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Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (30 Minutes) Recipe

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4.3 from 88 reviews

This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick and delicious stir-fried dish featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a light egg white and cornstarch marinade, fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a savory honey garlic sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal with a delightful balance of sweetness and garlic aroma.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite sized pieces (about 1-2 inch/2.5-5 cm)
  • Oil, enough to fill skillet 1 inch (2.5 cm), use Canola oil or other vegetable oil

Marinade

  • 2 egg whites
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Pinch salt or other seasonings (see Notes)

Honey Garlic Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 3 if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or less if you prefer less peppery)

Garnish (optional)

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 green onion, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Heat your oven to the Warm setting or 200°F (93°C) to keep chicken warm between frying batches. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, optionally adding a rack on top, to drain and keep the fried chicken warm.
  2. Make the Sauce: Combine the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper in a pot large enough to hold all the fried chicken later. Set this aside for simmering after frying.
  3. Prepare the Oil: Pour oil into a skillet or wok to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) depth. Heat over medium-high heat to 350-360°F (177-182°C). Use a thermometer to monitor temperature; it may take 10–15 minutes to reach the right heat.
  4. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together egg whites, cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and any other preferred seasonings until fluffy and well blended. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes while the oil heats.
  5. Fry the Chicken: Once oil is hot enough, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces one at a time, avoiding crowding the pan. Fry chicken for about 3-4 minutes total, turning once until golden and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet to drain and keep warm. Repeat in batches, maintaining oil temperature.
  6. Finish the Sauce and Combine: Bring the honey garlic sauce to a boil over medium-high heat, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Add a splash of water if too thick. Toss the fried chicken into the sauce, gently coating each piece.
  7. Serve: Transfer the coated chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Note 1: Seasonings in the marinade can include a pinch of white pepper, ginger powder, or Chinese five-spice powder for added depth.
  • Note 2: Adjust garlic quantity to taste; more garlic will enhance the pungency of the sauce.
  • Note 3: If you don’t have a frying or instant thermometer, test oil readiness by dropping in a small piece of batter or bread; it should sizzle vigorously but not smoke.
  • Use chicken thighs for juicier meat; breasts will be leaner but can dry out faster.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese