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A golden-brown crispy chicken dish glazed with a rich, amber-colored honey garlic sauce, garnished with green onion slices and served on a white ceramic plate with steamed rice in the background, showcasing the delectable flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine.
Isabella

Best Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken

This Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, offering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The sticky, finger-licking goodness is achieved through a crispy chicken coating and a harmonious blend of honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
  • Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Large skillet or wok
  • medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula or tongs
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until cooked through and browned on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
  6. Pour the honey garlic sauce into the same skillet you used to cook the chicken.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
  8. Pour in the cornstarch slurry and continue to stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  9. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the honey garlic sauce.
  10. Toss the chicken to ensure it's completely coated in the sauce.
  11. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to further caramelize and cling to the chicken.
  12. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
  13. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.

Notes

For best results, don't overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your preference. Use fresh garlic and ginger for a more vibrant flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet. Consider variations such as honey garlic shrimp or pineapple chicken.