Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts – cut in half lengthwise and pounded to an even thickness to make four cutlets

2 large eggs, beaten + 1 tbsp water

1 c flour

1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp smoked paprika – regular is fine if you don’t have smoked

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

½ tsp garlic powder

¼ c vegetable oil

Honey Garlic Sauce:

½ c honey

2 tsp minced garlic

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp corn starch + 3 tbsp cold water

Instructions:

Place a saucepan on the stove, then add soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Stir until well blended.

Turn the heat to medium and allow the mixture to boil.

In a mixing bowl, add cold water and cornstarch. Stir until well mixed.

Pour the cornstarch into the pan and stir until well blended and thick.

Remove the pan from the heat.

In a mixing bowl, add flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed.

In another mixing bowl, add 1 tbsp of water and eggs. Whisk until well mixed.

Dip each chicken slice into the egg wash, then into the flour mixture. Make sure to coat them well.

Place a large skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium.

Add oil and allow it to become hot.

Add the chicken pieces and cook each side for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.

Add the fried chicken slices into the bowl with the honey garlic sauce and toss until well coated.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes:

Chicken Thighs Substitute: Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts if preferred. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the thighs.

Baking Option: While frying provides the crispiest texture, you can bake the chicken in the oven for a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken with oil or cooking spray and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Substitute for Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes for honey in the sauce. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.

Preparation of Sauce: The honey garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.

Side Dish Pairings: This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. Roasted potatoes or quinoa also complement the flavors of the chicken.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) to make this dish gluten-free.

Oil Temperature for Frying: Test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of bread or a wooden chopstick into the oil. If bubbles form around it and it sizzles, the oil is ready for frying.

Doubling the Sauce Recipe: You can double the honey garlic sauce recipe if you prefer extra sauce for serving or dipping.

Storage of Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Adjusting Spiciness: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of the chicken. Add more or less according to taste preferences.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1 breast

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can. Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts if you prefer.

Adjust cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the thighs.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

While frying provides the crispiest texture, you can bake the chicken in the oven if you prefer a healthier option.

Simply coat the chicken with oil or cooking spray and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Is there a substitute for honey in the honey garlic sauce?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes for honey if you prefer.

Keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

What side dishes pair well with crispy honey garlic chicken?

This chicken dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

You can also serve it with roasted potatoes or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

Is there a substitute for smoked paprika if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or a combination of paprika and a pinch of cumin for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) in place of regular flour and soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of bread or a wooden chopstick into the oil.

If bubbles form around the bread/chopstick and it starts to sizzle, the oil is ready for frying.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through for a healthier alternative to frying.

Can I double the honey garlic sauce recipe?

Yes, you can double the honey garlic sauce recipe if you prefer extra sauce for serving or dipping.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Can I use pre-made honey garlic sauce instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can use store-bought honey garlic sauce if you prefer.

Simply heat it up and toss the cooked chicken in the sauce.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the chicken?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of the chicken.

Add more or less according to your preference.