What To Know
- Traditionally made with chicken thighs, this recipe offers a healthier alternative using chicken breast, resulting in a lean and juicy dish that’s equally delicious.
- Making honey chicken with chicken breast is a culinary adventure that yields a delectable dish.
- Yes, you can make the honey sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Honey chicken is a beloved dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of honey, soy sauce, and ginger. Traditionally made with chicken thighs, this recipe offers a healthier alternative using chicken breast, resulting in a lean and juicy dish that’s equally delicious. Follow this comprehensive guide to master the art of making honey chicken with chicken breast and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Honey Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, sesame oil, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the fried chicken pieces to the skillet and pour the honey sauce over them. Toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish the honey chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips
- For a crispier chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch and flour before frying.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the sauce to your desired sweetness.
- If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute white vinegar.
- Serve the honey chicken with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the honey sauce for a kick.
- Orange Honey Chicken: Replace the rice vinegar with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Pineapple Honey Chicken: Add 1 cup of chopped pineapple chunks to the skillet along with the chicken.
Final Thoughts: Honey Chicken Mastery
Making honey chicken with chicken breast is a culinary adventure that yields a delectable dish. By following these step-by-step instructions and experimenting with variations, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this recipe will guide you towards honey chicken mastery.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
Q: How do I store leftover honey chicken?
A: Store leftover honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make the honey sauce in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the honey sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before using.
Q: What side dishes go well with honey chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, and stir-fried greens are all great side dishes for honey chicken.
Q: Can I freeze honey chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze honey chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
