Honey Chicken Recipe (with Video)

Honey Chicken Recipe: Honey chicken is a delicious, crispy, and sweet dish loved by many. The combination of crispy fried chicken coated in a sticky honey glaze makes it irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results.

If you enjoy a balance of sweet and savory flavors, honey chicken is a must-try. The crispy texture of the chicken, paired with the rich honey glaze, creates a mouthwatering experience. Plus, you can customize it with different spices and sauces to suit your taste.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step to make the perfect honey chicken at home. From choosing the right ingredients to frying the chicken to perfection, you’ll learn all the secrets to making this dish a success.

Ingredients Required

Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Having everything prepared will make the cooking process smoother.

For the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 1 egg
• ½ cup water (for batter)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Honey Sauce:

• ½ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (rice vinegar or white vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (for slight tanginess)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
• ¼ cup water (to mix with cornstarch)

For Garnishing:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before we start cooking, make sure you have the right equipment:

• Mixing bowls – For marinating the chicken and preparing the batter.
• Whisk – To mix the sauce ingredients properly.
• Frying pan or deep fryer – For frying the chicken.
• Tongs or slotted spoon – To safely remove the chicken from hot oil.
• Small saucepan – To prepare the honey sauce.
• Paper towels – For draining excess oil from fried chicken.

How to Make Honey Chicken – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Choose boneless chicken thighs or breast for the best texture.
2. Wash and pat dry the chicken with a paper towel.
3. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
4. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.

Step 2: Creating the Marinade

1. In a bowl, whisk together:
   • 1 egg
   • ½ cup water
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • ½ teaspoon black pepper
2. Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and mix well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for better flavor).

Step 3: Coating the Chicken

1. In a separate bowl, mix:
   • 1 cup all-purpose flour
   • ½ cup cornstarch
   • 1 teaspoon paprika
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and coat each piece evenly in the flour mixture.
3. Shake off any excess flour to avoid clumps.

Step 4: Frying the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C).
2. Carefully drop coated chicken pieces into the oil.
3. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Remove and drain on a paper towel.

Step 5: Making the Honey Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, mix together:
   • ½ cup honey
   • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
   • 1 tablespoon vinegar
   • 1 tablespoon ketchup
   • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
   • 1 teaspoon ginger
   • 1 teaspoon garlic
2. Heat the mixture on low-medium heat until it starts to simmer.
3. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with ¼ cup water, then add to the sauce.
4. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Combining the Chicken and Sauce

1. Once the sauce is ready, add the fried chicken to the pan.
2. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Step 7: Garnishing and Serving

1. Transfer the honey chicken to a serving plate.
2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
3. Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

Tips for the Best Honey Chicken

• Double fry the chicken for extra crispiness.
• Use fresh garlic and ginger for a more flavorful sauce.
• Adjust the honey-to-soy ratio to match your taste preference.

Variations of Honey Chicken

• Spicy Honey Chicken – Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
• Honey Garlic Chicken – Increase garlic and add butter for a richer taste.

Healthier Alternatives

Baked version – Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until crispy.

Air-frying – Cook the chicken at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

FAQs about Honey Chicken Recipe

What type of chicken is best for making honey chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for honey chicken. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner and cook faster.

Do I need to marinate the chicken before cooking?

Marinating is optional but recommended for enhancing the flavor. Even 30 minutes of marinating in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic can make a significant difference.

Can honey chicken be made ahead of time?

Yes, honey chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and moisture of the chicken.

What sides pair well with honey chicken?

Steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers complement the sweet and savory flavors of honey chicken well.

Is honey chicken spicy?

The basic recipe is not spicy, but you can add heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure the chicken is fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture during cooking, which can dilute the sauce.

How can I thicken the sauce for honey chicken?

You can thicken the sauce by simmering it on the stove and adding a cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and water) until it reaches the desired consistency.