Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken: A Sweet and Sticky Glaze Stir-Fry

Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect combination of savory and sweet. Crispy chicken pieces are coated in a rich, sticky honey garlic glaze, making every bite a delicious burst of flavor. The honey adds a luscious sweetness, while the garlic brings an irresistible depth. This quick stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner, giving you the satisfying taste of Chinese takeout without the hassle. Paired with rice or noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 plate

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

Note: This dish is a sweet, savory delight with a perfect balance of protein and carbs, though it is higher in sugar due to the honey glaze. Great for an occasional treat or special meal.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Honey Garlic Glaze:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
• Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help achieve a crispy texture when frying.

2. Fry the Chicken:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
• Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
• Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

• Add the fried chicken back into the skillet with the honey garlic glaze. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the glaze.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional). Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Get Crispy Chicken: Coating the chicken in cornstarch ensures that it fries up crispy. Don’t skip this step for that perfect texture.
• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less honey. For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a little chili paste.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When frying the chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as it can lower the oil temperature and prevent the chicken from getting crispy.
• Make it Healthier: If you prefer a lighter version, try baking the chicken instead of frying. Simply coat the chicken with cornstarch, season, and bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra glaze, feel free to double the honey garlic sauce ingredients. It’s great for drizzling over rice or noodles!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe. They’re tender and juicy, and the extra fat makes the chicken even more flavorful.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the chicken will be crispiest right after cooking, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked chicken.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and make sure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free. Most rice vinegar is naturally gluten-free, but always check the label.

4. What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles. You can also add a side of sautéed bok choy or broccoli for added texture.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken (without the rice). Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken brings a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will have you coming back for more. The crispy chicken coated in the sticky, glossy honey garlic sauce is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough for a special meal. Try it today and enjoy a homemade version of your favorite Chinese takeout dish!