Chinese Honey Chicken – Delish Diner

Before we dive into the mouthwatering world of Chinese honey chicken, let’s think about how to make it shine on your dinner table. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can complement its sweet and savory notes. Here are a few suggestions to get your creative juices flowing:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This classic pairing is a must. The soft, fluffy rice absorbs the sticky honey glaze perfectly, creating a balanced bite with each forkful.

Stir-Fried Vegetables: A vibrant mix of broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas adds color and crunch. The freshness elevates the dish, making it nutritious and delightful.

Egg Fried Rice: The umami flavor of egg fried rice adds depth. The slight saltiness from the soy sauce works well with the honey chicken’s sweetness.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s get into the details of this delightful dish.

Chinese honey chicken is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and texture. As a registered dietitian and passionate food blogger, I’ve tried countless recipes, but this dish always stands out for its versatility and appeal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, creating a weeknight meal, or simply treating yourself to something special, this Chinese honey chicken fits the bill.

During my culinary journey, I’ve come to cherish flavors that tell a story. This recipe captures the essence of Chinese cuisine, merging sweet and savory with stunning simplicity. Let’s explore why this recipe works so well and how you can bring it to your kitchen.

What is Chinese Honey Chicken?

Chinese honey chicken is a popular takeout dish that combines crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet honey glaze. It’s characterized by a unique blend of flavors, including light soy sauce, garlic powder, and a hint of rice vinegar. The dish is known for its irresistible crunch and sticky texture that comes from the glaze, making it a favorite among diners.

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Why This Recipe Works

1. Perfectly Crispy Chicken
Achieving that delightful crunch is key. The tempura-style batter, made from cornstarch and flour, keeps the chicken moist while providing a satisfying crunch. This contrast makes each bite an experience.

2. Balanced Sweetness
The sweetness of honey is balanced with soy sauce and rice vinegar. This combination prevents the dish from becoming overly sweet, allowing me to enjoy the flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Quick Preparation
This recipe caters to busy lifestyles. The marinade takes only a few minutes, and the frying process is quick. In about 30 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal at home.

4. Versatile Ingredients
Most of the ingredients are pantry staples. If you find yourself missing a few items, there are easy substitutes available. This accessibility makes it practical for everyday cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

To create mouthwatering Chinese honey chicken, gather these ingredients:

Oil for Deep-Frying: 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil (or neutral oil like canola)

Chicken & Marinade:

• 2 teaspoons Chinese Shaoxing wine (or more soy sauce as a substitute)
  
• 300g / 10oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2.5cm (1 inch) chunks
  
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium light soy sauce
  
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  

Crispy Tempura-Style Batter:

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  
• ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  
• 6 tablespoons cornstarch
  
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  
• 7 to 8 tablespoons ice-cold soda water or club soda
  

Sticky Honey Glaze:

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  
• ⅓ cup (100g) pure honey
  
• 2 teaspoons Chinese cooking wine (or soy sauce)
  
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  
• 1½ tablespoons (25g) light corn syrup or glucose
  

Dredging:

• ½ cup fine cornflour or cornstarch
  

Garnish/Serving Suggestions:

• Finely sliced spring onions
  
• Toasted sesame seeds
  

How To Make This Chinese Honey Chicken?

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix the Shaoxing wine, low-sodium soy sauce, and cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This step helps the flavors penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

While the chicken marinates, prepare the batter. In a separate bowl, combine flour, kosher salt, cornstarch, garlic powder, and baking powder. Gradually add the ice-cold soda water until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to around 350°F (175°C). It’s important to maintain this temperature to achieve that perfect crispiness.

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the cornflour, ensuring they are evenly coated. Dip each piece into the batter, letting any excess drip off. Carefully drop them into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per batch.

Step 5: Prepare the Honey Glaze

While the chicken is frying, combine the ingredients for the honey glaze in a small saucepan—light soy sauce, honey, Chinese cooking wine, rice vinegar, and corn syrup. Allow this mixture to simmer gently until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken is crispy and golden, remove it from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. In a large skillet over low heat, add the fried chicken and pour the honey glaze on top. Toss until every piece is coated.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer the honey chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with finely sliced spring onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

Tips & Tricks

To take your Chinese honey chicken to the next level, consider these tips:

Keep the Oil Hot: If the oil cools down too much, the chicken will absorb more oil and lose its crispiness.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the honey ratio based on your taste preferences. Add more vinegar for a tangier kick.
Double-Dip for Extra Crisp: For an even crunchier batter, consider double-dipping the chicken pieces in cornflour after the first batter dip before frying.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. The longer it sits, the less crispy it becomes.
Experiment with Spice: For a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze.

Nutrition Information

When prepared, one serving of Chinese honey chicken contains approximately:

Calories: 400
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g

This is a general estimation and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

Storing leftovers is simple. Place any uneaten Chinese honey chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results. This helps maintain some crispiness.

What Sides Would Complement Chinese Honey Chicken?

To enhance your dining experience, consider these sides as well:

1. Garlic Broccoli: The slight bitterness of steamed or sautéed broccoli with garlic will cut through the sweetness, balancing the plate beautifully.

2. Fried Rice with Vegetables: This dish not only pairs well but adds a delightful twist. The eggs and veggies mingle nicely and provide a hearty side.

3. Wontons or Egg Rolls: They add a crunchy texture. A crispy dumpling filled with vegetables or meat can be a nice accompaniment to the honey chicken.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Don’t fret if you’re missing some ingredients. Here are some alternative suggestions:

1. Soy Sauce Substitutes: If you’re out of soy sauce, coconut aminos offers a savory alternative with a slightly sweet flavor.

2. Chicken Thigh Alternatives: You can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out faster if overcooked. Adjust frying time accordingly.

3. Honey Replacements: Maple syrup can serve as a sweetener in a pinch, imparting a unique flavor to the dish.

4. Soda Water Alternatives: If you lack soda water, use ice-cold water instead; however, the batter may lack some lightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Chinese honey chicken brings together crispy textures and delightful flavors, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare and full of personality. By following these steps and tips, I’m confident you will create a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also wows your friends and family. Dive into the cooking process and enjoy every crunchy, sticky bite. Happy cooking!

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