Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken

Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is one of those takeout favorites that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The golden, crunchy coating paired with a sticky-sweet honey glaze creates a flavor combination that beats any restaurant version. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it never fails to impress.

There’s something magical about biting into perfectly crispy chicken coated in glossy honey sauce. The first time I made this recipe, I was skeptical that homemade could rival my favorite Chinese restaurant. But after one taste of that crunchy exterior meeting the sweet and savory glaze, I was hooked. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something special. The balance of honey sweetness with hints of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

What You’ll Need to Make This Honey Chicken

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and equipment. You’ll need a deep-fry thermometer, a deep pan or wok, and a slotted spoon for this recipe. After testing different honey types, I’ve found that regular clover honey works perfectly, though orange blossom honey adds a lovely floral note. Fresh ginger makes a noticeable difference compared to dried.

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for batter)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (for thickening)

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Pro tip: After testing different flour ratios, I’ve found that using 2 parts flour to 1 part cornstarch creates the crispiest coating. The cornstarch is the secret to achieving that ultra-crispy texture that stays crunchy even after tossing with sauce.

How to Make the Best Crispy Honey Chicken

I recommend having everything prepped before you start frying, as the cooking moves quickly once you begin. A meat thermometer is essential here to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Add the water, egg, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix until you have a smooth batter with no lumps. Let this rest for 3-4 minutes, which helps it stick better to the chicken and creates a lighter texture.

Step 2: Cut your chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Pat the chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels (this helps the batter adhere properly). Dip each piece into the batter, making sure every surface is well-coated. Let any excess batter drip off before frying.

Step 3: In a deep pan or wok with sides at least 3 inches high, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to exactly 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor this, as temperature control is crucial for crispy results. Fry the chicken pieces in small batches (about 5-6 pieces at a time) for 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. The chicken should float and bubble vigorously. Avoid overcrowding the pan, or the temperature will drop and your chicken will absorb oil instead of crisping up. Drain the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: While the chicken is frying, prepare your honey sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. The aroma will be incredible.

Step 5: Once the sauce is simmering, stir in your cornstarch slurry (the cornstarch mixed with water). Continue stirring for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy enough to coat the back of a spoon. The sauce should have a honey-like consistency.

Step 6: Add your crispy chicken pieces to the sauce, tossing gently until every piece is evenly coated with that beautiful honey glaze. Work quickly here to maintain maximum crispiness.

Step 7: Transfer the honey chicken to a serving plate immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for color and extra flavor. Serve right away over steamed rice for the best experience.

Perfect Pairings for Your Honey Chicken

This sweet and savory Chinese honey chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides that let the star shine.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, slightly fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up every drop of that sticky honey sauce. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.

Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add a pop of color and a nutritional boost. The crunchy vegetables contrast nicely with the tender chicken.

Fried Rice: For a more substantial meal, serve your honey chicken over vegetable or egg fried rice. The combination creates a complete takeout-style dinner at home.

Lo Mein Noodles: Toss some lo mein noodles with a bit of sesame oil and serve alongside the chicken for an authentic Chinese restaurant experience.

Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: Start your meal with these crispy appetizers to create a full Chinese feast that’s perfect for entertaining.

More Amazing Chicken Dinners to Try

This crispy Chinese honey chicken pairs wonderfully with other flavorful chicken dishes that bring variety to the dinner table. For another crowd-pleasing option, try the savory Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Rich Garlic Sauce, which features a similar satisfying crunch with Italian-inspired flavors. The creamy garlic sauce creates a delicious contrast to the honey glaze.

When planning weeknight meals, consider making Best Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for another Asian-inspired favorite, or the comforting Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac Cheese that combines sweet and savory flavors families love. For a lighter option that still delivers on taste, the Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken with Pineapple offers tropical sweetness similar to this honey chicken recipe.

Keeping Your Honey Chicken Fresh

Proper storage is key to enjoying leftovers without sacrificing that crispy texture you worked hard to achieve.

Store the fried chicken and honey sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the coating loses some crispiness after the first day, even with proper storage. You can also freeze the fried chicken (without sauce) for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the chicken in your oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the coating soft and chewy. Warm the sauce separately in a small saucepan, then toss together just before serving.

After frying, allow the used oil to cool completely, then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve and store in a sealed container for one more use, or dispose of it properly at a recycling center. Never pour hot oil down the drain.

Your Honey Chicken Questions Answered

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