Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken For Meal Prep Enthusiasts
Are you tired of the same old meal prep ideas? Looking for something that is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken! This dish combines the crunch of crispy chicken with a sweet and savory honey sauce, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal prep. It’s versatile, easy to make, and sure to please the whole family.
Meal prepping can often feel monotonous, but with recipes like this, you can bring excitement back into your routine. This Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to fuel your day. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil for frying
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they get crispy when cooked.
- In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be your breading mixture.
- Coat each piece of chicken in the breading mixture, ensuring they are well covered. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken.
- Once the pan is heated, add the chicken in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook in batches. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger to create the honey sauce.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the honey sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the crispy chicken back to the skillet and toss it in the honey sauce until fully coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- This Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with steamed broccoli and brown rice for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works for Meal Prep
This Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep for several reasons. First, it stores well in the refrigerator, maintaining its flavor and texture throughout the week. You can portion it into containers with your favorite side dishes, making it easy to grab and go.
Secondly, this recipe is flexible. You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you prefer a different protein. The honey sauce can also be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer it sweeter or spicier. This versatility means you can create a variety of meals with just one recipe, keeping your week interesting.
Tips for the Best Crispy Honey Chicken
To achieve the perfect crispy texture, it is crucial to ensure your chicken is adequately coated in the flour mixture. A light layer works best, as too much flour can result in a heavy crust. Make sure to shake off any excess flour before cooking.
For an added crunch, consider double-dipping the chicken. Dip it in the egg wash after coating it with flour, and then re-coat it in flour before frying. This extra step will provide an even crispier finish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Brown rice or quinoa
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Stir-fried vegetables for an added crunch
Feel free to mix and match to create balanced meals that will keep you satisfied and energized.
Storing and Reheating
To store your Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat, you can use a microwave or an oven. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour and soy sauce with gluten-free alternatives. Look for gluten-free flour blends and tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free soy sauce option.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat to the honey sauce, consider mixing in some red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
3. Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with tofu, shrimp, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different proteins will require varying times to cook through.
4. How long does the honey chicken last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken will last for up to four days. Be sure to cool it completely before storing.
In conclusion, Healthy Asian Style Crispy Honey Chicken is a meal prep game-changer. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it also offers flexibility and ease for your weekly meal planning. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a dish that your entire family will love, keeping your meal prep exciting and varied. Enjoy your cooking!
