Imagine biting into the perfect piece of Crispy Honey chicken: succulent, tender, and drizzled with golden sweetness that dances on your taste buds. This delicious recipe combines Asian and Western culinary techniques, making it a family favorite that satisfies both adventurous and traditional palates. Learn how to create this delightful dish at home with ease.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
When I think of cooking, I remember the weekend afternoons spent in my grandmother’s bustling kitchen. She effortlessly cooked her famous Crispy Chicken dish, her apron powdered with flour. I’ve adapted her techniques to create this version that not only honors her legacy but also adds a fresh twist with a sweet honey glaze that packs a punch. It’s this recipe that brings our family together, even now.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crispy Honey Chicken Recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, boasting a golden crust that assures a satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s not only simple enough for a weeknight dinner but also impressive enough for a special occasion. With ingredients you likely already have, this dish is practical, with the honey glaze adding a delightful touch that transforms regular fried chicken into an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients Notes
For this recipe, skinless chicken breasts work best, offering a lean and tender option. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier result. Use fresh honey for the richest flavor, and opt for a light soy sauce to keep the glaze from becoming too salty. If you’re against gluten, rice flour is a perfect switch from all-purpose flour to achieve the same crispiness.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even sizes for consistent cooking. Toss them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of cornstarch. This will help the flour adhere and create a crispy coating.
Step 2
Prepare your batter by combining flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and cold water until smooth. Dip each chicken piece, ensuring they’re completely coated. Let them rest for a few minutes to set.
Step 3
Heat oil in a deep skillet. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4
In a separate pan, combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil over medium heat. Stir until it forms a smooth glaze. Toss in the Fried Chicken pieces, coating them evenly.
Step 5
Plate the chicken and sprinkle with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for garnish. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Storage Options
Store any leftover crispy honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven or Air Fryer to maintain the crispiness. Avoid microwaves as they can make the coating soggy. This dish also freezes well; ensure chicken pieces are cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in a hot oven for best results.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicy kick, add a dash of chili flakes to the honey glaze. Alternatively, swap out the honey for maple syrup if preferred. Gluten-intolerant or avoiding refined oils? Experiment with almond flour and air fry for a healthy twist. Vegetarians can substitute chicken with crispy tofu, ensuring that all ingredients align with dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy honey chicken is ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings. Serve it alongside a fresh cucumber salad or steamed jasmine rice to complement the sweet and savory flavors. It pairs wonderfully with a light white wine or iced tea, making it suitable for outdoor summer dining or cozy winter meals.
frequently asked questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep the glaze separate and only toss them together when you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain the dish’s signature crunch.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe? Absolutely! Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu and use a plant-based honey alternative. The rest of the recipe can be kept the same. You’ll achieve a similar incredible taste that’s perfect for vegan diets.
Can this recipe be baked instead of fried? Yes, for a healthier option, bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll lose a slight amount of crunch, but the flavor remains deliciously vibrant.
How to Make Crispy Honey Chicken: PF Chang's Recipe Secrets Revealed!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts sliced into chunks
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
Chicken Batter
- 0.5 cup self-rising flour
- 0.5 cup cornstarch
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup filtered water
- 1 piece egg white only
Honey Sauce
- 0.33 cup rice wine vinegar
- 0.5 cup honey good quality honey preferred
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 0.33 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
- 2 cloves garlic grated
For Serving
- 3 stalks green onions sliced for serving/topping
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat your oil to 350 degrees. Use a candy thermometer to monitor and adjust the heat as needed. Set up a cooling rack with paper towels underneath nearby.
- Whisk together all batter ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Batter will be very drippy; this is normal.
- Dip chicken chunks in the batter, ensuring full coverage. Carefully place into hot oil in batches. Fry for 5-6 minutes, ensuring even browning.
- Once fried, place chicken chunks onto the cooling rack. Keep in a 200-degree oven to stay warm until serving.
- In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients except the cornstarch mixture. Cook over medium heat until boiling. Reduce and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, stir, and continue to cook until thickened to desired consistency.
- When ready to serve, toss crispy chicken in sauce in a mixing bowl. Place on top of rice and garnish with green onions.
