Description
This Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken (or Beef) is the ultimate homemade takeout dish. Tender, juicy meat coated in a golden, crispy crust, then tossed in a sweet, garlicky honey sauce. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for a quick dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (or beef like sirloin)
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 egg whites
- Oil for frying (canola, peanut, or avocado oil)
Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water
Garnish (Optional):
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken (or beef): Toss meat in whisked egg whites and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Coat the meat: Mix cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge each piece in the mixture.
- Fry until crispy: Heat oil to 350°F and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel.
- Make the sauce: In a saucepan, heat honey, garlic, soy sauce, black pepper, and sesame oil. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Coat and serve: Toss crispy chicken (or beef) in the sauce, garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra sauce, double the sauce ingredients.
- For extra crispiness, fry twice or use an air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.
- For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or sriracha.
- For meal prep, store the sauce and crispy chicken separately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese