Honey garlic chicken bites are a delightful dish that combines the sweet, sticky goodness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. These tasty morsels are not only easy to prepare but also make for a great appetizer or a main course when served with rice or vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these honey garlic chicken bites are sure to please!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (optional, for thickening)
Method
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken bites in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and ground ginger. Bring to a simmer.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Coat the Chicken Bites:
- Once the sauce is ready, add the fried chicken bites to the saucepan, tossing to coat evenly in the honey garlic sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve the honey garlic chicken bites hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired. They can be served on their own, with toothpicks as an appetizer, or over rice as a main dish.
Variations & Tips
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken bites instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken bites on a lined baking sheet, and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy variation.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian take on this dish.
- Storage: Leftover honey garlic chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Honey garlic chicken bites are a fantastic option for anyone looking to impress guests or enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. With their irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients, these chicken bites are bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful taste of honey and garlic in every bite!