Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy chicken with a luscious honey glaze that’s both sweet and slightly savory. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and combines the best textures — crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Eggs
All-purpose flour or cornstarch (for coating)
Baking powder (optional, for extra crispiness)
Honey
Soy sauce
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (minced)
Rice vinegar or lemon juice
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Green onions (sliced, for garnish)

Directions

In a bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, mix flour (or cornstarch) and baking powder.
Dip chicken pieces first into the egg, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
In a separate saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar or lemon juice. Heat gently until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
Toss the fried chicken in the honey sauce until evenly coated.
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

Use coconut flour or almond flour for a gluten-free coating.
Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Bake instead of frying for a lighter version, brushing with oil before baking.
Serve with steamed broccoli or snap peas for added veggies.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) to help maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks?

Yes, just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Is cornstarch necessary for the coating?

Cornstarch helps create extra crispiness but all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the honey sauce can be made ahead and warmed before tossing with chicken.

How do I prevent the chicken from being greasy?

Drain fried chicken well on paper towels and fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is possible but the texture will be less crispy than frying.

What can I serve with Crispy Honey Chicken?

Steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried vegetables work well.

Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Use almond flour or coconut flour for coating and substitute honey with a keto-friendly sweetener, though flavor will vary.

How do I store leftover chicken?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2 days.

Can I freeze leftover chicken?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze cooked chicken; reheat carefully to avoid sogginess.

How thick should the honey sauce be?

It should be slightly thickened but still pourable, to coat the chicken evenly.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Chicken is a delightful balance of crunchy texture and sweet, tangy flavor that’s easy to make and loved by all ages. Whether for a quick family meal or a fun dinner party, this recipe offers satisfying comfort food with a delicious homemade touch.