Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Deliciously sticky and sweet, these Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect appetizer or main dish that will have everyone coming back for more!
These Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for parties or a family meal, they’re sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly sweet and savory glaze
- Quick and easy preparation
- Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners
A Flavorful Journey
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are more than just an appetizer; they are a culinary experience that combines the rich, sweet flavor of honey with the savory notes of garlic. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that is sure to impress your guests. This dish is versatile enough to be served at a dinner party or simply enjoyed on a weeknight, making it a staple in any home cook's repertoire.
The simplicity of this recipe belies its deliciousness. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. The crispy chicken coated in a sticky glaze not only satisfies your cravings but also showcases your cooking skills. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or alongside rice and vegetables for a complete meal, these chicken bites are bound to be a hit.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, or simply craving something comforting for dinner, Honey Garlic Chicken Bites fit the bill perfectly. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for sharing, and they are easy to serve with toothpicks or small skewers. Guests will love the interactive element of grabbing their own pieces, making any gathering feel more festive.
Additionally, this recipe can easily be adjusted to accommodate dietary preferences. For a healthier twist, consider baking the chicken bites instead of frying them. You can also make the sauce spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or incorporating a dash of Sriracha. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy these delightful bites, regardless of their taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Honey Garlic Chicken Bites is simple. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, to maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to reheat them in an oven rather than a microwave. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), spread the chicken bites on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken bites. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, season the cut chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in cornstarch until fully coated.
Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken bites in batches and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Add the fried chicken bites to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions
These Honey Garlic Chicken Bites can be served in a variety of ways to enhance your dining experience. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve them alongside rice or noodles, allowing the savory sauce to soak into the grains, creating a delightful flavor combination.
For a fun twist, consider making sliders with the chicken bites. Place them in mini burger buns with a drizzle of the honey garlic sauce and some crunchy slaw. This transforms an ordinary dish into a creative and appealing option for gatherings, ensuring that your guests will rave about your cooking.
Ingredient Variations
While the original recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste. Instead of using boneless chicken breasts, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or tempeh, which absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
You can also play around with the sauce by adding other ingredients like ginger for a zesty kick or a splash of orange juice for a citrusy flavor. These variations can elevate the dish and keep it exciting for repeat meals, making Honey Garlic Chicken Bites a versatile favorite in your kitchen.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the bites.
→ Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
→ How long can I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Deliciously sticky and sweet, these Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect appetizer or main dish that will have everyone coming back for more!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, season the cut chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in cornstarch until fully coated.
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken bites in batches and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In a separate saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Add the fried chicken bites to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g