Crispy Honey Chicken: The Ultimate Crispy Honey Chicken Recipe

Name: Crispy Honey Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Honey; 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons water; 0.25 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice wine vinegar; 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; 3 large chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs, cut into large bite-sized pieces); 1.5 cups flour; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 0.5 teaspoon coriander; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 1.5 cups buttermilk; 2 -3 inches of canola oil or vegetable oil for frying

Introduction to Crispy Honey Chicken

Crispy honey chicken is a delightful dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for many. With its golden, crispy coating and sticky honey sauce, this dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this comforting meal that will surely become a staple in your home!

A Personal Story Behind My Crispy Honey Chicken Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table, where homemade meals brought us together. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother preparing crispy honey chicken for special occasions. The aroma of the frying chicken and the sweet scent of honey would fill the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Now, I love to recreate that same experience in my kitchen, sharing this delicious recipe with my loved ones.

What Makes This Crispy Honey Chicken Recipe Special?

This crispy honey chicken recipe stands out because it combines simple ingredients to create an extraordinary dish. The chicken is double-coated, ensuring a crunchy texture, while the honey sauce adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the spices used in the batter. Additionally, this recipe is adaptable; you can tweak the spice level to suit your taste by adjusting the red pepper flakes. It’s an easy recipe that yields restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen!

The Full Crispy Honey Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

1/2 cup Honey
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons water
1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice wine vinegar
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
3 large chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs, cut into large bite-sized pieces)
1 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
Canola oil or vegetable oil (about 2″-3″ of oil in a skillet pan with sides)

Instructions

Pour about 2″-3″ of canola or vegetable oil into a large frying pan with high sides. Heat the oil over medium-high heat while preparing the sauce and chicken. Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying for a crispy texture.
Make the Honey Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, water, sesame oil, red pepper flakes (if using), and vinegar. Whisk together and bring to a boil. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Set aside. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the boiling sauce while whisking. Simmer on low for 10 minutes. Tip: If the sauce thickens too much, add water gradually to adjust consistency.

Crispy Chicken: In a bowl, mix flour, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and onion powder. In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk. Dip chicken pieces first in the flour, then buttermilk, and back in the flour. Fry in the hot oil for 5-7 minutes, turning as needed, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally. Place cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.
Coat Chicken: Combine all cooked chicken in a large bowl. Pour the hot honey sauce over the chicken and gently mix until all pieces are coated.
Serve the crispy honey chicken with cooked rice and sliced green onions. Tip: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crispy Honey Chicken

This crispy honey chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or fried rice, enhancing the meal’s flavor. You can also serve it alongside fresh vegetables or a simple salad for a more balanced dish. For those who love a bit of heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy dipping sauce. If you want to switch things up, try adding nuts like cashews or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Honey Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add even more flavor due to their higher fat content.

How can I store leftovers? Store any leftover crispy honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free soy sauce to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 4