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Chinese Honey Chicken

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Chinese Honey Chicken is a sweet and savory dish featuring crispy chicken coated in a rich honey glaze. The perfect balance of flavors with a crispy exterior and tender interior, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. Coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

  • 1/2 cup water (or more, if needed, to make the batter)

  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup)

For the honey sauce:

  • 1/3 cup honey

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

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

For garnish (optional):

  • Sesame seeds

  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  • For the chicken:

    • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water and mix until the batter is smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

    • Dip the chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.

    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove the chicken and set it on a paper towel-lined plate.

  • For the honey sauce:

    • In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lemon juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

    • Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

  • Coat the chicken:

    • Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the fried chicken pieces in a large bowl. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.

  • Serve:

    • Transfer the coated chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot with a side of rice or vegetables.

Notes

  • Spicy Honey Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for extra heat.

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with crispy tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

  • Pineapple Honey Chicken: Add chunks of fresh or canned pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.

  • Ginger-Lemon Chicken: Increase lemon juice and ginger for a more citrusy flavor