honey chicken

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Flavor Profile: Sweet, savory, garlicky, slightly sticky

 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1/2 cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)

• 2 eggs, beaten

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Honey Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional for color and depth)

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)

Garnishes (Optional):

• Sesame seeds

• Sliced green onions

• Red chili flakes (for heat)

• Steamed broccoli or bell peppers

 Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Season Chicken

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes.

2. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Set up two bowls — one with beaten eggs, one with cornstarch or flour.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a skillet or pan over medium-high heat.

2. Dredge chicken in egg, then cornstarch, and place in hot oil.

3. Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.

4. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

Alternative: Air fry or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 3: Make the Honey Sauce

1. In a small saucepan or wok, add honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup (if using), vinegar, and ginger.

2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

3. Stir in cornstarch slurry, and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy (2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Coat Chicken

1. Add the fried chicken to the pan with the sauce.

2. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.

3. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to allow sauce to cling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, or chili flakes.

• Serve over steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles.

• Add stir-fried veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a full meal.

 Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving – without rice)

• Calories: 400–450

• Protein: 25–30g

• Fat: 15–20g (varies with frying method)

• Carbs: 35–40g

• Sugar: ~15g (from honey)

• Sodium: ~700mg (can lower by using low-sodium soy sauce)