FAQsHow do you make crispy Chinese honey garlic chicken?

Start by cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces, then marinate lightly with soy sauce and garlic powder. Coat each piece in a mix of cornstarch and flour after dipping in egg. Fry until golden brown. In a separate pan, simmer a glaze with garlic, ginger, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until thick. Toss the chicken in the sauce, and you’ve got the perfect sweet and sticky honey garlic chicken.

What makes the chicken extra crispy in Chinese recipes?

Cornstarch is the key. It creates a lighter, crispier crust than flour alone. Double frying also adds crunch—first at medium heat to cook through, then briefly at higher heat to crisp up the exterior. This is a method used in many restaurant-style dishes like crispy chicken parmesan .

Can I bake Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier version, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or use an air fryer at 375°F for 15–18 minutes. Spray lightly with oil to help the coating crisp up. The final texture will differ slightly but still delivers that satisfying crunch with less oil.

What sides go well with Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken?

Classic pairings include steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, sautéed green beans, or dumplings. These options complement the sweet and savory glaze without overpowering it. Try pairing it with veggie-loaded mains like easy Chinese mango chicken stir-fry for a delicious duo.

Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken – 5-Star Recipe You’ll Love

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
3 tbsp honey
1 tbsp brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tbsp green onions, chopped
1 tbsp sesame seeds

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Instructions

Cut chicken into bite-size pieces and season.
Dip chicken in egg, then coat in cornstarch-flour mixture.
Fry chicken in hot oil until crispy and golden.
Drain chicken on paper towels.
In a pan, cook garlic and ginger in sesame oil.
Add soy sauce, honey, sugar, vinegar; simmer until thick.
Toss fried chicken in sauce.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Serve with rice.

Notes

For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken.
Air fryer or oven baking methods also work.
Add chili flakes for spice.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Fried
Cuisine: Chinese