How to Make Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: A Simple And Flavorful Dish!
Craving something savory, sweet, with just the right amount of kick? Spicy honey garlic chicken bites are your answer! This dish combines tender pieces of chicken with a glaze that’s perfectly balanced between the warmth of spices, the sweetness of honey, and the rich depth of garlic. Don’t worry; you don’t need to be a professional chef to pull this off. I’m here to guide you through each step to achieve delicious, mouth-watering chicken bites that will be a sure hit for any meal. Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s make sure you have everything you need. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, focusing more on the harmony of flavors than an extensive list of ingredients.
- Chicken: 1 lb (about 450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Seasonings for Chicken: Salt, black pepper, and a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper for that extra kick.
- Flour Mixture: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour combined with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and a pinch of salt and black pepper for dredging.
- Egg Wash: 2 eggs beaten, to help the flour stick to the chicken.
- For the Glaze: 1/4 cup honey, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or hot sauce, depending on your heat tolerance.
- Oil: For frying.
- Garnishing: Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika or cayenne pepper. This not only adds flavor but also helps the flour mixture stick better.
Step 2: Dredging Process
Place the all-purpose flour combined with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. In a separate bowl, have your beaten eggs ready. Dip each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then in the egg wash, and once more in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This double-dredging technique ensures a crispy exterior.
Step 3: Frying
In a large pan, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry until they’re golden brown and cooked through, usually about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Making the Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes or hot sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Once your sauce is ready, toss the fried chicken bites in it until they are fully coated. The sticky glaze should cling to every piece, offering a glossy and appealing look.
Step 6: Garnishing
Sprinkle some sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions over the top for that extra texture and a pop of color. They add a fresh contrast to the rich, spicy, and sweet flavors of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Spicy honey garlic chicken bites are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal. They also make great appetizers or party snacks, easily picked up with toothpicks.
Tips for Perfection
- Uniform Size: Try to cut the chicken into equally-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Adjusting Heat: Tailor the amount of chili flakes or hot sauce to suit your spice preference. Start with less; you can always add more.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. Too thick? A splash of water or more soy sauce can help balance it out.
- Cook in Batches: Prevent the chicken from getting soggy by frying in batches and ensuring the oil is hot each time.
Conclusion
Spicy honey garlic chicken bites are a delectable, easy-to-make dish that packs a flavor punch. They perfectly blend sweet, garlicky, and spicy tastes, satisfying various palates. Whether for a weekday dinner, a special occasion, or simply to satiate a craving, this dish proves that you don’t need complex ingredients or techniques to create something utterly delicious. So don your apron, and let’s make your kitchen the stage for these irresistibly spicy-sweet bites!