Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken Recipe has become a firm favorite in my kitchen. The combination of sweetness from honey, a spicy kick from the chilies, and the crunchiness of the chicken is simply irresistible. Whenever I want to impress my family or friends, I turn to this delightful dish as it never fails to produce happy faces around the dinner table.
The Inspiration Behind My Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken
Years ago, I stumbled upon a lovely little restaurant while on holiday. I ordered the Honey Chilli Chicken, and it was a game changer. The balance of flavors was something I wanted to replicate back home. After several experiments and some tweaks, I finally crafted my version that I am proud to share.
Ingredients for Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken
To make Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
Chicken:
- 500g boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika or chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Oil for frying
Honey Chilli Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Spring onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken
The first step to achieving that crispy exterior for Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken starts with the chicken itself. In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give that extra crunch we all love.
As you prepare the mixture, dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg. Then, coat it well in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour, as you want just a thin layer on each piece.
Frying the Chicken to Perfection
In a deep pan, heat enough oil to cover the chicken pieces. A good way to test if the oil is ready is to drop a small amount of the batter into it; if it sizzles and rises, you’re good to go.
Carefully fry the chicken in batches. Don’t crowd the pan. Each piece should have room to cook evenly. Fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Using a slotted spoon, take the chicken out and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Making the Honey Chilli Sauce
While the chicken is frying, I often prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, soy sauce, chili sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir gently until the mixture is warm and combined.
Cooking it gently allows the flavors to develop without burning any ingredients. Once the sauce is ready, you can taste it and add more chili sauce if you want extra heat.
Tossing the Chicken in Sauce
Once the chicken is crispy and the sauce is ready, it’s time for the magic to happen. In a large mixing bowl, add the fried chicken pieces and pour the honey chilli sauce over them. Gently toss until each piece is well coated.
Be careful not to break the crispy coating as you mix. If you want an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds into the mix to add a nutty touch.
Garnishing for Presentation
When serving Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken, presentation is key. I like to plate the chicken and sprinkle chopped spring onions on top. They add a pop of color and freshness that balances the dish wonderfully.
The honey glaze creates a sticky layer that makes the chicken visually inviting. I can’t tell you the number of times my guests have been mesmerized by how good this dish looks.
Serving Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken
Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken is versatile enough for different serving options. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Pair it with stir-fried vegetables for a healthier twist.
- Use lettuce leaves for wrapping, creating a fresh and crunchy bite.
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you can store them properly for later. Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It lasts for about 2-3 days.
To reheat, I suggest using an oven to maintain crispiness. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake for about 10-15 minutes until it’s heated through and crunchy again.
Tips for Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken
Here are some tips to ensure you have an amazing dish of Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken each time:
- Use fresh chicken for the best flavor.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that irresistible crunch.
- For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying.
- Adjust the spice levels in the sauce according to your taste.
This dish is more than just a recipe for me; it represents cheerful dinners and happy gatherings. I often find myself reminiscing about that little restaurant and the flavorful meal that inspired me.
Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken can bring smiles to your table, just as it does at mine. It’s a dish that encourages sharing and joy, and I hope it becomes a lovely addition to your family meals.