Name: Sticky Honey Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: asian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken (breasts or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 egg, whisked; Oil (for frying); 1/3 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, grated; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sticky Honey Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. The golden-brown, crispy chicken is coated in a luscious honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully, offering a glossy, sticky finish. This dish is quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and pairs well with rice, vegetables, or noodles. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, great for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Chicken (boneless, skinless)
Cornstarch
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Egg
Oil (for frying)
Honey
Soy sauce
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (grated)
Rice vinegar
Sesame oil
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Coat the Chicken: In one bowl, whisk an egg. In another, add cornstarch. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it in cornstarch, ensuring an even layer.
Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Coat the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the prepared sauce. Add the crispy chicken pieces, tossing to coat them evenly in the sticky glaze.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add Sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for an extra heat factor.
Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier alternative.
Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or cauliflower in place of chicken for a plant-based variation.
Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Nutty Flavor: Add crushed peanuts or cashews for an added crunch.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover Sticky Honey Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, reheat in a microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer until it reaches the desired consistency or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, making them a great alternative.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I air fry the chicken instead?

Absolutely! Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?

Serve immediately after tossing in the sauce. If making ahead, store the sauce separately and coat just before serving.

What sides go well with Sticky Honey Chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, fried rice, or noodles complement this dish perfectly.

Is this dish too sweet?

The honey provides sweetness, but the soy sauce and vinegar balance the flavors. Adjust the honey quantity if desired.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Fry the chicken in advance and store separately from the sauce. Reheat and toss together when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

Try potato starch, arrowroot powder, or all-purpose flour for coating.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Just ensure the chicken is cooked in batches for even crispiness.

Conclusion

Sticky Honey Chicken is a delicious, quick, and satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Try it today and enjoy the perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and crispy textures!

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