Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

why make this recipe

Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests. This dish balances crispy chicken with a sticky, flavorful sauce that is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy homemade Asian cuisine without the need for takeout.

how to make Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a bowl, toss chicken pieces in cornstarch until coated.
2. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In another bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet, stirring well to coat.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

how to serve Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Serve Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken hot, right from the pan. It pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also add a side of vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a complete meal. For a little extra flavor, drizzle more soy sauce or sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

how to store Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist, or microwave it until heated through.

tips to make Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

• Ensure your chicken is cut into even pieces for consistent cooking.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch coating; it gives the chicken a lovely crispy texture.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your preference.
• For a spicy kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.

variation

You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Additionally, if you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, tofu can be a great replacement for chicken. Just ensure it is pressed and cut into cubes before tossing it in cornstarch.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply skip the frying step and heat it in the skillet with the sauce until warmed through.

What can I serve with Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken?

It goes well with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with noodles.

How can I make it gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that your cornstarch is labeled gluten-free.