Crispy and succulent: a complete guide to honey chicken with chicken breast

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of honey chicken, a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes taste buds with its perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. This dish, featuring tender chicken breast coated in a luscious honey glaze, is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Join us on this culinary adventure as we guide you step-by-step on how to make honey chicken with chicken breast, ensuring a mouthwatering experience every time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Honey Glaze:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.

2. Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine all the ingredients for the honey glaze. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened.

4. Combine the Chicken and Glaze

Return the chicken pieces to the skillet. Pour the honey glaze over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the glaze has caramelized and the chicken is heated through.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds and serve over rice or noodles.

Variations

• Spicy Honey Chicken: Add a dash of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the honey glaze for a fiery kick.
• Orange Honey Chicken: Substitute orange juice and zest for the rice vinegar in the honey glaze.
• Ginger Honey Chicken: Add an extra teaspoon of minced ginger to the honey glaze for a more intense ginger flavor.

Tips

• For a crispier chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture.
• To prevent the chicken from sticking to the skillet, make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
• If the honey glaze becomes too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
• Serve the honey chicken immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast with other types of meat such as pork, beef, or shrimp.

2. What can I serve with honey chicken?

Honey chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, vegetables, or your favorite side dishes.

3. How can I store leftover honey chicken?

Store leftover honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

4. How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

5. Can I use honey substitute in this recipe?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey. However, the flavor may vary slightly.