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Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: Easy Recipe & Cooking Tips

Crispy, bite-sized chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat thoroughly.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, return the chicken to the bowl with the dry mixture and toss again to ensure a second, even coating.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  4. Carefully add chicken in a single layer (work in batches). Fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove chicken and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  6. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
  8. Place saucepan over medium heat and bring honey garlic mixture to a simmer.
  9. Slowly pour cornstarch slurry into simmering sauce, whisking constantly.
  10. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened to desired consistency.
  11. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add fried chicken to the saucepan with the honey garlic sauce.
  12. Toss to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing sauce to adhere and caramelize slightly.
  13. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in batches ensures the oil temperature remains high, resulting in crispy chicken.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Adjust the heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes to customize the spice level to your liking.
  • Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve.
  • Serve with your favorite sides: These chicken bites are delicious with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or even a simple salad.