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Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (30 Minutes): Better Than Takeout at Home

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (30 Minutes): Better Than Takeout at Home
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This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is everything you crave in a quick comfort dish—crispy fried chicken coated in a glossy, sweet-and-savory honey garlic sauce with just the right amount of peppery kick. Ready in only 30 minutes, it works beautifully as a party appetizer or as a main dish served with steamed rice or noodles. Surprisingly simple, incredibly addictive, and better than takeout.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces (1–2 inches / 2.5–5 cm)

  • Vegetable or canola oil, enough to fill skillet about 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Marinade

  • 2 egg whites

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • Pinch of salt

Honey Garlic Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons honey

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (use 3 for stronger garlic flavor)

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

Garnish (Optional)

  • Toasted sesame seeds

  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

1. Get Organized

  • Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C) to keep chicken warm between batches.

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil (add a rack if available).

  • Add all sauce ingredients to a saucepan and set aside.

  • Pour oil into skillet and prepare for frying.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk egg whites, cornstarch, and salt until slightly fluffy.
Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 10–15 minutes while oil heats.

3. Heat the Oil

Heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350–360°F (177–182°C).
No thermometer? Dip a wooden spoon handle into the oil—steady bubbling means it’s ready.

4. Fry the Chicken

Carefully add chicken pieces one at a time, without overcrowding.
Fry for 3–4 minutes, turning once, until golden and crispy.
Remove with slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and transfer to warm oven.
Repeat in batches, allowing oil to return to temperature.

5. Make the Sauce & Toss

Bring honey garlic sauce to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add fried chicken directly to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.

6. Serve

Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Extra flavor: Add 1 teaspoon sesame oil or soy sauce to the marinade.

  • Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil to the sauce.

  • Extra sauce: Double the sauce if serving with rice.

  • Crispier chicken: Let marinated chicken rest 5 minutes before frying.

  • Make-ahead: Fry chicken ahead, keep warm, and toss with hot sauce just before serving.

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/crispy-chinese-honey-garlic-chicken-30-minutes-better-than-takeout-at-home/