If you love Chinese takeaways, you’ll love this easy Chinese Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken recipe! It’s sweet, savory, crunchy and incredibly easy to make in just 30 minutes. This dish features crispy fried chicken coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a delicious home-cooked meal that rivals your favorite restaurant.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Quick and easy – ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Crispy and flavorful – lightly fried chicken in a delicious honey garlic sauce. Better than takeaways – made with simple, fresh ingredients with no additives. Versatile – serve with rice, pasta or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

½ cup cornstarch

¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)

1 egg

3 tablespoons water

1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

4 cloves garlic (minced)

⅓ cup honey

¼ cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami flavor)

1 teaspoon sesame oil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For Garnish:

Sesame seeds

Scallions, chopped Slices

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and water.

Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat with the flour mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated.

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Remove the chicken and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, add the sesame oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and add to the sauce.

Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Cover the Chicken

Place the crispy fried chicken in the honey garlic sauce, stirring to coat each piece.

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serve immediately with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables.

Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken

Twice fry the chicken – For extra crunch, fry the chicken twice! The second fry should only take about 1-2 minutes.

Don’t overcrowd the pan – fry the chicken in batches to maintain its crispiness.

Use fresh garlic – fresh minced garlic enhances the flavour of the sauce.

Adjust the sweetness – if you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the honey a little and add a splash of vinegar.

Air Fryer Option – Cook chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, then add sauce.

Variations to Try

Honey Garlic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce.

Lighter Version: Bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute crispy tofu or cauliflower for the chicken.

Extra Crunch: Use Panko breadcrumbs for texture.

What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken

Steamed white or jasmine rice

Fried rice (try Classic Egg Fried Rice!)

Garlic noodles

Steamed broccoli or bok choy

Asian cucumber salad

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Fry the chicken and keep it separate from the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer, then toss with the warm, fresh sauce.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for the best texture.

3. Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken?

Yes! Freeze the fried chicken separately from the sauce. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer, then toss with the fresh sauce.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and replace the flour with more cornstarch to make it completely gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This easy, crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold flavors, a crunchy texture, and a quick cook time. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will become a favorite in no time. Enjoy your homemade ready meal!