodium.
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Optional.
  • 1 tsp cornstarch For slurry, mixed with 2 tsp water.
  • 2 green onions Thinly sliced, for garnish.
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds For garnish.

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until you have a smooth batter that’s thick but pourable.
  • Add the chicken pieces into the batter, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to thicken up a bit.
  • In a deep skillet or wok, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot, about 350°F (175°C), for perfect frying!
  • Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  • In a clean skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
  • Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
  • Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce is thick and glossy.
  • Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and toss well to coat each piece evenly in that delicious honey garlic glaze.
  • Serve the honey garlic chicken over cooked rice. Top with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a perfect finish.

Notes

Ensure your oil is properly heated for crisp chicken. Fry in small batches to avoid sogginess. Adjust spice level to preference with red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.