Homemade Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken – Quick & Flavorful Dinner Idea
Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken brings the authentic taste of your favorite restaurant straight to your kitchen, delivering that perfect balance of golden crunch and sweet, sticky glaze that makes this dish absolutely irresistible.
There’s something magical about biting into perfectly crispy chicken that’s been lovingly coated in a glossy honey sauce – it’s comfort food that transforms an ordinary weeknight into something special. This homemade Chinese honey chicken recipe captures all the flavors you crave while being surprisingly simple to master at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: it’s 6 PM on a busy Tuesday, and you’re craving that restaurant-style honey chicken you had last weekend. Instead of ordering takeout, imagine walking into your kitchen and creating something even better. This crispy honey chicken recipe delivers that satisfying crunch followed by the perfect sweet and savory glaze that clings to every piece.
What makes this easy honey chicken recipe truly special is how it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The secret lies in the double-coating technique that creates an incredibly crispy exterior, while the homemade honey sauce brings together the perfect balance of sweetness, umami, and just a hint of heat. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing guests, this glazed crispy chicken never fails to wow. Explore more quick & easy dinner recipes here for additional weeknight meal inspiration.
Ingredients List
This perfect crunch honey chicken requires simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together to create restaurant-quality results. Here’s everything you’ll need for this honey chicken pro tips-approved recipe:
| For the Chicken | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces | 2 pieces |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| White pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Vegetable oil (for batter) | 2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed |
| For the Honey Sauce | Amount |
|---|---|
| Honey | 1/3 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cornstarch mixed with water (for thickening) | 1 tsp + 2 tsp water |
Find more satisfying lunch ideas here to complement your cooking repertoire with additional meal options.
Step-by-Step Directions
Creating this restaurant-quality Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is easier than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to achieve that perfect golden crunch and glossy honey glaze that makes this dish absolutely irresistible.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes. Pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness. Season lightly with salt and set aside while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Create a well in the center and add the beaten egg, water, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth – the batter should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too heavy.
Step 3: Prepare the Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Mix the cornstarch slurry and add it to the sauce, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or wok to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Test the temperature with a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Step 5: Coat and Fry the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece into the batter, ensuring complete coverage. Carefully lower into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Double Fry for Extra Crispiness
Return the chicken to the oil for a second frying session of 1-2 minutes. This double-frying technique creates the signature extra-crispy texture that makes this honey chicken recipe exceptional.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Immediately toss the hot, crispy chicken with the prepared honey sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately while the coating is still crispy and the sauce is glossy.
Exact Timing to make Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken
Total Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Prep time: 20 minutes (chicken cutting, batter mixing, sauce preparation)
- First frying: 12-15 minutes (3-4 minutes per batch)
- Rest time: 2 minutes (between frying sessions)
- Second frying: 6-8 minutes (1-2 minutes per batch)
- Final glazing and plating: 2 minutes
Pro Timing Tip: Start heating your oil while preparing the batter to maximize efficiency. The sauce can be made ahead and gently rewarmed when ready to use.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of this Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken helps you make informed dietary choices while enjoying this delicious meal.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 servings total) | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 385 | 19% |
| Total Fat | 18g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | – |
| Cholesterol | 95mg | 32% |
| Sodium | 680mg | 30% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 32g | 12% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars | 22g | – |
| Added Sugars | 20g | 40% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 45mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
| Potassium | 380mg | 8% |
Nutritional Insights: This recipe provides excellent protein content while being moderate in calories. The honey contributes to the higher sugar content, but also provides quick energy. The double-frying method does increase fat content, making portion control important for balanced nutrition.
Healthier Alternatives
Making Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken healthier doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. These modifications help reduce calories and boost nutritional value while maintaining that irresistible taste.
| Original Ingredient | Healthier Alternative | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Deep frying in oil | Air frying at 400°F | Reduces fat content by 70%, maintains crispiness |
| All-purpose flour | Almond flour or whole wheat flour | Increases protein and fiber, gluten-free option |
| Regular honey | Sugar-free honey substitute or reduced amount | Cuts added sugars by 50-75% |
| White rice (side dish) | Cauliflower rice or brown rice | Lower carbs, higher fiber and nutrients |
| Full batter coating | Light cornstarch dusting | Reduces calories while keeping some crunch |
| Vegetable oil | Avocado oil spray | Healthier fats, minimal oil usage |
| Regular soy sauce | Low-sodium soy sauce | Reduces sodium by 40% |
| Chicken breast | Chicken thighs (skinless) | Higher protein retention, more flavor |
Additional Health Tips: Steam vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to serve alongside, add sesame seeds for healthy fats, and consider using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a paleo-friendly version.
