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:
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1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1/2 cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
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2 eggs, beaten
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Honey Sauce:
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1/3 cup honey
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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2 tablespoons ketchup (optional for color and depth)
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
Garnishes (Optional):
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Sesame seeds
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Sliced green onions
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Red chili flakes (for heat)
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Steamed broccoli or bell peppers
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Season Chicken
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Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes.
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Season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Set up two bowls — one with beaten eggs, one with cornstarch or flour.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
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Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
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Dredge chicken in egg, then cornstarch, and place in hot oil.
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Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.
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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
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In a small saucepan or wok, add honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup (if using), vinegar, and ginger.
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Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
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Stir in cornstarch slurry, and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy (2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Coat Chicken
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Add the fried chicken to the pan with the sauce.
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Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
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Simmer for 1–2 minutes to allow sauce to cling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, or chili flakes.
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Serve over steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles.
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Add stir-fried veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a full meal.
Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving – without rice)
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Calories: 400–450
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Protein: 25–30g
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Fat: 15–20g (varies with frying method)
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Carbs: 35–40g
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Sugar: ~15g (from honey)
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Sodium: ~700mg (can lower by using low-sodium soy sauce)
