Description
Sink your teeth into perfectly crispy chicken coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze that’s sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible. This dish is a guaranteed hit for weeknight dinners or special occasions, blending crunchy textures with bold flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- A pinch of salt
- Canola or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until frothy.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes while you heat the oil.
2. Heat the Oil:
- Pour enough oil into a large skillet or wok to create a depth of about 1 inch.
- Heat the oil to 350°F (177°C). Test by dropping in a small piece of chicken; if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.
3. Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning once, until golden and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Place in a 200°F (93°C) oven to keep warm while frying the remaining chicken.
4. Make the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. If needed, add a splash of water to adjust the consistency.
5. Coat the Chicken:
- Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the honey garlic sauce.
- Toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F for even frying.
- Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the most flavorful sauce.
- Crispy Tip: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying and Tossing
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired