Delicious Crispy Honey Chicken That's Better Than Takeout

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Crispy Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that has transformed my family dinners into a festival of flavors. This tantalizing creation features tender chicken pieces coated in a crunchy, golden batter, drizzled with a luscious honey sauce that offers the perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness. It’s a fantastic alternative to takeout, ready in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Honey Chicken

Here are some reasons why this Crispy Honey Chicken will become a favorite:

Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Sweet and savory flavors that please the palate.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can be made gluten-free by substituting ingredients.
Perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it all week long.

Plus, with the Crispy Honey-Glazed Chicken variant, you can enjoy a gourmet experience at home!

Ingredients for Crispy Honey Chicken

Gather these items:

½ cup Honey (Substitute with maple syrup for a unique twist.)
¼ cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce (Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.)
¼ cup Water (Adjust based on your desired sauce thickness.)
1 tbsp Sesame Oil (Omit for a lighter taste.)
2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (Rice wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute.)
1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for heat.)
1 tbsp Cornstarch (Substitute with arrowroot powder if desired.)
1 lb Chicken Breasts (Cut into bite-sized pieces.)
1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with a gluten-free blend.)
1 tbsp Chili Powder (Adjust according to spice preference.)
1 tsp Cumin (Can replace with a pre-mixed seasoning.)
1 tsp Onion Powder
½ cup Buttermilk (Use regular milk with vinegar as a substitute.)
2 cups Canola or Vegetable Oil (Used for frying.)

How to Make Crispy Honey Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pour 2-3 inches of oil into a deep skillet and heat to medium-high.
Step 2: In a saucepan, combine honey, low sodium soy sauce, water, sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes. Warm over medium heat until it gently boils.
Step 3: Mix cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry. Gradually add to boiling sauce while stirring until thickened, then reduce heat and simmer.
Step 4: Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Dip into a mix of flour and chili powder, then into buttermilk, and coat in flour again.
Step 5: Fry the coated chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes each until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Transfer fried chicken to a bowl and pour honey sauce over it, tossing gently to coat.
Step 7: Serve over a bed of rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crispy Honey Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying to achieve that crunchy texture.
Do not overcrowd the pan while frying; it can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for 30 minutes before coating.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Honey Chicken

Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
Pair with stir-fried vegetables for a delightful crunch and color.
For a twist, serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy experience.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Honey Chicken

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a hot oven for about 10 minutes to restore its crispiness. This makes it a great option for Crispy Honey Chicken for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Honey Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Honey Chicken?

The secret lies in the double-coating technique and ensuring the oil is hot enough before frying. This ensures that the chicken remains crispy and juicy inside.

Can I make Crispy Honey Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then fry just before serving for the best crunch. This is a great way to enjoy a homemade crispy honey chicken dish with minimal effort!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Honey Chicken?

To avoid soggy chicken, ensure that the oil is hot enough and do not overcrowd the frying pan. Additionally, draining the chicken well on paper towels helps keep it crispy.

Variations of Crispy Honey Chicken You Can Try

Here are a few tasty variations:

For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the honey sauce.
Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli into the frying process for a Crispy Honey Chicken with vegetables option.
Try a sesame twist by garnishing with sesame seeds for a nutty flavor.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.