Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken Recipe Perfect For Summer Bbqs
Summer barbecues are the perfect opportunity to bring friends and family together for delicious food and great company. One dish that is sure to impress your guests is the Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken. This recipe combines the mouthwatering crunch of crispy chicken with a sweet and sticky honey glaze, making it a standout option for any summer gathering. The vibrant flavors and appealing presentation will have everyone coming back for seconds.
In this article, you will learn how to make this delectable dish, including tips for achieving that perfect crunch and flavorful glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive in!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In another bowl, place the cornstarch. This will help create an extra crispy coating.
- In a third bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. This will act as the binder for the chicken.
- Take each piece of chicken and first coat it in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in cornstarch. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum crispiness.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- While the chicken is frying, prepare the honey glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Allow the glaze to simmer for approximately 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once all the chicken is fried, place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey glaze over the crispy chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the glazed chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a touch of color and flavor.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy. Enjoy your Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken at your summer BBQ!
Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken
To achieve the ideal crispy texture, it’s essential to use a combination of flour and cornstarch. The cornstarch creates an extra layer of crunch that makes each bite irresistible.
Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. A good test is to drop a small piece of chicken into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy honey chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing Asian slaw. These options complement the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken and create a well-rounded meal.
For a fun summer BBQ, set up a DIY taco or wrap station. Let your guests create their own crispy chicken wraps using lettuce leaves, tortillas, or rice paper. Add toppings like cilantro, avocado, and extra sauce for an interactive dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the crispy honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crispy texture, reheat it in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. This method will help restore the crunchiness that’s lost in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be aware that thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which enhances the overall dish.
2. Can I make the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey glaze a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.
3. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option or want to substitute soy sauce, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. Both alternatives provide a similar flavor profile.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! Just store the chicken separately from the glaze to keep it crispy until you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
The Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken is a must-try recipe for your summer BBQs. Its combination of crunchy chicken and a sweet honey glaze is sure to delight your guests. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to your summer gatherings. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this fantastic dish!
Enjoy your cooking and have a wonderful BBQ filled with laughter, good food, and great memories!
