Craving takeout but want to keep it homemade? This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe delivers golden, crunchy chicken tossed in a sticky-sweet, garlicky glaze—all in just 30 minutes. It’s a weeknight winner with bold flavors and irresistible texture that rivals your favorite restaurant dish.
Perfect for serving over steamed rice or with stir-fried veggies, this quick recipe turns everyday ingredients into something spectacular.
Why You’ll Love Honey Garlic Chicken
Crispy & Crunchy: Light, golden coating that holds up to sauce.
Sweet & Savory Sauce: The perfect balance of honey and soy.
Fast & Flavorful: Ready in 30 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
Better Than Takeout: Homemade freshness with no mystery additives.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the pepper or add chili flakes.
Time Needed
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Pinch of salt (or other seasonings)
- Oil for frying (enough to fill skillet 1 inch deep)
Honey Garlic Sauce
- 4 tbsp honey
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
Garnish (Optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, sliced
How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk egg whites, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until frothy. Add chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2️⃣ Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat (350–360°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop in a bit of batter—it should sizzle and float.
3️⃣ Fry the Chicken
Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding. Drain on paper towel-lined rack and keep warm in a low oven.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce
In a separate pot, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
5️⃣ Coat the Chicken
Toss crispy chicken into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve
Transfer to a plate and top with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Cornstarch Marinade: Creates a light, crisp coating.
- Batch Frying: Ensures crispy results without sogginess.
- Fresh Garlic: Adds the best flavor punch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles.
- Add steamed broccoli or bok choy for a full meal.
Nutrition Info (Approx. Per Serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 620mg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
You can, but it won’t be as crispy. Try air frying for a healthier crunch.
2. What’s the best cut of chicken for this?
Thighs offer more flavor and moisture, but breasts work great too.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before tossing with chicken.
4. Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
5. Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely, especially if you like it extra saucy over rice.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken brings bold flavor and satisfying crunch in under 30 minutes. It’s a fuss-free recipe with takeout vibes you can make right at home—perfect for weeknights, date nights, or when that craving hits. Serve it up hot and watch it disappear!
Print
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (30 Minutes)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a takeout-style dish you can whip up at home in just 30 minutes. Crunchy chicken pieces tossed in a sticky, sweet, garlicky glaze—better than your favorite restaurant!
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- Oil for frying (enough to fill skillet 1 inch deep)
- Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 tbsp honey
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish (Optional):
- Toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, sliced
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk egg whites, cornstarch, and salt until frothy. Toss in chicken to coat. Marinate 10–15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet or wok to 350–360°F. Test with a drop of batter—it should sizzle.
- Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels and keep warm in oven.
- In a pot, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer 1–2 minutes until thickened.
- Toss chicken in sauce to coat evenly.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Cornstarch creates crispiness. Fry in batches to avoid sogginess. Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 28g
Keywords: crispy honey garlic chicken, chinese chicken, takeout, quick dinner