Description
Craving a perfect balance of sweet heat and savory comfort? This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken delivers crispy, golden chicken tossed in a sticky, bold glaze made with honey, cracked black pepper, garlic, and a hint of chili. It’s a mouthwatering dish that brings together irresistible flavor with satisfying crunch—great for dinner, game nights, or your next craving for something a little fiery and sweet.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
• 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp ketchup (adds tang and color)
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Optional Garnish & Sides:
• Sliced green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Steamed jasmine rice or noodles
• Steamed broccoli or stir-fried veggies
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
Place on a plate while you heat the oil.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat.
Once hot (350°F), fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Optional: Double fry for extra crispiness.
Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
If you want a thicker glaze, stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until glossy and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
Step 4: Toss the Chicken
Add the fried chicken to a large mixing bowl.
Pour the hot honey pepper sauce over the chicken and toss gently until evenly coated.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables.
Notes
Use Thighs for Juiciness – Thighs stay tender and flavorful.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches for even cooking.
Double Fry – For ultra-crispy chicken that holds up to the sauce.
Control the Heat – Add more or less red pepper flakes to taste.
Sauce Last – Toss chicken in sauce just before serving for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Fusion