Explore more delicious desserts here to complete your Chinese-inspired meal with sweet treats that perfectly complement this savory dish.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Rice Pairings: Serve your Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken over steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or coconut rice to soak up that delicious honey glaze. The neutral base allows the sweet and savory flavors to shine while providing satisfying substance to the meal.
Fresh Vegetable Accompaniments: Balance the richness with crisp steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy tossed with garlic and ginger. These vegetables add color, nutrition, and textural contrast that elevates the entire dining experience.
Garnish and Presentation: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a few red pepper flakes over the finished dish. Serve with chopsticks and small bowls of extra sauce on the side for an authentic restaurant-style presentation that impresses every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Oil Temperature Control: The biggest mistake when making Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is not maintaining proper oil temperature. Oil that’s too cool results in greasy, soggy coating, while oil that’s too hot burns the exterior before cooking the chicken through. Always use a thermometer and maintain 350°F throughout the frying process.
Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once dramatically drops the oil temperature and prevents proper crisping. Fry in small batches, allowing space between pieces for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Skipping the Double-Fry Method: Many home cooks skip the second frying step, but this technique is crucial for achieving restaurant-quality crispiness. The first fry cooks the chicken, while the second fry creates that signature golden, extra-crispy exterior that stays crunchy even after glazing.
Storing Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and chicken separate if possible to maintain the best texture. The chicken will lose some crispiness but still tastes delicious when properly stored.
Reheating for Best Results: Restore crispiness by reheating in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy. Gently warm the sauce separately and drizzle over the reheated chicken.
Freezing Guidelines: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven and add fresh sauce for serving. The honey sauce can be made fresh or stored separately in the refrigerator for up to one week.
FAQs
Q: How do I keep my Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken crispy after adding the sauce?
A: The key is to add the sauce immediately before serving and only to the portion you’ll eat right away. Toss quickly to coat and serve immediately. For meal prep, store the crispy chicken and honey sauce separately, then combine just before eating and reheat briefly in the oven.
Q: Can I make Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken ahead of time for a party?
A: Yes! Fry the chicken completely and keep it warm in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes. Prepare the sauce separately and keep it warm. Combine the two just before serving to maintain maximum crispiness. This method works perfectly for entertaining larger groups.
Q: What’s the secret to getting restaurant-style crispiness in homemade Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken?
A: The double-frying technique is essential – first fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, rest for 2 minutes, then fry again for 1-2 minutes. Also crucial: maintain proper oil temperature, use the cornstarch-flour batter combination, and ensure chicken pieces are completely dry before coating.
Q: How can I tell when my Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is perfectly cooked?
A: The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a deep golden-brown color. The coating should sound crispy when tapped with a fork, and the chicken should feel firm to the touch. If you’re unsure, cut into the thickest piece to ensure it’s white throughout with clear juices.
Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken delivers that irresistible restaurant-style crunch with a glossy honey glaze you can make at home in under an hour. Sweet, savory, and perfectly crispy, this easy honey chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a golden masterpiece. Ideal for weeknight meals or recipes for dinner that impress every time.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for batter)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Honey Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and pat dry completely with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and set aside.
- Make the Batter: In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Whisk in egg, water, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil until smooth and thick enough to coat chicken pieces.
- Prepare the Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, mix honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently, then stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Set aside.
- Heat the Oil: Fill a deep pot or wok with oil and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces fully.
- Fry the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece in the batter, coating well. Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Double Fry for Crispiness: Return the chicken to hot oil for another 1–2 minutes to lock in extra crunch.
- Glaze and Serve: Toss the crispy chicken with the honey sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately while hot and glossy.
Notes
Double frying ensures that restaurant-style crispiness that holds up even after glazing. Prepare the sauce ahead to streamline your cooking time, and rewarm gently before coating the chicken.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 27g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: honey chicken, chinese chicken, crispy chicken, recipes for dinner, recipes quick and easy
