Crispy Chinese Honey Chicken is a delectable dish that combines tender, juicy chicken pieces with a sweet and savory honey glaze. The chicken is coated in a light, crispy batter, then tossed in a luscious honey sauce, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This dish is a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying and flavorful meal.
For the Chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup cornstarch
For the Sauce:
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with vegetable oil and salt. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
Prepare the Coating: Add the beaten egg to the marinated chicken and mix well. Then, add the cornstarch and stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, water, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth.
Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Add the fried chicken pieces back into the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onion tops over the chicken before serving. Enjoy your crispy Chinese honey chicken with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Potassium: 300mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g