Go Back
A plate of Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken served with a garnish of green onions and sesame seeds as the featured dish for a delicious homemade meal.

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

Skip the takeout and enjoy this restaurant-quality honey garlic chicken featuring perfectly crispy, cornstarch-coated chicken tossed in a sticky, savory-sweet glaze. It is an incredibly fast, weeknight-friendly meal that delivers maximum flavor in just 15 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese Fusion
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup vegetable or canola oil for frying
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • Optional garnish: toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional garnish: sliced green onions

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Meat thermometer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres correctly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with salt, pepper, and cornstarch until each piece is evenly and lightly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
  3. Heat about one inch of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot (a wooden spoon dipped in should bubble).
  4. Fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes, turning once, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Remove the chicken pieces and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.
  6. Discard most of the oil from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Whisk in the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it bubbles and thickens into a glaze.
  8. Add the crispy chicken back into the pan and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in the sauce.
  9. Remove from heat, garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

To ensure maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan during the frying process. If you prefer a spicier dish, stir in 1 teaspoon of chili paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. For leftovers, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F to help restore the texture, as the sauce may soften the crust over time.