Honey Garlic Chicken Delight (Printer-Friendly Version)

Tender chicken bites glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce and aromatic spices.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1/4 cup cornstarch
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1 large egg, beaten
06 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

→ Honey Garlic Sauce

07 - 1/2 cup honey
08 - 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
09 - 1/4 cup water
10 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
11 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
13 - 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
14 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
15 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
16 - 2 tablespoons cold water

→ Garnish

17 - Sesame seeds (optional)
18 - Chopped green onions (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, toss chicken cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Pour beaten egg over chicken and mix thoroughly to bind the coating.
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Arrange chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook 5 to 7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and drain on paper towels.
03 - In a medium saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
04 - Whisk cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly add slurry to simmering sauce, whisking to prevent lumps. Continue simmering 2 to 3 minutes until sauce coats the back of a spoon.
05 - Add cooked chicken to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes to meld flavors.
06 - Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Use low sodium soy sauce for better salt control. For gluten-free variation, substitute with tamari and verify rice vinegar is gluten-free.
02 - Double-frying chicken enhances crispiness. After first fry, let rest briefly, then fry again for 1-2 minutes.
03 - The dish can be prepared ahead by making sauce and storing separately for up to 3 days refrigerated.